The 39th Annual MLK Celebration will cover almost one week of activities honoring Martin Luther King Jr.

“We want this to be a big great event, so we added more such as the vendors’ fair,” said committeeman Michael Walker. “We want the event for the youth to be more inclusive, and we are asking for the whole city to come out. We plan to we move it inside so that that weather will not be a problem.”

Vendors have until the January 12 to sign up, and as of now there are around 20, along with food vendors.

This year’s theme is “Lift Every Voice, Live Every Dream.”

“The way we came up with the theme is we look at the national theme and bounce ideas around and let the committee vote on it,” Walker said.

The committee is currently seeking singers and choir members for a community choir.

“We are looking for a huge turnout with the community choir this year,” Walker said. “To join, just show up for rehearsal on the dates on the flyer.

“My biggest hope and dream are to bring our city and different communities together as one,” Walker said. “I hope and pray for this. Please come out and join us. It’s going to be a fun weekend for all. MLK Weekend is a great way to bridge the gap.”

Jan. 13 & Jan. 15

7 p.m., Community Choir rehearsals for 2026 MLK Celebration. Mt. Zion CME Church, 414 E. Union St., Minden.

Jan. 17

11 a.m. until 2 p.m. MLK Youth Rally & Vendor Expo, Webster Jr. High School, Minden.

Jan. 18

3 p.m. MLK Commemorative Service Mt. Zion CME Church, 414 E. Union St., Minden. MLK Leadership & Contest Awards Presentation.

Jan. 19

8 a.m. MLK Prayer Call
10 a.m. Ecumenical March, MLK Dr., Minden
All Day: MLK Day of Service & Giving
6 p.m. MLK Community Reflections via Zoom

Keep watching Webster Parish Journal for more event information.

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Cameron Parker and Gerald Richardson combined for 28 points to lead Minden’s Crimson Tide past the Loyola Flyers 54-47 Tuesday in a non-district contest.

Minden led 29-25 at the half and outscored the Flyers by six in the third to take a 10-point lead into the final quarter. Loyola came to within two, but the Tide managed to hold on to up their season record to 6-5.

Richardson and Parker had 14 apiece to lead the Tide while Kameron Harris added 10 and Markavius Johnson scored 9.

K. Brown and J. Metoyer had 15 each to top Loyola.

Next action for the Tide comes in the Haughton tournament beginning with a Thursday contest against Northwood at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Friday matchup with the host Buccaneers at 7 p.m.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, January 9, 2026:

ADAMS, HAJERRIAN ANGELO
98090 CT. 1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
98090 CT. 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ANDERSON, EGYPT ARIES
100094 Violation Of Leash Law

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

ARDISON, JAVANTA L.
99942 Attempted Home Invasion

BAILES, JASON D.
INCOMING Issuing Worthless Checks – 7 CTS

BAKER, DARREN DUANE
99543A Simple Burglary

BALL, SAMUEL RAY
100081-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100081-CT.2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

BLYTHE, JAMES HAYDEN
99745 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BROWN, BILLEY RAY
99969 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99969 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
99969 CT. 3 Improper Lane Usage
99969 CT. 4 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

BROWN, RYAN BENJAMINE
100035 Reckless Operation of a Vehicle

BURKS, MARTIN DONELL
100087 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

CHAMP, DAVION
99591 Identify Theft

COLEMAN EASON, JACQUALINE KING
INCOMING Issuing Worthless Checks

COOPER, STEVEN D.
99347 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

COUCH, ZANDER
99935-CT.1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
99935-CT.2 Aggravated Assault

EBANKS, JR., JAMES E
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior

EDDINGS, ANDRE ROBERTO
99925 Fail to Notify law Enforcement of Change of Address (Sex Offender)

GRAY, C. BRAXTON
99914 CT 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
99914 CT 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
99914 CT 3 Unlawful Refusal To Submit To Chemical Test

HENDERSON, JR., EUGENE ELIAS
99693 Hit and Run Driving
99693A CT 1 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
99693A CT 2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

HENDERSON, SHAMEKA M.
99467
Theft Under $1,000
Restitution owed to the victim- $825, plus $123.75 fee = $948.75 total balance $722.75 as of 1/7/26

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

HILYER, III, WILLIAM G
100095 Theft Under $1,000

JOSEPH, DAVID LYNN
100088 CT 1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
100088 CT 3 Distribution of a Schedule I CDS
Please make sure forfeiture of dwelling and property located at 707 Weston St, Minden, La and $3,268 in US Currency is part of any plea/sentencing agreement.

KLICK, DONALD GENE
100096 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

LANE, SARAH JANE
99543 Simple Burglary
LEWIS, LIALNAEIJAH
100084 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

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

MONTGOMERY, DEYAUN L.
99434 Ct. 1 Resisting An Officer
99434 Ct. 2 Resisting An Officer
99434 Ct. 3 Resisting An Officer
99434 Ct. 4 Resisting An Officer
99434 Ct. 5 Simple Battery

MONTGOMERY, DEYAUN L.
99645-CT.1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
99645-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

MOORE, TIMOTHY EDWARD
98543A Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things (Over $25,000)
Restitution per the report- $38,750, plus $5,812.50 fee = $44,562.50 total

MORGAN, JOE DAYTON
99786 False Imprisonment

MORRIS, XAVIER T.
99527 Second Degree Battery

MOYA-QUINTANA, CRUZ MIQUEL
100073 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

NEAL, JESSICA ALISON
INCOMING Misdemeanor Access Device Fraud

NEWSOM, TREY
100023 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100023 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage
100023CT. 3 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

POOL, TRACE TUGGER
99241 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99241 CT. 2 Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test
Restitution owed to the victim- $2,081.73, plus $312.26 fee = $2,393.99 total

POTTER, TALEN RYAN
100090-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100090-CT.2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

ROBERTSON, ALMER JOSEPH
99778 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99778 CT. 2 Hit and Run Driving
99778 CT. 3 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
99778 CT. 4 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

ROBINSON, SPENCER
99266 CT 1 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle

SHINALL, MONICA ROMAIN
99956 Theft Under $1,000

SHROCK, WARD
100079-CT.1 Battery of a Dating Partner
100079-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

SIMS, KIARA
97935 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

SPEARS, SHANNA
98616 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian
98616 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian 14:92.2.A.(2)(c)
98616 Ct. 3 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

SPENCER, TYTIANA RENA
100072 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100072 CT. 2 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
100072 CT. 3 Failure To Obey Traffic-Control Signal
100072 CT. 4 Failure to Use Safety Belt

STANDOKES, TRELON
100097-CT.1 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
100097-CT.2 Improper Lane Usage

STILES, DEVON MICHAEL
100093 Criminal Mischief

STRONG, FRANKLIN DOYLE
99839 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

SULZER, TROY D.
INCOMING Aggravated Assault
INCOMING Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

THOMAS, PEYTON LEON
99334 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

WALKER, LASHAMEYON S.
100092 Issuing Worthless Checks Less Than $500
Total pay off of IWC $209.95

WESTON, FELIX BENARD
100083-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100083-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle Without an Inspection Certificate

WOFFORD, GAIL ELAINE
INCOMING Simple Battery

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The City of Minden has issued a boil advisory on Jan. 6, 2026 for 129 – 330 East Union Street, following a water main puncture by a contractor.  You can visit the City of Minden website at mindenusa.com for more information.

