Damien Thompson is wanted for an offense that occurred on December 31, 2025.
The Patrol Division was able to secure an arrest warrant for his as a result of the incident. The following is the charge and bond amount associated with Damien Thompson:
• One count of filing or maintaining false public records with a surety bond amount of $1,500.
Please get in touch with Detective Matthew Hicks (318-639-7776) or Detective Brandon Curry (318-268-7044) of the Minden Police Department with information regarding the whereabouts of Damien Thompson.
Any information will be strictly confidential.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Jermaine Wallace releases the game-winning shot over Iowa’s Adam Haluska on March 17, 2006, to lift Northwestern State to a 64-63 upset in the NCAA Tournament. Photo: Doug Daniels
NATCHITOCHES — Twenty years to the day after Heflin native and current Lakeside basketball coach Jermaine Wallace crafted one of March Madness’ signature moments, the “Demons of Destiny” will be in the spotlight Tuesday night.
A free reception and program will feature former Northwestern State head coach Mike McConathy and members of the 2005-06 Demon basketball team during the “Cinderella Wears Purple” 20th anniversary celebration at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum from 6-7:30 p.m. on March 17. The museum is located at 800 Front Street in downtown Natchitoches.
The 20-year celebration occurs on the anniversary of the St. Patrick’s Day 2006 Demons’ 64-63 NCAA Tournament victory against third-seeded Iowa on Wallace’s last-second 3-pointer. The event is free and open to the public. There will be a reception followed by the program, which will be moderated by longtime Northwestern sports information director and current special assistant to the president Doug Ireland.
Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with the panelists and ask questions during the panel.
Wallace’s corner jumper over the outstretched arm of Iowa’s Adam Haluska with 0.05 left and capped a remarkable Northwestern rally from 17 points down with 8:29 remaining in the game.
Clifton Lee tallied 16 points in a 20-6 Demon run to cut the Hawkeyes’ lead to 60-57 with less than two minutes to play, helping set up what many analysts still consider one of the most memorable moments in NCAA Tournament history.
Fittingly for a team who embodied its coach’s mantra of “the MVP of our team is our team,” Northwestern’s final sequence came off of an offensive rebound as Wallace grabbed the carom off a missed Kerwin Forges jumper, retreated to the left corner and buried the biggest shot in program history.
Tagged by then-Demon Sports Network radio announcer and current ESPN+ play-by-play voice Patrick Netherton as the “Demons of Destiny,” Northwestern’s improbable victory ignited a storm of national media attention for the program and the university that maintains today. Wallace’s shot is a staple of NCAA Tournament highlight reels and was voted the 2006 Pontiac Game Changing Performance award for the tournament. Fan voting resulted in a $105,000 general scholarship donation by General Motors/Pontiac to the university.
The ending was included in a Buffalo Wild Wings commercial and even referenced on a CBS soap opera.
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, March 16:
BAMBURG, JUSTIN 100156 Aggravated Battery
CAPERS, TORRY JOVON 99834 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
CHAMP, DAVION 99591 Theft Under $1,000 Restitution owed- $600, plus $90 = $690
COLLIER, KASEY JO 98895A Aggravated Burglary Restitution owed to the victim – $4,250, plus $637.50 fee = $4,887.50 total
EASON, DESTINY SUEANNE 100206 Theft Under $1,000
FARLEY, ALICIA KAY 100223 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE 100101 Possession of Schedule II CDS
FLOURNOY, RAVI ANDRELAVERE T015426 Improper Equipment (License Plate) T015426A Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
GILL, D’MARCUS A. 99479-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS 99479-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS 99479-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS 99479-CT.4 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS Please make sure forfeiture of $520 IN US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.
HARPER, JOSEPH ALVA 99705 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)
HENIX, COREY DONTE 98427-CT.1 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform Cds Law 98427-CT.2 Aggravated Criminal Damage To Property Restitution owed- $3,015.20, plus $452.28 fee = $3,467.48 total
HOWARD, JEDRICK K. 100225 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
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 Defense Motion to Reduce Bond, total bond $260,000
LANE, SARAH JANE 99543 Simple Burglary
MANNING, JAMAREA JAYVEON 100117 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
MEJIA-REYES, RACHEL ELIZABETH 100164 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
MOORE, TIMOTHY EDWARD 98543A Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things (Over $25,000)
MURPHY, STUART LAWSON INCOMING Possession of a Schedule I CDS – Ecstasy INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense INCOMING Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
NATION, CARLEE 100210A Accessory After The Fact
RHODES, MICHAEL 87148-CT.1 Attempted Attempted Felony Theft 87148A Illegal Possession Of Stolen Things
RODGERS, JOSEPH R 98895A Aggravated Burglary Restitution owed to the victim – $4,250, plus $637.50 fee = $4,887.50 total
STERLING, JASMINE 100075 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
WILLIAMS, DANIEL CHASE 98281 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm
YOUNG, JOSHUA SCOTT 100227 Aggravated Obstruction Of A Highway Of Commerce
Do you enjoy meeting new people and greeting old friends? Are you familiar with north Webster Parish?
If you said yes, then you may be perfect for an account executive’s position with the Webster Parish Journal in the Springhill to Cotton Valley areas. You don’t have to fit a particular profile, you just need to be as passionate about spreading the news as those with whom you will be working.
WPJ subscriptions are – and always will be – free. We depend on businesses and advertising to help us meet our goals and keep the public informed. That’s where you may be able to help. We need an outgoing individual to sell advertising for WPJ – the fastest growing publication in Webster Parish.
Contact us at wpjnewsla@gmail.com, if this describes you.
There are a lot of things I take seriously as a mother. Things like safety, manners, honesty… Raising kind humans who love Jesus and know how to load a dishwasher.
But if you ask my daughters what the most powerful force in our house is… they would probably say lavender soap.
Let me back up a little for those of you who might be new around here…
I’m a divorced mom with 50/50 custody of my girls. That means on the weeks I have them, life runs on a pretty tight schedule. Between my full-time job, part-time job and their school (and now practice) schedules, we realistically get about three hours together in the evenings during the week.
And those three hours? They disappear faster than a McDonald’s nugget around my kids. It usually goes something like this…homework, track or softball practice, cooking dinner, eating dinner, cleaning up dinner then bath time!
So, that brings me back to the lavender…
Ever since they were babies, I’ve used lavender during our nighttime routine. At first it was lavender baby wash, then lavender lotion, and now we’ve graduated to a good old-fashioned bar of lavender soap sitting in the shower.
It’s supposed to be calming, relaxing, sleep-inducing…
Apparently my girls have taken that information and turned it into a full-blown scientific conclusion: lavender soap is basically liquid NyQuil.
In their minds, once that lavender touches your skin, it’s over. Game finished. Lights out.
Which is funny … because during the week, when a set bedtime is non-negotiable, they’ll drag their feet into the bathroom like they’re headed to a prison sentence.
But on the weekends I have them? Oh honey, it’s a whole different story. Because let me just say this right now before the parenting police arrive … Every other weekend at my house, we do the most. We are off the clock – off work and out of school – which means NO BEDTIME!
Judge me if you want, but when you’re sharing your kids’ childhood with a custody schedule, you learn real quick that time becomes sacred. I’m squeezing every drop out of the hours I get.
We stay up late and watch movies with lots of snacks, cuddles and laughter! That is quality time that I guard fiercely. Which brings us to this past Friday night… and the lavender soap scandal.
Kameron, my four-year-old, had already finished her bath and gotten dressed. Now, Kameron has a small habit we’re working through. She will exit the bathroom like a tornado victim. Water still in the tub, towel on the floor and washcloth … honestly there’s no telling!
So I walked in there to clean up and immediately noticed something was… off. The tub water was still sitting there and it was bright blue … like bright blue.
I just stood there staring at it for a second before calling out: “Kameron … what did you use in this bathtub?”
She walked in, completely calm. “Oh … the soap.”
Now listen. There is a perfectly good bar of lavender soap sitting right next to the tub. The same soap she has used approximately one thousand times in her life. But then I spotted the real culprit sitting on the edge of the counter … the Dawn dish soap. The same Dawn I had used two days earlier to wash the dog.
I looked at her and said, “Kameron … why on earth did you use the Dawn?! The soap is right there!”
Without missing a beat (and with the seriousness of someone explaining a life-or-death situation) she looked me straight in the eyes and said: “I ain’t using that lavender stuff… it’s Friday!”
So, I say all of that to say … I now have a weekday soap and a weekend soap.
I hope you all have a great (lavender free) weekend!
(Paige Gurgainers is a mom of three girls, digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)
Available through LaMa Rescue Center, Sarepta: Macy, 6-year-old (estimate) spayed female Chihuahua mix; 25 lbs.
Macy came from a sad situation — we took 5 dogs from a home that desperately needed help. Relatives and friends kept dumping dogs on an older woman who was unable to afford them. They took advantage of her kindness … and we are so glad we were able to help her.
Macy is the perfect age (in my humble opinion!) Chill with plenty of spunk left. She’s ready for a sunny spot on your couch and will make a great companion. Great with other dogs.
Macy is up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines, microchipped & on flea/tick prevention. She is heart worm positive but has completed treatment. She will make a complete recovery, so do not let the HW+ status deter you! Consistent veterinary history of HW preventative is required to be considered for adoption. I will be checking!!!
We do not cat test at our shelter. All dogs are dog-friendly unless otherwise noted. Please only commit to adoption if you are willing to give the dog time to adjust to a home life – some dogs have been in our shelter for over a year.
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.”
Well we got about 3 inches of rain at my house. It was much needed. The burn ban is over for now and Randy can start burning things around the yard again. It is his favorite thing to do.
Most people that planted potatoes should have some coming up by now. We got in our first big load of vegetables yesterday, so we are watching the weather pretty close. We don’t need a freeze of any kind. Mostly tomato and pepper plants were in this load.
There is a lot to do now in your yard or garden. Clean out your beds, put a weed preventer out and cover with pine straw. A good weed preventer is the Herbicide Granules and Turf and Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper. The Herbicide Granules is Treflan, and can be used in flower beds and vegetable gardens. Don’t forget that corn is a weed to Treflan. Always read the label. There is product called Grass Killer to use if you don’t get the pre emerge out. It mixes 1 oz of the grass killer with 1 oz of crop oil per gallon. Again corn is a weed.