The boil advisory that was issued Dec. 23, 2025 for the following areas has been lifted:

1001 Broadway Street

1101 Broadway Street

1107 Broadway Street

300 Block of Lewisville Road

The Lewisville Road area has been released.

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By Marilyn Miller

“Come join us at the Minden Civic Center for a day filled with delicious chili, friendly competition, and good vibes. Whether you’re a traveling chili cook or a home-cooking chili champ, this event is perfect for you.”

According to Randy Stevenson, chairman of the Minden St. Jude Chili Cook-Off 2026, sign-up for the February 7 event has already begun. “We have 15 teams already signed up, but we are looking for 40,” Stevenson said.

“Even though we will continue to follow CASI rules for cooking chili, we are not a CASI-sanctioned event,” Randy explained. “That means COMPETITION CHILI MUST BE COOKED ON SITE!  All judged chili must be cooked from scratch (raw meat) on site the day of the cookoff. Ground beef for tasting cup chili can be prepared off-site. Please follow all food safety guidelines for prep.”

Teams can go to the Eventbrite page.com to sign up….That’s control click https://www.eventbrite.com/o/minden-st-jude-chili-cook-off.

Set-up and registration will take place from 7 a.m. until 8:30 a.m., with a cook’s meeting scheduled for 9 a.m. Cooking at the Minden St. Jude Chili Cook-off will start at 8 a.m. in front of the Minden Civic Center.  Tasting cups will be sold from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Judging cups are to be turned in at 12 noon. Winners will be announced and prizes given out between 3 and 3:30 p.m.

Entertainment this year will be provided by Mitch Fussell on acoustic guitar, Ben Abshire & MOJO MUSIC, and the “31GR8 Band.”

Title Sponsors for 2026 include Mike’s Hometown Spirits, Minden Family Dental, KBEF Real Country 104.5, Southern Tire and Kyle Towns Services, LLC.

Partner Sponsors include the Wimberly Agency, Passages Hospice, Dixie Overland Construction, Re-Com Services, Freedom Waterworks, Taylormade Logistics, Kepler Creek Outdoors, Edwards Energy, Yocum Law, Smokin’ J’s, Bonsall Signature Homes, Gulf States Services, Louisiana Cat, and Four Star Services.

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Ever dreamed of becoming a Master Gardener?  Now is your chance. The LSU AgCenter is accepting applications for the next Piney Hills Louisiana Master Gardeners class, scheduled for June through September. Membership is open to all adults in Northwest Louisiana. Master Gardeners are the volunteer arm of the LSU AgCenter. They are trained in horticulture in exchange for 40 hours of volunteer service, sharing what they have learned with other gardeners.

Volunteer opportunities include organizing and staffing the annual garden tour, annual seminar, along with the spring Plant Sale, teaching children about gardening, creating, and maintaining demonstration gardens and assisting in local parish extension offices.

So, what will you learn? Topics include insects, plant health, vegetables, fruits, turf, ornamentals and more. Classes, both lecture and hands-on, are taught by Louisiana Cooperative Extension specialists, university professors and other horticulture experts.

Classes will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday for 11 weeks, starting June 16, 2026. Attendance at all classes is required for certification. There is a $165 registration fee, which covers the cost of training manuals, publications and supplies for the class. If you enroll before April 20, you will receive a $25 discount. The registration deadline is May 22, 2026.

Call 318-927-3110 or 318-371-1371, to request an application, or download one at http://www.phlmg.com (Programs and follow the links.) or jmonzingo@agcenter.lsu.edu .

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Standing in line for more than two hours in a receiving line at the funeral home, not just standing in line but moving in line and sharing in line and encouraging in line — living in line — gives you time to think.

For starters, even though you don’t know everyone in line and they don’t know you, you feel a part of a greater good, a part of the force that was this life and this family you are here to honor. This one life, in ways special to each of us, touched all these people and hundreds more who couldn’t be here.

The emotional mix is stunning: the uncomfortable feeling of loss and unfairness, and at the same time gratitude for being able to count among your friends this life that radiated a deep and unselfish goodness.

It’s early spring and yet so many are going through a storm. There will always be storms but if you live long enough, they will now and then come one right after the other and you can’t keep the pieces all picked up, for yourself or for your friends. You are tying but more pieces keep falling. Breaking.

Mercy at the loss lately, and the threat of more loss. It all combines to remind me how little control we have, and how I am blind at times to things I do have control over. Which is pathetic. Sad. I am waiting in line to hug the family of a friend who was a master of doing the little things. I’m not sure he even thought so much about it. He just did them. He was aware that he had control over these little actions. He knew they made the difference.

And the difference is real, because all these people are around me. To thank him.

You can make someone happier today. You can. It might be paying for coffee for the person behind you in line at the drive-thru, or it might be calling an old friend, or thanking your Sunday school teacher, or the custodian who keeps your building clean, or the boss who signs the checks.

You ever color a picture and send it to someone for no reason? I do. It’s stupid. But it’s a surprise, and they’ll always call to thank you, because for one moment an ordinary day held a silly surprise for them, and only heaven knows how those kinds of things make a difference, but they do.

I’ve heard these things called “the smallest acts of love.” Remind someone how strong they’ve been. Compliment them for whatever makes them them. Praise. Encourage. Smile. These little things add up.

Our friend we lost, he did lots of big things. Beautiful things. He made the world prettier, literally. But when I think of him — and this has been for years, not just now — I am always left with how he made me feel. He had plenty to do but when we were together, he was present. Honest. Funny without meaning to be because he was just him. A friend.