Seeds that need to be planted shortly include corn, green beans, and pinto beans. The favorite sweet corn by far is the G90. It makes great corn on the cob, and also off the cob. Add lots of butter and you will be in corn heaven. Beans that are popular are contender, blue lake, and rattlesnake. Mix snap beans with your new potatoes and you have a delicious dinner.
Watch the weather and enjoy gardening. It is the best time of the year.
(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)
FOR SALE: Shongaloo 2655 Rodney Martin Road Shongaloo, LA 71072 $350,000 Extremely well-maintained and spacious country home on over 5 acres with the potential to buy the adjoining 48 acres! This beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home boasts tall cathedral ceilings, large utility room, kitchen and pantry, new HVAC, plus more! Call your local agent to schedule a showing today!
Listing Agent: Laura Blackwell GreenStar Realty, LLC 318-355-5573 410 Olive Street Monroe, LA 71201
The tongue can no man tame. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:8 (KJV)
Even though the tongue is a small part of the human body, it can do a lot of damage when used improperly.
Proverbs 18:21 (KJV) Death and life are in the power of the tongue: And they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.
Our words can affect us and others in a positive or negative way. The tongue can be used to hurt or destroy or to build up and heal.
The words we speak can have a powerful impact on others.
Are we speaking negative or positive? Blessings or cursing? Good or evil? Gossip or The Gospel? Hope or Defeat? Encouragement or discouragement?
Only God can tame our tongues. We can’t tame our own tongues. God gave us two ears and one mouth. “To listen more and speak less.”
We should not only listen to respond but listen to understand with empathy and compassion.
The words we speak do not only affect us but others as well.
Start speaking “All Is Well,” no matter what it looks like! Speak positive in a negative situation. God does the impossible when we trust and have faith in Him.
~The Power Of The Tongue~
Speak peace in the midst of trouble. Speak love in the midst of hate. Speak kindness in the midst of rudeness.
The words we speak can either help us or hinder us.
We should speak the truth in love and not in a harsh way! Jesus spoke the truth with authority in love.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Speak positive words (The Word of God) in a negative situation!
1) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ( Philippians 4:13)
2) Nothing is impossible with God. (Matthew 19:26)
3) No Weapon Formed Against You Shall Prosper. (Isaiah 54:17)
4) We Walk By Faith and not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
5)Nay, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. ( Romans 8:37)
Thank God for His Word and Holy Spirit, who helps us. We are not perfect. Therefore, we need His help daily.
There are consequences from the words we speak.
Jesus says in Matthew 12:36
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
Only God can tame our tongue
Lord, help us. We all need you to tame our tongues so that we be mindful of what comes out of our mouths.
Help us to think before we talk and not to be busybodies in everyone else’s business talking to much spreading negativity and sowing discord.
Prayer: Lord, we thank you for your grace and mercy. Search our hearts and remove anything that’s not like you. Forgive us for our sins known and unknown. Tame our tongues, and we repent for everything we have done and said that was an offense against you, Lord, and our sisters and brothers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Be Encouraged!!
(LaTina DeLoach, is a devoted wife and mother who shares these words in hopes of uplifting those who read what God writes through her.)
Livestock showing has long been a cornerstone of 4H programming, and Webster Parish proudly carries that tradition forward today. The Webster Parish Fair traces its origins to 1906, when B.F. Griffith—who operated a quarter horse racing track on the grounds—formed the Webster Parish Fair Association to establish an official parish fair. Over the years, the fairgrounds grew into a hub for community life, hosting rodeos, political gatherings, kid’s day events, and the annual Webster Parish Fair. Thank you to the Minden PressHerald for providing historical information. Today, the fair is held annually during the first week of October and continues to draw residents and visitors alike. While the carnival brings excitement and entertainment, the true highlight remains watching Webster Parish 4H members proudly exhibit their livestock projects, including rabbits, poultry, beef and dairy cattle, swine, lambs, and goats.
Local youth exhibitors have opportunities to participate in: Webster Parish Fair The State Fair of Louisiana The Northwest District Livestock Show The LSU AgCenter State Livestock Show To participate in the livestock program, youth must be certified members of either 4H or FFA and must meet the official possession dates for their animals. A possession date is the deadline by which an exhibitor must own or take physical possession of the animal to be eligible for competition. These dates are set by the governing body of each livestock show. Tentative Possession Dates for the 2026 Webster Parish Fair
(Dates are tentative and subject to change.)
Market Steers: June 10
Lambs: July 10
Goats: July 10
Commercial Heifers: July 10
Dairy Cows: July 10
Breeding Beef: July 10
Rabbits: August 1
Exhibition Poultry: August 1
Swine: August 10
Webster Parish 4H Livestock Club In addition to participating in livestock shows, Webster Parish 4H offers a Livestock Club for youth interested in learning more about raising and exhibiting animals. The club meets in the evenings throughout the year and focuses on livestock care, showmanship skills, and industry education. Topics covered so far this year include: • Proper livestock care while at shows • The poultry industry • Animal health Upcoming sessions will include: • The beef industry • A livestock interest day (date to be announced) Contact 4-H Livestock Agent, John Monzingo at 318-371-1371 or jmonzingo@agcenter.lsu.edu to learn how to get started.
Sunny, with a high near 72. South wind around 5 mph.
Friday Night
Clear, with a low around 48. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 76. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 57.
Sunday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 81.
Sunday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m., then a slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.
Monday
Partly sunny, with a high near 53.
Monday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33.
*Information provided by National Weather Service.
10:45 a.m. until noon, Veteran’s Meet and Greet with meal at Webster Parish Council on Aging, 1482 Sheppard St., Minden.
March 14
7 p.m., Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building, Springhill. Special guests will be Rhonda and Byron Delaware.
March 17
6 p.m. Women of Courage Ladies Night, Minden Civic Center, Angel Lee, special guest.
March 19
6 p.m. Men of Courage, Minden Civic Center, Codie Smith, special guest.
March 20
7 p.m., Malpass Brothers Show, CAC building, Springhill. Tickets are $ 25.00 for general admission and $ 30.00 for reserved seats. You can purchase tickets at Express Tax Title & License at 101 N Main Street or call (318) 539-2750.
March 24
7 p.m. 84th Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala. Minden Civic Center, Minden, La. Tickets: greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala.
March 26
2 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group, Minden Medical Center cafeteria, first floor. Call 318-371-5646 to register.
March 28
11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., Easter EGGstravaganza, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.
3 p.m. (doors open); 4 p.m. (games begin) LaMa Animal Rescue Spring Fling Game Night, Springhill Civic Center, 101 Machen Dr., Springhill.
3 until 5 p.m. Easter Egg Hunt at Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 HWY. 80, Minden. There will be food, fun and fellowship. Everyone is invited to attend. For more information, call 318-344-4919.
April 9
5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music with Cynthia Sandidge, food trucks, family friendly fun.
6 p.m. UCAP Hungerfest, Dessert Auction Fundraiser, soup and crackers for meal. Minden First Methodist, 903 Broadway. All proceeds benefit United Christian Assistance Program. Buy tickets at door or from UCAP.
6 p.m. Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, Springhill Civic Center.
April 16
10:30 a.m. 2026 Light of Hope, Volunteers for Youth Justice CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Program. Minden Civic Center.
April 18
9 a.m. until noon, Arms Around Autism, Autism Acceptance Walk, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. Vendors, bounce house, resources, sensory-friendly kid zone.
9 a.m. until 3 p.m. (rain or shine) Trails and Trellises garden tour. Tickets purchased in advance for $10, $15 at any garden. Visit www.phlmg.com or facebook.com/PHLMG for gardens on tour and ticket purchase.
Phonetic: /brəsk/ Part of Speech: Adjective Definition abrupt or offhand in speech or manner. “she could be brusque and impatient” Similar: curt, abrupt, blunt
The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of March 6-12. Civil suits are public record.
March 6 Jakob Franks vs. Katelyn Lackey, custody. Safeway Insurance Co. vs. John Hayes, Jackie G. Murray Jr., subrogation.
March 9 Delores Ronnie Montgomery, succession over $125K. Richard A. Roberds vs. Chelsea Laine Fort, divorce. Brittany Bird vs. Jason Jenkins, protective order. Dawn Calhoun vs. Darren Sparks, protective order. Martha Blance Hollis Alexander, succession under $125K w/petition to probate.
March 10 Karen Denys Marr vs. Charles W. Anderson III, damages. William Earle Bullock, succession under $125K. Leonard Doy Miller, succession over $125K w/petition to probate.
March 11 Tyrese J. Lane vs. Kiariana Henry, custody. Torris McGraw vs. Nolan Shofner, personal injury. NCB Management Services Inc., vs. Jarel Richardson, monies due.
March 12 Capital One vs. Nathaniel T. Holland, monies due. Michael Williams vs. Brenda Williams, divorce. Ann Marie Humphrey vs. Leslie Dale Humphrey, divorce. Sharon Cobb, succession under $125K. PennyMac Loan Services LLC vs. Kenneth Lane Penton Jr., executory process.
Alice Fay Head March 11, 1941 – March 10, 2026 Springhill Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, March 14, 2026, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill. Memorial service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.
Claude Smithe Seabaugh January 9, 1941 — March 10, 2026 Haughton/Minden Graveside service: 11 a.m. Friday, March 13, 2026, Mt. Zion Cemetery, Minden.
Patsy Ann Thomas Gryder May 7, 1937 — March 7, 2026 Shongaloo/Homer Visitation: 10 a.m. until noon Monday, March 16, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Homer. Graveside service: 1 p.m. Union Springs Cemetery, Shongaloo.
Dorothy Faye Hartman June 23, 1944 — March 2, 2026 Bossier City Visitation (only): 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Airline Dr., Bossier City.
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.)
Residents struggle with degraded infrastructure, limited police resources, and stalled community projects as municipal oversight is questioned.
By Tiffany Flournoy tiffanyflournoy1@gmail.com
CULLEN, La. — Residents of the Town of Cullen pressed their elected officials Monday over what they described as a community unraveling: foul-smelling, discolored water under repeated boil advisories, deteriorating streets and culverts, overgrown properties, illegible street signs, a struggling police force, and gaps in municipal oversight.