We are all just people but somehow, we have the gift inside that, if we share it, has the potential to help a sister or brother over the next hill. The smallest thing, if it’s real, can be the thing that holds up, can be the stuff that works. The smallest thing can make a difference.

And that’s when, in the middle of the storms, the miracles show up. In the smallest, most sincere acts. One thoughtful moment, one honest ear to listen or hand to hold. Be present and be ready. We need you. You can make the difference that makes the difference for someone today, and the difference for today can make the difference for forever.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu or Twitter @MamaLuvsManning

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is hosting several Christmas Tree Reef Rodeos across the state including at Lake Bistineau. These events recycle live Christmas trees into underwater fish habitats that build structure to support fish populations and create better fishing opportunities.

How it works:

The LDWF Reef Rodeos will allow a mix of dropping off your used live Christmas tree or picking up Christmas tree reefs and reefing material. Bring your tree or take one, help create fish-friendly structure, and be part of a community effort supporting fisheries conservation and aquatic habitat improvement throughout Louisiana.

Check local dates and details below for Christmas tree drop-off sites and reefing material pickup locations.

Local Reef Rodeo Locations:

Lake Bistineau (Pickup Location Only)

Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026

Time: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Location: Parish Camp public boat launch, Lake Bistineau

Contact: Biologist Manager Jeff Sibley at (318) 371-5294 or jsibley@wlf.la.gov

Several other Christmas tree drop sites are available throughout the state for the next few weeks.  For more information on those sites, please contact your local LDWF Inland Fisheries regional office or email Raynie Harlan (rharlan@wlf.la.gov).

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Thursday

A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 74. South wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40 percent.

Thursday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday

A chance of showers, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 71. South wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Friday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before midnight, then a slight chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 56.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 52.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 30.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

Jan. 10

7 p.m. Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building in Springhill. Special guests will be Brady Rhodes, Ava Burford.

Jan. 13 & Jan. 15

7 p.m., Community Choir rehearsals for 2026 MLK Celebration. Mt. Zion CME Church, 414 E. Union St., Minden.

Jan. 17

11 a.m. until 2 p.m. MLK Youth Rally & Vendor Expo, Webster Jr. High School, Minden.

Miss Minden and Miss Minden Teen Pageant, Minden High School Auditorium.

Jan. 18

3 p.m. MLK Commemorative Service Mt. Zion CME Church, 414 E. Union St., Minden. MLK Leadership & Contest Awards Presentation.

Jan. 19

8 a.m. MLK Prayer Call
10 a.m. Ecumenical March, MLK Dr., Minden
All Day: MLK Day of Service & Giving
6 p.m. MLK Community Reflections via Zoom

Jan. 24

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

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Traffic Court Friday, January 9:

ABDEHOU, DAVID
T001326 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 77/55

ABELS, JOSEPH SCOTT
T001426Failure to Use Safety Belt

ALLEN, GARRETT WADE
T001526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BELL, NICHELE NICOLE
T001626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BENOIT, TAMMIE THARPE
T001726 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 71/55

BICE, KALEB JOSEPH
T001826 Following Too Closely
Single vehicle crash

BOWERS, CHRISTOPHER L.
T001926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BOYCE, FOREST
T002026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

BRAZZEL, DANIEL
T000126 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 74/55

BRITTON, LAJOYE PATRICE
T002126 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T002226A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

BROWN, CAMERON REECE
T000226 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

BURNS, DESTINY
T000326 Speeding 25 & OVER – 83/55

BUTLER, KELLER
T000426 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T000426A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

CASTLE, DIMITRIUS
T002226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CHANLER, JEFFREY
T002326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

CLARK, EMILEY KATE
T002426 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
T002426A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

COLBERT, VICTOR
T002526 Speeding 16-24 MPH
T002526A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

COLE, TYLER MARKIA
T002626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

COOPER, MALORIE BROOKE
T002726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

COX, CONNOR JAMES
T133725 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Crash

DELANEY, TWSHAE TOSH
T002826 Improper Child Restraint
T002826A Failure to Use Safety Belt

DIAS, MARTIN LEWIS
T002926 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 79/55

DRAKE, TRAVIS DEMAR
T003026 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T003026A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

DUCKSWORTH, TINA
T003126 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

ELKINS, LAMARIO J
T003226 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

FIDLER, PARKER ALLEN
T003326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

FORD, ADREANNA LATESHA
T003426 Improper Lane Usage
Single vehicle crash with property damage

FRAZIER, LADARREN D
T003526 Improper Child Restraint

GARDNER, CASSANDRA YVONNE
T003626 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 73/55
T003626A Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

GIESE, MADISON M
T003726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

GLOVER, RICKIE DEMOND
T030925 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Tail Lights
T030925A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GOODINGS, RAYVEN
T003826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

GORDON, RANDY LYNN
T003926 Failure To Obey Traffic-Control Signal
Single vehicle crash

GREEN, KEIAHARA A.
T004026 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 68/55
T004026A Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

GRIGSBY, KATIYAH ANTWANE
T004126 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T004126A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

HARGROVE, JR, PLEAS
T004226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HARRIS, KEANDRE A
T004326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HAWTHORNE, MYANGELIO
T004426 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 78/55

HEALY, RIAIN DARAGH
T004526 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 73/55

HENRY, KATERRIOUS
T004626 Speeding 25 & OVER – 97/55

HOLLOWAY, JAKE
T004726 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 77/55

HOUSTON, LAURA MORGAN
T004826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

HOWELL, IV, NOEL D
T004926 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 72/55

JACKSON, CHAUNCEY J
T117121A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

JACKSON, LAMIRACLE KEYSHA
T005026 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JOHNSON, DEAJUA DALYNN
T005126 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 71/55

JONES, ALISHA M.
T005226 Failure to Use Safety Belt

JONES, DOUGLAS L
T000526 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 79/55

JONES, KEELY ANNE
T005326 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 73/55

JONES, LINDA P
T005426 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Crash

KELL, JIMMY LYNN
T005526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

KRATZER, JEFFREY
T005626 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

LAUDERDALE, CHANTACY
T000626 Switched License Plates

LEWIS, JR, JEFFREY THURMAN
T005726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

LYONS, ZOOKEAS
T005826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MARTINEZ, ANGEL MORALES
T005926 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

MAULDIN, MEGHAN EBARB
T006026 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 3/55

MILLER, PRESTON
T006126 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T006126A Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