In the small Webster Parish town of roughly 800 people, these issues highlight ongoing concerns about compliance, infrastructure decay and the ability of local leaders to maintain essential services for residents.
To hear residents describe it, the town is literally falling apart. They allege things are not safe in the town.
The concerns surfaced during the town’s first town hall meeting — a forum officials said was created to promote transparency and allow residents to engage directly with local leadership.
The discussion touched on several core municipal responsibilities — including drinking water safety, road maintenance, damaged culverts and police protection — issues residents said have increasingly become a source of concern in the community. And this is just a fraction of their complaints.
• Water quality issues
Repeated boil advisory concerns were addressed during the meeting, along with questions about water discoloration and odor.
One resident described persistent problems with the town’s water supply, saying the water smelled like feces.
“My water smells like doo-doo every day,” the resident said. “Even with the filters that I put on my shower head, it leaves brown rust in the sink and the tub — and anything you run water in.”
Mayor Terry Hoof said discolored water should be reported so town workers can investigate the issue.
“If the water is brown, we need to check it,” Hoof said, adding that employees would be sent to examine the problem.
Residents also showed concern about the town not having properly certified operators managing the wastewater treatment plant. One resident said their understanding is that the facility requires multiple certifications to operate properly and expressed concern that current employees do not hold those credentials, though one worker is reportedly attending training.
Communication about boil advisories was another point of frustration.
“I didn’t even know there was a boil advisory until someone told me at church,” a resident of that town said. “I don’t do Facebook.”
“People shouldn’t have to find out by word of mouth,” another resident of that town said.
That resident urged officials to consider hiring a certified contractor to oversee the system until staff members complete their training, saying someone with proper credentials should be monitoring the system to help ensure the safety of the water residents — and their pets — rely on daily.
Town officials said boil advisory notices were posted to the town’s Facebook page, website and local television news stations. Officials said notifying local news media outlets about boil advisories is required by law.
Hoof said water samples are collected daily and sent to a laboratory for testing. He also said outside assistance has been brought in to help evaluate the system, but no detailed plan of action was provided.
The exchange highlighted broader concerns among residents about how essential services are being managed in the town. Several residents said repeated infrastructure problems, boil advisories and unanswered questions about system oversight have left many feeling they must rely on their own efforts — rather than the town — to stay informed about potential public health issues.
• Infrastructure concerns
Residents also raised concerns about multiple infrastructure issues throughout the town.
Among them were deteriorating streets, illegible street signs — including one on Nelson Street — and water leaks running across roadways. Residents also pointed to damaged culverts in parts of town, which they said have contributed to drainage problems and roadway deterioration.
Residents further noted that the town’s payment drop box is not accessible for people with disabilities. One resident noted that handicap accessibility is required by law.
Hoof said the town would work to address the issue and look for an alternative solution.
• Police staffing questions
Concerns then turned to the police department, including allegations the town does not have enough officers to provide adequate protection. Hoof declined to discuss the matter.
“It’s a legal matter we’re going through right now,” Hoof said. “We can’t discuss that.”
According to the mayor, the town attorney contacted officials shortly before the meeting and advised them not to discuss any police-related matters.
Residents continued to express concern about whether the town is able to provide basic municipal services.
“One of the expectations of a town is to provide water service, sewer service and protection,” a resident said.
• Compliance and funding
Residents also questioned whether the town has pursued grants or other funding opportunities to improve community the town, including the town’s only park.
One resident framed the issue as part of a broader concern about the Town of Cullen’s direction and resources.
“We don’t even have enough policemen in the town to patrol, to make sure the kids are safe, the community is safe,” the resident said. “What can we do in order to bring up the Town of Cullen? To bring the community back together as a whole?”
Mayor Terry Hoof responded that progress would require a collective effort.
“My answer on that — it’s gonna take everybody,” Hoof said.
The resident acknowledged that point but suggested leadership must set the tone.
“Well, we know that,” the resident said. “But it has to start somewhere. It has to start at the head, because everything starts at the head and trickles down. Right or wrong?”
“That’s true too,” Hoof replied. “I can only do what I can do.”
The resident then asked directly whether the town had secured any grants during Hoof’s time in office to support community improvements.
“So you mean to tell me in nine years you haven’t gotten any grants for anything — to try to build a park or anything for the kids?” he asked.
Hoof said the issue stems from the town not meeting certain requirements needed to qualify for some funding opportunities.
“The reason why some of the grants we hadn’t got was because the town had not been in compliance,” the mayor said.
At that point, a voice from somewhere in the audience could be heard murmuring, “Whose fault is that?”
The resident continued pressing the issue.
“So whose problem is that — that the town is not in compliance?” he asked.
Hoof responded.
“It’s nobody’s problem until we get it done,” Hoof said.
The resident then asked how that would happen.
“With the auditors and with the CPAs that we got working on it now,” Hoof said.
“So we have to start working on it now?” the resident asked.
“We been working on it,” Hoof replied.
“Nine years?” the resident asked.
“Yeah,” Hoof said. “It was like that before I even got here.”