MITCHELL, DEXTER NAVORIS
T006226 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

MONTGOMERY, DREW
T006326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

MOORE, JR., TRACY DARNELLE
T006426 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

MORRIS, VICTORIA
T000726 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 71/55

MURPHY, JIMMY RAY
T006526 Following Too Closely
Crash

MURRAY, JR, JACKIE G
T103925 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

MYLES, JADEN ARMAND
T000826 Failure To Dim Lights – Oncoming
T000826A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate
T000826B No Insurance

NEWSOM, JOSEPH
T026823 Speeding 11-15 MPH
T026823A Operating A Vehicle Without Proof Of Insurance
T026823B Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

NIXON, JR., WALTER P
T006626 Speeding 11-15 MPH

O’REAR, SHAWN LEE
T006726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

PARKER, JOSEPH ISAIAH
T006826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

PARKER, STEVEN DREW
T022924 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

PHILLIPS, SHAUN PATRICK
T006926 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 90/70

PIERCE, DAVID LANCE
T007026 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 82/70

POGEL, ALEX JOHN
T007126 General Speed Law – 85/70

RICHARDS, ADRIANNA CLAIRE
T000926 Operating A Vehicle With Improper Stop Lamps
T000926A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

RICHARDSON, ANNETTE
T007226 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 72/55
T007226A Improper Child Restraint

RIVERA, NESTOR ANTONIO M
T001026 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ROBERTSON, SHUNTE ALIZE
T007326 Failure to Use Safety Belt

SCOTT, DESTINY
T001126 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 76/55
SHELTON, LADERRIUS
T007426 Failure to Use Safety Belt

SMITH, MAKWUNTA KYREE
T007526 Speeding 16-24 MPH – 87/70

STEPHENS, ROBERT M
T007626 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

STEWART, DEMARRO DEVON
T007726 Operating A Vehicle Without Proper Required Equipment
T007726A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

STRINGFELLO, FABIAN JAURON
T007826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

TAGGART, SARAH JOANA
T007926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

TAYLOR, ADAM R
T008026 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Single vehicle crash

THOMAS, ROBIN
T001226 Speeding 25 & OVER – 60/35

TURNER, BOBBIE JEAN
T008126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

VALLE- QUEZADA, MICHELLE
T008226 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 69/55

WAFER, ZAKEE YASIR
T008326 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WALKER, CURTIS HUGH
T008426 Speeding 11-15 MPH – 70/55

WALLER, WILLIE
T009226 Leaving Scene Of Accident
T009226A Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

WALRAVEN, GUY R
T008526 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WALTERS, JESSICA
T008626 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WASHINGTON, KANESE L
T080720 Failure to Use Safety Belt
T080720A Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

WEATHERS, KAREEM RAYSHUN
T008726 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WELLS, SONYA L
T008826 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WESSON, JUDD LARAMIE
T008926 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WHITE, THOMAS J
T143815 Failure to Use Safety Belt

WILLIAMS, JOSHUA DAVION
T009026 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

WILLIAMS, MONTRELL RASHAD
T009126 Failure to Use Safety Belt

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Dr. Melani Wheeler Moore
August 14, 1968 — January 5, 2026
Dubberly
Memorial service at later date.

Patrick Edgar Lasseigne
March 14, 1953 — January 3, 2026
Pleasant Valley
Celebration of Life: Noon January 24, 2026, Pleasant Valley Methodist Church.

Charles Deck “Charlie” Odom
January 16, 1951 – January 3, 2026
Visitation: 1 until 3 p.m. Saturday, January 17, 2026, St. John’’s Episcopal Church Minden.
Funeral service immediately following at 3 p.m.

Mattie Youngblood Turner
July 26, 1928 — January 2, 2026
Visitation: 8:30 until 10 a.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., immediately following visitation.
Burial: 11:15 a.m. Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Minden.

Lance R. LeMay
March 18, 1972 — December 31, 2025
Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday January 9, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 1 p.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Burial: 2:30 p.m. Saturday, January 10, Springhill Cemetery, Springhill.

Samuel Dewayne Slayter
July 17, 1961 — January 1, 2026
Memorial service at a later date.

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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UPDATE: As of 9 p.m. Tuesday, Webster Parish Sheriff’s investigators were still searching for a Shongaloo woman who had been missing since around 9 a.m. Tuesday.

ORIGINAL STORY:

A search is underway for a Shongaloo woman who was reported missing from her 1300 block of LA. Alt. Hwy. 2 residence around 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Major Bobby Igo III said an all-out effort is currently being conducted in attempts to find 33-year-old Lacey Mann who apparently wandered away from her residence. Information indicates Ms. Mann’s disappearance could be related to medical issues.

Igo said K-9 units, four-wheelers and drones are being utilized in the search which includes heavily wooded areas.

Ms. Mann is described as five-feet tall, weighing 95 pounds. She has green eyes and brown hair.

Officials have asked that anyone who may have seen Ms. Mann to please contact the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.

“Often, the public plays a big part in helping locate a missing person,” Igo said. “We will continue to search for this lady and any information we receive will be appreciated.”

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By Pat Culverhouse

Driving with bright headlights has dimmed the outlook for a Minden man who now sits in the parish prison facing a litany of charges including possession of illegal narcotics.

Webster Parish Deputy Bryan Miller reportedly performed a traffic stop on 46-year-old Dewayne Demont Green shortly after 1 a.m. Tuesday on the Shreveport Rd. after he failed to dim his bright lights for oncoming traffic.

After stopping Green’s vehicle, the deputy reportedly smelled the odor of alcohol inside the vehicle. The deputy also observed Green apparently attempting to conceal an unknown item by pressing his hand against his hip. Green was asked to exit his vehicle, and he continued to hold his hand against his hip and turn away from the deputy.

When asked to show his hands, Green reportedly raised them slowly above his head, tossed an item toward the front of his vehicle and quickly sat down inside.

During a subsequent information request, Deputy Miller reportedly learned Green was wanted on a fugitive warrant from the Minden police department. A search of the suspect revealed a glass pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamines inside his pants’ pocket. A search of the vehicle also uncovered drug paraphernalia.

A small baggie containing a substance which later tested positive as methamphetamines reportedly was found near the driver’s side front tire during a search of the area where the item had been tossed by the suspect. 

Green was transported to the Sheriff’s Office where he gave a breath sample to record the presence of alcohol.