During the exchange, the mayor appeared to suggest the town’s compliance issues predated his administration, indicating he inherited the problems before taking office. A measure some individuals residing in the town refute.
• Community park concerns
Residents expressed concern about the condition of the town’s only park, saying it needs revitalizing.
“We don’t have anything for our kids,” one resident said. “Then we wonder why kids are out doing other things.”
Residents discussed past efforts to improve the park, including fundraising attempts and possible partnerships aimed at revitalizing the space.
• Financial strain on town services
The Town of Cullen is also grappling with unpaid bills and other financial challenges affecting some municipal operations.
Weeks ago, Cullen Police Chief Fannie Rankin confirmed the police department has been heavily affected by the town’s financial woes. In recent meetings, Rankin said she has not been provided a police department budget since taking office in 2025 despite requesting one.
At times, the department has struggled to fuel a pair of patrol vehicles. Officers have also been sharing a borrowed police radio and have at times been forced to rely on personal mobile phones to conduct municipal police business, such as communicating with dispatch at the parish sheriff’s office, which now handles the town’s dispatch services.
The financial strain has contributed to broader concerns among residents about whether the town has the resources needed to maintain basic services.
• Proposed water rate increase
Last month, the town approved a proposed ordinance to amend its water rates.
The adjustment would raise monthly water rates by nearly $6, according to town officials.
• Town hall meetings planned quarterly
The meeting was the first in a series of town hall gatherings intended to allow residents to speak directly with town leadership.
According to a statement read during the meeting, the sessions are designed to promote transparency, improve communication and encourage community involvement.
Officials emphasized that town hall meetings are separate from regular council meetings and are meant to be informal discussions rather than decision-making sessions.
No official votes, actions or resolutions can be taken during the meetings.
Participants are limited to three minutes to speak and must wait to be recognized before addressing officials. Personal attacks, disruptive behavior and inappropriate language are not allowed.
Issues requiring additional review will be documented by the town clerk, with follow-up responses provided directly to the resident voicing the concern, according to town officials.
The town plans to hold the meetings quarterly at Town Hall on the second Monday of each quarter at 6 p.m., with upcoming meetings scheduled for June 8, Sept. 15 and Dec. 14. Meeting announcements will be posted on the town’s website, at Town Hall and on social media.
Thanks to recent rains, Webster Parish Police Jury and Webster Parish Fire Chiefs Association have lifted the burn ban that has been in place since February 24. According to police jury President Jim Bonsall, “… there is no longer a threat of dangerous fire conditions for the parish.”
BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana has been named a national standard for how schools and school systems are graded. ExcelinEd recognized Louisiana as the state exemplar for school and system accountability in its 2026 Education Policy Playbook. The playbook praises Louisiana for its transparent and rigorous approach that drives student outcomes and helps schools continuously improve.
“Louisiana is a national leader in education reform and those efforts are reflected in our academic progress,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “These shifts will push Louisiana students to greater heights, while the public receives a transparent look at school quality.”
Setting a National Standard
Created by the national education nonprofit ExcelinEd, the 2026 Education Policy Playbook is an annual report designed to help state leaders implement policies that improve student achievement. The guide names Louisiana as the model for school accountability, which is how states measure and share school performance.
“Louisiana has set a national standard with its Grow. Achieve. Thrive. accountability framework,” the playbook states. “The state now uses a simple, transparent, and rigorous formula that holds schools accountable for three clear goals: helping all students reach grade-level proficiency or higher, ensuring individual growth for every student toward proficient or advanced achievement, and prioritizing growth for the most struggling learners.”
Grow.Achieve.Thrive.
Grow. Achieve. Thrive. is Louisiana’s newly revised accountability system. It raises expectations for student performance, emphasizes transparency, and places greater focus on whether students are graduating ready for a career, college, or military service.
Schools and systems will be measured using a clear, balanced scorecard built around three core expectations for every student:
Grow: Students should make meaningful academic progress every year.
Achieve: Students should reach proficiency in key subjects.
Thrive: Students should graduate on time and be prepared for a college, career, or service.
The first official performance scores using Grow. Achieve. Thrive. will be released in late 2026, reflecting results from the 2025–2026 school year.
About ExcelinEd
ExcelinEd is a nonprofit organization that supports state leaders in transforming education to unlock opportunity and lifelong success for every child. The organization provides policy expertise, implementation support, and research to help states increase learning, eliminate inequities, and ensure graduates are prepared for college and career.
The Town of Sibley held a public hearing March 9 at Sibley Town Hall to discuss an ordinance affecting tractor-trailer rigs on local streets.
During the public hearing, the council discussed Ordinance 152-A, which prohibits 18-wheel tractor-trailer traffic on streets within the town limits except on Highways 371 and 164 unless a permit is obtained.
One resident in attendance asked if the ordinance would prevent her husband, a truck driver, from bringing his truck home. The mayor and council clarified that parking a tractor at home would still be allowed, as long as it does not include a loaded trailer.
Town officials said their concern centers on the weight of loaded trailers, noting that more than $1 million dollars has recently been spent repairing local roads that are not designed to handle that weight.
Council members said alternate routes are available for trucks hauling heavy loads, though they acknowledged it may be inconvenient.