Green faces charges of failure to dim headlights, DWI first offense, driving under suspension, possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), possession of drug paraphernalia, obstruction of justice and on a warrant from Minden PD for failure to register as sex offender.

He is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center where his total bond has been set at $31,502.

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By Tiffany Flournoy

CULLEN, La. — Cullen Police Chief Fannie Rankin has asked the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office to pursue criminal charges against town assistant clerk Untracy Brittentine, alleging misuse and unauthorized use of Rankin’s personal information and credit to obtain insurance coverage for municipal police vehicles.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker confirmed the complaint has been forwarded to the Webster Parish District Attorney’s Office for review. As of publication, District Attorney Schuyler Marvin had not responded to a request for comment.

Rankin said Brittentine contacted her Nov. 10, 2025, instructing her to report to Town Hall to sign new insurance cards. Rankin said she declined and asked that the cards be delivered to the Police Department. She said Brittentine continued contacting her Nov. 12, 13 and 14 with the same request.

Rankin said she contacted Progressive Insurance on Nov. 17 and learned she was listed as the CEO or owner on the insurance policy covering two police vehicles. A company representative told her the policy had been established using her credit because she was listed as the owner, Rankin said.

Rankin said the phone number on the policy matched Brittentine’s personal cellphone number. The policy listed the Town of Cullen as the policyholder and Rankin as the owner. Rankin said a separate town vehicle listed Mayor James Terry Hoof as CEO and that town vehicles previously had not been insured.

Brittentine said when she started work as assistant clerk a few months ago, municipal vehicles were without insurance.

Citing pending litigation between Rankin and the town, Brittentine said that because she was unable to obtain the chief’s information directly from Rankin, she obtained the information through Forth, the town’s former insurance provider. Brittentine said she then provided the information to Progressive.

Brittentine further stated that she was unaware Progressive would conduct a credit inquiry using that information.

“The town of Cullen can’t speak if there was an accident. They have to speak to a primary person, and being as though she’s the chief of police, she was the primary person that they would contact, not I, and not the mayor. I wasn’t allowed to speak with her. The only thing that I was instructed to do by the mayor was to get insurance on all the vehicles,” she said.

“The insurance company, which was Progressive. I did not know this at the time that they ran credit when you obtain insurance, because keep in mind, I just started this job in October It wasn’t that I just took her information and had her (Chief) credit ran. That wasn’t the case,” she added.

“This has been a case of defamation of my character. It has been a case of harassment. It has been a case of mental turmoil when it concerns Chief Fanny Rankin. It’s not business, it’s personal… This goes back to a personal matter, and she’s taking the personal matter, and taking it to the Town of Cullen. She has slandered me on Facebook. She’s released my personal information on Facebook,” Brittentine said.

According to Rankin, during court proceedings Nov. 19 in a separate civil matter, Fannie Rankin vs. Town of Cullen, a district judge said it was improper for Rankin to be listed as CEO on the police vehicle insurance policy. Rankin said she canceled the policy. Reportedly, the insurance is now established under the name of the Town of Cullen. 

This is a developing story.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Don M. Barron Contractor, Inc., headquartered in Farmerville, was declared low bidder for the city’s two-million gallon ground storage water tank.

Minden City Council members unanimously approved Barron’s low bid of $3,481,800 for the project. The bid came in slightly over the city’s consulting engineers’ estimated cost (without construction contingencies) of $3.465 million.

Barron’s bid was lowest of three received.

State funds available for construction of the project are reportedly just over $3.216 million, which means the city will be contributing $265,420 to the total cost.

Mayor Nick Cox said the new storage tank will double the city’s capacity for storing fresh water. Construction is expected to take at least a year, Cox said.

Monday’s bid letting completes a process which began with conversations among council members more than two decades ago, council member Michael Roy said.

“We first talked about this in 2001 when I first came on the council under Mayor Bill Robertson,” Roy said.

Council members also voted to overturn a decision by the Minden Planning Commission which had denied a zoning variance for the establishment of a cemetery in the 1300 block of Sheppard St.

St. Rest Baptist Church had requested the variance on the roughly one-acre property at the Commission’s Dec. 4, 2025 meeting. Commission members voted 2-1 to deny the application. An appeal of the decision was received on Dec. 17, just ahead of the 14-day appeal period.

But council members reversed that decision, with four voting in favor of Dist. B representative Levon “Charlie” Thomas’ motion to overturn. District A’s Carlton “Buddy” Myles abstained.

During public comments prior to the council’s vote, Fort St. resident Glenda Allums cited her opposition to the variance citing safety concerns including increased traffic congestion on an already busy street. She also suggested a decline in property values if the variance was granted.

Alums also said there were serious environmental issues with the property. Alums told council members she had obtained a number of signatures from homeowners on a petition opposing the move.

“We’re very concerned over environmental and health issues. There are two underground streams beneath that property and one above ground stream,” she said. “I think there should be an environmental impact study before this is allowed.”

Following the council’s vote, Dist. E member Andy Pendergrass said he would hope the property owners would address any environmental concerns which had been mentioned.

During Monday’s meeting, council members also:

• Named District A council member Buddy Myles as Mayor Pro Temp.

• Adopted a resolution authorizing signatory power to the Mayor, Mayor Pro Temp, City Clerk, Assistant City Clerk and City Clerk Office Manager on checks issued by the city.
• Authorized advertising for bids on one Altec AT48M, or equivalent, bucket truck.
• Heard and accepted budget/financial report for November, 2025.
• Authorized Mayor Nick Cox to accept quote from Conterra Networks to become the internet provider for city facilities,  and to execute necessary documents.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Things that top of the Webster Parish Police Jury will remain the same during 2026, with a pair of long-time members again elected to serve in leadership positions.

Jim Bonsall, who represents District 6 on the jury, was unanimously elected President for the new year. Bonsall has served on the jury since 2005 and as president each year since 2015.

District 11 juror Steve Ramsey was again named Vice President and will continue in that capacity in addition to serving as Chairman of the jury’s road committee.

Also during Tuesday’s meeting, jury members:

• Appointed Lisa Balkom Secretary-Treasurer and Alicia Owens Assistant Secretary-Treasurer for two-year terms.
• Agreed to continue holding police jury regular meetings on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in the courthouse annex.
• Approved the proposed 2026 budget and amended 2025 budget for operation of the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory Commission.
• Approved a resolution for temporary change of polling location in the parish, to be filed with the Secretary of State.
• Ratified local hospital tax assessment agreement with additional providers and certify documents.
• Awarded bid for engineering services for DR 4611 grant projects to the firm Cotten, Graff & Smoak Engineering. Bids were opened Dec. 11,2025.
• Approved renewals of 2026 licenses for video poker (3), beer sales (6) and high alcohol content (2).
• Accepted reports from various parish agencies.

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BOSSIER CITY – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development reminds motorists that intermittent lane closures are in place in both directions on I-20 as the $128 million major rehabilitation project in Bossier City continues to near completion.

Currently, the inside lanes in both the eastbound and westbound directions through a portion of the project, which stretches from just west of Benton Road to Industrial Drive, are closed.

These lane closures allow the contractor to safely complete final tasks associated with the project, such as installing pavement expansion joints, signage installation, and other smaller work items.

Motorists should be prepared for possible delays, particularly during peak travel times in the morning and evening.

As a reminder, all major construction on the project, which began in September 2023, has been completed. This included removing all travel lanes of the interstate down to the base and completely rebuilding the roadway and ramps at five interchanges.

DOTD appreciates the public’s patience as we work to wrap up the remaining tasks, and celebrate the completion of this impactful investment in the I-20 corridor in northwest Louisiana.

To read much more about the project and access additional resources, visit the I-20 project webpage here.

To get a bird’s eye view of the progress on the project, click here.

Special note:

At this time, the commercial motor vehicle (CMV) prohibition will remain in effect due to narrow lane widths at certain locations within the work zone. This is enforced under Louisiana Revised Statute 32:327 from Hamilton Road to Industrial Drive (both directions). CMV drivers must continue to utilize the primary detour of I-220.

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Don’t let service and dedication to our community go unrecognized! Nominate an outstanding man for the Minden Man of the Year Award, sponsored by the Minden Lions Club. The winner will be announced during the Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala on Tuesday, March 24.

DEADLINE: February 18, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.

Man of the Year nominations will be judged by a committee consisting of representatives from the Minden Lions Club, Young Women’s Service Club, Greater Minden Chamber, Minden Evening Lions Club, and Minden Civitans.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ebb7DFsd-TIb_v2qwjHwpLJwpRJ4S5vw821lwBG-0BY/viewform?pli=1&pli=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawPLd5BleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFrMWlhd0wzQzVoc3FQNVlzc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHsunz-aF2s2EQw7k4zB9Iw9bmmLnJQh8yAKV6glOHnJw3UsVcF7aSAdk2v09_aem_YetDGKXwn6qDXO-STaeYLA&edit_requested=true

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Charles Deck “Charlie” Odom passed away on January 3, 2026, in Alexander City AL, following a lengthy illness. Born on January 16, 1951, he was 74 years old.

Charlie was a 1969 graduate of Minden High School and went on to attend Northwestern State. Professionally, he was a fixture in the local business community as the owner and operator of Minden Fire and Safety, a company he led from 1970 until his retirement in 2016.

A man of faith, Charlie was an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where he served faithfully on the vestry and as Junior Warden. He was a dedicated servant to the wider Minden community for over four decades. His commitment was evident through his service in the Jaycees, his role as State Fundraising Chair for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, his support of the St. Jude Auction, and his tenure as a Webster Parish Police Juror.

Above all, Charlie was known for his loyalty and heart. He was a friend who you could call at 3:00 a.m., and he would simply show up. He would do anything for his friends and family, regardless of the circumstances. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and a steadfast friend to many.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Pattie Cook Odom of Alexander City; and his two sons, Chris Odom of Minden, LA, and Chad Odom (and wife Angie) of Auburn, AL. He was the devoted “Pappy” to his two granddaughters, Isabella (“Izzy”) and Eleonora (“Ellie”) of Auburn, AL.He is also survived by his brother, Troy Odom (and wife Suzanne) of Minden; and sisters-in-law, Diane Inabnett of Mobile and Cindy Price of Little Rock. In-laws Nubia and Eduardo Rativa.

He was known and loved as “Uncle Charlie” by his nieces: Joel Salley of Homer, Holly and Matthew Woodard of Shreveport, Rachel and Wil Delafield of Stonewall, Ryan and Stephanie Odom Phillips of Baton Rouge, and Kristen Hulse Castillion of Little Rock; and his nephews: Melanie and Bo Odom of Stonewall, LA, Kristi and J.R. Inabnett of Sebring, FL, and Boe Inabnett of Mobile, AL.

His legacy as Uncle Charlie continues with his great-nieces: Elizabeth, Emma Calle, Addison, Aly, Joni, Brenna, and Camila; and his great-nephews: Sam, Luke, Buddy, Haidyn, Christian, and Evan. He is also survived by his great-great-nieces: Avery, Molly, and Jenna; and his great-great-nephews: Jett, Coleman, Myles, and Jones. He also leaves behind a host of special cousins and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elvyn Coyle and Troy Odom of Minden; his brother and sister-in-law, Sammy and Cheryl Odom of Mansfield; his father and mother-in-law, Lou and Boe Cook of Minden; his brother-in-law, John Inabnett; his brother and sister-in-law, Cleo and Jack Cook; and his niece, Misha Hulse Boyne of Little Rock.

Service Information

Family visitation will be held Saturday January 17 from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minden, Louisiana. The memorial service will immediately follow at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial Contributions

In honor of Charlie’s long-standing support of the cause, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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By JASON PUGH, Northwestern State Athletic Communications Director

Military service as World War II ended interrupted Jim Willis’ two-sport Northwestern State athletic career, but nothing could sever the deep-seated admiration he had for his alma mater.

Willis, Northwestern’s first Major League Baseball player, passed away Saturday at 98 near his longtime home of Boyce. Visitation is set for 5-8 p.m. Friday with services at 11 a.m. Saturday at John Kramer & Son Funeral Home in Alexandria.

A baseball and basketball player whose collegiate careers were altered by his service, Willis began his Northwestern career in 1944 before serving his country in Germany toward the end of the war.

He returned to play both basketball and baseball for the Demons, experiencing success on both fronts before becoming the first Demon to reach Major League Baseball, spending two seasons with the Chicago Cubs from 1953-54.

Following his athletic career, Willis transitioned into twin family businesses – teaching and farming – both of which were natural fits for the Doyline native.

“He came from a family of teachers,” said Aza Willis Walker, one of Willis’ and his late wife, Dixie’s, four children. “We wrote in his obituary it was a natural transition when he finished baseball. His mother was a teacher. His great-grandfather built a school. His great uncle, James W. Nicholson, was president of LSU. He always enjoyed teaching people about something and always wanted people to learn.”