Local companies that may be affected are encouraged to contact Sibley Town Hall with any questions or concerns. Permits will cost $750 per truck annually, and the mayor said letters will likely be sent to notify local businesses about the ordinance.
Prior to the regular March 9 meeting, the council met in a special session February 16 to discuss and adopt two resolutions related to potential state funding.
Resolution 01-2026 authorizes Mayor Robert Smart to apply for Community Water Enrichment Funding in the amount of $35,000 to purchase Neptune radio-read meters for the town’s water distribution system.
The council also adopted Resolution 02-2026, which authorizes Smart to apply for Local Government Assistance Program funding in the amount of $35,000. If approved, those funds will be used to rehabilitate lift stations for the town’s sewer system.
“This is something that we apply for every year,” Smart told residents in attendance. “We have been very fortunate to get it in years past, but I have been told that things have tightened up so we’re not sure we will get it this go ’round, but we’re hopeful.”
Another ordinance discussed during the hearing was Ordinance 163, which prohibits door-to-door selling without a permit within the town limits. Officials said the measure is intended to help prevent scams and to keep residents safe.
Residents are encouraged to ask anyone selling products door-to-door to show a permit. If a permit cannot be produced, the council encourages residents to notify Town Hall immediately so the situation can be addressed.
Both ordinances were approved by the council.
In other business, Town Clerk Sherry McCann presented information on a Louisiana Department of Justice Outreach Program organized by Attorney General Liz Murrill. The program offers workshops in communities on topics such as elderly fraud, cyber safety for children and teens, fair housing, landlord-tenant laws, veterans resources, and assistance for natural disaster victims.
“These workshops typically last between 30 minutes and one hour and are offered free of charge,” said McCann, “and the Attorney General encourages citizen participation and discussion.”
Council members recognized that this will be ideal in bringing communities and residents together and also keeping residents educated and informed on important matters. The council discussed the possibility of hosting the sessions monthly and inviting residents from surrounding towns to participate in order to encourage greater community involvement. More information will be discussed in a future meeting.
It was announced that the Sibley Volunteer Fire Department will host its 47th Annual Bass Tournament on Lake Bistineau on March 28. Registration will be held March 27 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Sibley Town Hall, where participants will receive the tournament rules. Weigh-in will take place at 3 p.m. at the Port of Bistineau.
Town officials said the long-running event is not only a tradition but also is an important fundraiser that helps the fire department maintain its building, equipment and other operational needs.
Mayor Smart also paused to expressed appreciation for a women’s inmate work crew that recently began assisting the town. The crew includes one female deputy and five female inmates.
“This is the first time we’ve had a woman deputy and five women inmates to work, and it’s going very well,” Smart said. “They take pride in the work they are doing and it is noticed and appreciated. They are currently on trash detail and the town is already looking much better. They picked up 18 sacks of garbage off the side of the road in one day.”
Council members also addressed an increase in littering and asked residents to keep trash inside their vehicles and dispose of it properly.
Residents are also encouraged to participate in “Love the Boot Week” in April by cleaning up their own properties. The town will not hold its annual cleanup day this year due to the cost but encourages citizens to take part individually.
Officials said the town is also continuing efforts to address blighted properties within the town limits. Some steps have already been taken, but additional action will be needed in certain cases.
In lighter news, the new playground equipment has been cleaned and is expected to be installed around the middle of the month.
“There are good things happening in Sibley,” Smart said.
Residents are encouraged to follow the Sibley Town Hall Facebook page for updates, announcements and information about upcoming events.
The mayor and council also emphasized the importance of community involvement and reminded residents that Town Council meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Town Hall. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Love the Boot Week, April 18-26, 2026, is Louisiana’s largest litter removal and beautification event, bringing awareness to the state’s litter problem while empowering organizations and individual citizens to clean up and beautify their communities. This year, we are cleaning up in honor of America’s 250th birthday!
Keep Louisiana Beautiful and Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser ask you to show your love for your country and your community by participating.
During Love the Boot Week 2025, 26,935 individuals volunteered a total of 81,852 hours at 1,408 events in all 64 parishes, leading to the removal of 514 tons of litter. Diverted from the landfill and recycled were 16,503 aluminum cans and plastic bottles. In addition to litter removal, volunteers focused on community beautification, planting 1,204 trees and 3,672 plants, and refurbishing 477 gardens. An even greater impact is expected in 2026.
“We’re excited to partner with Keep Louisiana Beautiful and participate in #LoveTheBoot Week,” said Sarah Overall, Director Economic Development & Minden Main Street.
The City of Minden will be hosting a community litter cleanup and beautification effort across Minden, Louisiana from April 18–26, 2026.
“We encourage businesses, schools, nonprofits, churches, civic groups, and neighborhoods to form a team and join us in helping keep Minden clean and beautiful,” Overall added. “Only together can we keep Louisiana beautiful! This year, we are cleaning up in honor of America’s 250th birthday, and we invite our community to show their love for our country and for Minden by helping make a difference.”
Grab a friend, bring the family, and come lend a hand as we work together to keep our hometown clean and welcoming. Register your own cleanup project or volunteer for a designated effort.