Perhaps portending his future on the diamond, Willis took part in the European Theater League during his time in Germany, playing at military bases in Germany and France. One of his teammates in Europe, Bob Rush, eventually became his teammate with the Cubs.

Willis’ two-season stint with the Cubs saw him toss two complete games in three starts during the 1953 season, going 2-1 with a 3.12 ERA. His Chicago tenure saw him appear in 27 games with four starts, showcasing his versatility on the mound.

Those 27 games nearly never happened as Roy Johnson, the Cubs third base coach, had to travel to Boyce to convince Willis to return to baseball. Coincidentally, the first pitch of Willis’ major league career came against another Louisiana native, Joe Adcock of Coushatta.

That meeting led to a fun exchange decades later when the two ran into each other at a horse-racing track near Lafayette with the two arguing over the outcome of the at-bat. Adcock swore it was a home run while Willis retorted it was a grounder back to the pitcher.

A 1976 N-Club Hall of Fame inductee whose No. 28 Demon baseball jersey was retired in 2009, Willis was not one for bragging about his big-league career.

“When we were little, he didn’t talk about it much,” said Walker, whose thoughts were echoed by her sister. “Daddy never wanted to be one of those old athletes who talked about what they used to do. It’s funny, I met my now-husband at 15. He found out about daddy’s baseball card, and he started asking him a lot of questions. That’s when I found out most of it.”

Following his service in World War II, Willis returned to Natchitoches and was part of the resumption of the Demon baseball program, helping Northwestern post a 12-9 mark in 1949.

He was equally as productive on the basketball court at Northwestern. As a guard, Willis helped coach H. Lee Prather’s 1948-49 Demon squad post a 23-5 record, win the Gulf States Conference championship and reach the NAIA Tournament semifinals – a run that included a quarterfinal victory against BYU.

Willis’ time on the hardcourt was shared with John McConathy, himself an NBA first-round draft pick and father of eventual Demon head basketball coach Mike McConathy.

The younger McConathy recalled seeing Willis during several Demon basketball reunions the coach held during his tenure with the two forging a friendship.

“My dad had a tremendous amount of respect for his ability as a player but also as a man,” Mike McConathy said. “Being around him and seeing him from time to time at different alumni functions, you could tell he was very well respected, and that was pretty special. You learn a lot by the number of people, when they come back, how they are received by other team members. There was always a lot of respect for him.”

Willis’ Demon baseball legacy opened the door for six more Northwestern alums to reach baseball’s pinnacle, but his post-playing career – one that saw him become a beloved educator – drew him the same reaction as it did from his fellow Demon athletic alumni.

That included the ability to befriend nearly anyone from an eventual university president to his students.

“Bobby Alost was a good friend of his,” said Sally Willis Barden, the third of Willis’ four children. “I was working a summer student job in the admissions office with Walter Ledet. One day, Bobby Alost saw my nametag and asked if I was related to Jim Willis. I said, ‘That’s my dad.’ He said, ‘I saw your daddy and (brother) Frank, and I asked Frank how fast your dad could throw a baseball?’ He said, ‘As fast as a .22 bullet.’

“I was coming home on the weekends, and I told Daddy about it. He said, ‘Next time you see Bobby Alost, tell him I need someone to come haul pulp wood.’ Bobby almost fell down laughing. They always had a lot of fun. (Willis) always said, ‘If you can’t have fun, don’t do it.’ For his birthday party, he’d say, ‘No gifts. Just come happy. If you’re not happy, don’t come.’”

Both Barden and Walker earned degrees from Northwestern, lengthening the family legacy.

That connection continued when Barden’s daughter, Susan Culley Barden, attended the Louisiana Scholars College and was part of the Spirit of Northwestern marching band.

Susan Barden found a perfect way to honor her grandfather several years ago, printing a Willis No. 28 Chicago Cubs jersey and posing for a picture in front of the famous Wrigley Field marquee.

The roots of this branch of the Willis family began at then-Louisiana Normal College when Jim met Dixie James, who was the Homecoming queen. The pair later married and settled in Boyce.

With Willis’ family maintaining property in Webster Parish, trips to and through Natchitoches were commonplace, which allowed Willis to remain connected to his alma mater.

“(Northwestern) meant a great, great deal to him,” Walker said. “Northwestern always honored him. (Former assistant athletic director and current special assistant to the president) Doug Ireland was incredible. It was such a huge part of him. He had a cabin in north Louisiana, and every time we would travel up there, we’d go by NSU. We did it a million times. I was there when his number was retired. We went and took pictures of him by the retired number. They invited him to throw out the first pitch at a baseball game in his later years. He still had it, and it meant the world to him.

“He loved coach Prather. He loved everything about Natchitoches. Northwestern meant so, so much to him.”

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A recent Wall Street Journal editorial highlighted Louisiana’s broadband deployment efforts as an example of how streamlined rules and efficient program design can significantly reduce costs while expanding high-speed internet access.

The editorial pointed to Louisiana as a case study in lowering the cost per household and business connected, noting that the state’s average cost per connection dropped sharply under updated federal guidance.

“The average cost for each new household or business connected in Louisiana fell to $3,943 from $5,245.”

The Wall Street Journal

The Journal credited a shift toward fewer procedural requirements and greater private-sector participation for helping states like Louisiana stretch taxpayer dollars further.

In September, Gov. Jeff Landry sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick outlining Louisiana’s plan to reinvest savings from its broadband program into state-led initiatives aligned with national priorities, including artificial intelligence, education and workforce development. In the letter, Landry requested flexibility to allow remaining grant funds to be used within Louisiana to support long-term economic growth and innovation rather than being returned or reallocated.

Louisiana was the first state to submit a revised broadband plan under the updated federal framework and continues to lead nationally in deploying high-speed internet efficiently while identifying opportunities to reinvest savings in complementary initiatives that strengthen communities statewide.

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Most people who aren’t from around here don’t realize how much Mardi Gras matters in my hometown of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

It surprises them. They think of New Orleans first—and they should. They think of Mobile, which makes a strong and rightful claim as the birthplace of Mardi Gras in America. They think of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, where Carnival season is stitched into daily life. What they often miss is that Hattiesburg has long carried a deep connection to Mardi Gras.

In my case, that connection runs straight through family.