A local nonprofit dedicated to youth development is inviting families across Webster Parish to take part in a free educational event focused on health and safety.
The organization 22 Hands Up will host a Health and Fire Safety Seminar on March 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Minden Recreation Complex, located at 1001 Recreation Drive. The event will host local guest speakers offering presentations covering topics such as personal health awareness and emergency response tactics. Children in attendance will also be given an opportunity to explore potential career paths in public safety.
Organizers say the goal is to equip young people with practical knowledge that could help them respond confidently in emergency situations while also exposing them to careers that serve the community.
Refreshments will be provided, and the seminar is free to attend.
The event is part of the broader mission of 22 Hands Up, a nonprofit based in Minden that works with youth across Webster, Claiborne and Bienville parishes. The organization focuses on preparing young people for long-term success through mentorship, financial literacy education, leadership development and programs that support physical and mental wellness.
Founded by Darrell and Sandra Hampton, the organization aims to help young people build a strong foundation for the future by developing both practical life skills and community connections. Programs offered by the group include mentorship opportunities, youth leadership activities, community events and educational initiatives designed to promote financial responsibility and personal growth.
In recent years, 22 Hands Up has hosted a variety of community-focused initiatives, including youth field trips, seasonal drives and educational programs designed to expose students to opportunities beyond the classroom.
Organizers say the upcoming seminar reflects their commitment to giving young people tools that can make a real difference in their lives and in their communities.
Community members interested in learning more about the seminar or other youth programs offered by the organization are encouraged to reach out to 22 Hands Up or attend the event at the Minden Recreation Complex on March 21.
It’s only the fifth “Wright from the Heart” article and I’m already starting to doubt myself.
When people stop me at church, at a restaurant, or send me messages to say an article really touched them, I’m truly grateful. It means more than I can put into words that something I wrote helped someone feel less alone or encouraged them to take action in their own lives.
But if I’m honest, gratitude isn’t the only thing I feel.
At the root of it, there’s doubt. Unworthiness. Sometimes even shame.
My mind whispers things like “If they only knew the things I did in my past.” Or “If they knew what was going on in my life right now.” Or even, “She probably says that to all the writers.”
Years ago, someone taught me to accept compliments because they’re gifts. So I do. I smile. I say thank you.
But my mind still wants to downplay it.
Because I still don’t have my life completely in order. I still struggle with forgiveness. I still wrestle with old habits of thinking. I still fall short in ways I wish I didn’t.
And I’m guessing you do too.
Maybe when you hit a goal, instead of celebrating, you get nervous. I’ve found that when I start reaching goals, I get a little scared. And when I surpass them? Whew! That’s when my old friend self-sabotage comes knocking.
She’s relentless.
That familiar voice starts up again…
“You’ll never amount to anything.”
“You’re not good enough.”
“You’re too much.”
“Everyone else is so far ahead of you.”
And my favorite…
“You’ve wrecked other people’s lives so your life will be wrecked as soon as you’re happy.”
If you’ve heard a similar voice, you’re not crazy.
That voice is FEAR.
And as the song says, “Fear is a liar.”
Is fear driving your life?
Because if fear is driving, you’re in the backseat.
Maybe it’s not fear for you. Maybe it’s anger. Anxiety. Sadness. Overwhelm.
When emotions are driving our lives, we are not in control.
I’ll be honest, for most of my life, my emotions were in the driver’s seat. Anger and resentment were my go-to emotions. I would “lose it” on the people around me and feel terrible afterward. But in the moment? It felt justified.
“They knew that would set me off.”
“They should have known better.”
“They shouldn’t have done that.”
But that is NOT being in control.
That’s what’s referred to as emotional immaturity.(Ew… I HATED the first time I heard that about myself. Ouch!)
By definition, emotional immaturity means having difficulty handling emotions in a healthy, adult way.
It’s reacting instead of responding. Especially to uncomfortable feelings like anger, shame, fear, or rejection.
What I’ve learned through trauma therapy is that emotional immaturity often develops when someone grows up in chaos, neglect, or violence.
It’s not malicious. It’s just underdeveloped coping skills.
Here’s the good news… you can LEARN new coping skills.
You can learn to pause. You can learn to regulate. You can learn to respond instead of react.
And THAT is how you begin taking control of your life! THAT is how you move into the driver’s seat of your own life. That is how you CHANGE your life!
No one else is responsible for regulating your emotions. YOU ARE.
Let me put it in baseball terms.
When you’re up to bat, you don’t stand there expecting the pitcher to adjust to you so you can get a good hit. You adjust to the pitch. You watch the curveball. You shift your stance. You swing differently if you have to.
Life is the same way.
We can’t expect the people around us to adjust their behavior to make us happy. We can’t demand that everyone tiptoe around our triggers. We are the only ones we can control.
If we want a better life, we have to adjust.
That doesn’t mean people aren’t responsible for their own behavior. It just means we stop handing them the steering wheel to OUR emotional lives.
So maybe it’s time for a self-audit.
Who’s driving your life right now? Is it Fear? Anger? Anxiety? Shame? Or is it you?
(Shannon Wright is a real estate agent who is also a digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal. She lives in Sibley.)