The Mystic Krewe of Zeus, the oldest krewe in Hattiesburg, has been part of my life for generations. My grandfather helped found it. A cousin served as the first queen. My father was a member. Membership passed to me, and later to my son. My daughter had the honor of serving as queen, and her old man served as king. 

For all that, king cakes weren’t a big part of growing up.

They existed, sure, but they weren’t central. They were talked about more than they were eaten. A few local bakeries began making them in the 1980s, and they were fine, but king cakes hadn’t yet become the cultural obsession they are today.

That changed for me after Crescent City Grill opened in the late ’80s.

Running a New Orleans–inspired restaurant naturally tends to pull you into the vibe of that city. In the mid-1990s, we started serving king cake bread pudding during Carnival season. It was an immediate hit. Looking back, that probably should’ve told me something. At the time, it just felt like one more seasonal dish people loved.

Back then, there was no bakery. No plan to open one. And absolutely no knowledge of how to run one.

A French pastry chef moved to Hattiesburg years later and opened a small bakery across from Crescent City Grill. His king cakes were excellent—every bit as good as what I brought back from New Orleans. He eventually closed after a brave but lost battle with cancer. In that moment, Hattiesburg lost something special.

Based on no sound business logic and zero baking experience, I opened a French-inspired bakery mainly because it felt like the town needed one.

The first king cakes didn’t even come from the bakery. They were made out of The Midtowner kitchen while Loblolly was still under construction. That crew could turn out about thirty-five a day. They were driven down the street and sold at Crescent City Grill. Lines stretched down the sidewalk. Cakes sold out in minutes. That told us everything we needed to know about the coming days that lay ahead.

The following year, a hunch turned into a mission.

I drove to New Orleans with the sole purpose of buying as many king cakes as I could load in my truck to see if the hype was real. I stopped at bakeries all over the city and came home with around thirty-five of them. Dong Phuong had long been treated as the standard. It was revered. And rarely questioned.

The honest goal was to prove it was overrated.

It wasn’t. Not by a long shot.

I sampled every king cake I brought back—several bites of each, spread across a counter late one Sunday afternoon. Dong Phuong was the clear winner. No debate. No question. That became our benchmark.

The first Mardi Gras season with the bakery open, the team managed sixty to seventy cakes on a few days. We sold out every day, and I was grateful—but not proud yet. It wasn’t where it needed to be. The team was still learning. So was I.

Here’s the truth: I entered the bakery business knowing next to nothing about the bakery business. I am not now, nor have I ever been, a baker. Everything on my end has been learned the hard way.

Over time, a strong team came together. The product improved. Last year, we reached volumes around two hundred fifty king cakes a day, sometimes pushing three hundred. Most days sold out. They were good. Actually, I believed them to be exceptional (and I feel as if I can be a non-biased judge of our restaurants and products).

Granted, king cakes are subjective. Everyone has an opinion. I have several strong ones.

Too many king cakes suffer from bad bread. Dry. Dense. Lifeless. Tasteless. A king cake should be soft and tender. Moist, but not wet. If the bread isn’t right, nothing else matters.

The icing is another problem with many king cakes. Many bakeries drown their cakes in thick, overly sweet icing that hardens as it sits. It’s heavy. It’s stiff and cloying. The sweetness overwhelms everything. We use a light frosting instead, just sweet enough to do the job and get out of the way.

Then there’s the sugar. In my research I found that too many bakeries dumped piles of granulated sugar on top, adding grit and even more sweetness. Sweet for the sake of sweet is never a good thing.

But the biggest problem is filling.

Most fruit-filled king cakes rely on canned jelly or doughnut filling. We tried that early on. It never felt honest. It never tasted right, and I was never proud of the end result. We were taking a shortcut. The blueberry king cake at Loblolly uses local blueberries picked at peak season, frozen and held specifically for us. Blueberries, cream cheese, cinnamon, and restraint. That’s it. It makes a difference.

Last year we hit the road started holding pop-ups across the region. Demand outran capacity. Lines formed in parking lots. Sales had to be limited. Cakes still ran out.

This season, the bakery is better prepared. I bought an additional oven, one specifically used for baking the perfect king cake. Five hundred cakes a day is our realistic goal this year, with six hundred a day during peak. Retail partners across Mississippi and Louisiana are now carrying Loblolly king cakes. People kept asking and now nationwide overnight shipping is in place. That is going to be huge.

Looking back over a forty-four-year career, two moments from last year stand out more than most, and both belong to the bakery team.

The New York Times named Loblolly Bakery one of the Top 22 Bakeries in the U.S. That recognition belongs entirely to the people inside that building today, showing up at all hours, day and night.

The second happened while visiting our son in Chicago. A text arrived saying the King Cake Mafia had reviewed our king cakes. Expectations were low. Louisiana critics aren’t known for generosity when it comes to Mississippi bakeries dabbling in sacred Louisiana staples.

I was nervous opening up TikTok.

The score was high. Josh gave it a 10 and Patrick gave it a 9.7. HUGE! Later, in their end-of-season review, one named Loblolly’s king cake his favorite of the year. The other placed us just behind Dong Phuong.

That was the moment it felt like the work had landed where it was supposed to.

Again, none of this happens alone. Credit belongs to the leadership team, the bakers, the decorators, and the people who show up way before dawn and stay after dark. Pride lives there—not in the attention, but in the effort.

Mardi Gras has always been about continuity—family, community, and the quiet commitment to show up year after year and do it a little better than the year before. It’s passed down, not perfected. Learned by watching, then by doing.

King cakes just happen to be part of that story now.

Onward and laissez les bons temps rouler!

Orange Country Ham

2 Tbl               Unsalted Butter

1 1/2 lbs.         Country Ham, sliced 1/8-1/4” thick

1/4 cup            Orange Juice, freshly squeezed

2 Tbl               Orange Marmalade

1/4 cup            Pure Maple Syrup

1 1/2 tsp          Black Pepper, freshly ground 

Place a large heavy duty skillet over medium-high heat. Melt half of the butter and just as it begins to brown, place the ham slices in the skillet. Brown each side and place ham on a baking sheet. Repeat this process to brown the remaining ham. 

Lower the heat and place the orange juice, marmalade and maple syrup in the ham skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning. Add the ham back into the skillet along with the black pepper. Use a pair of tongs to move the ham and coat each slice with the glaze. When the ham is coated and hot, remove from the heat and serve immediately. 

Yield: 6-8 servings 

(Robert St. John is a chef, restauranteur and published cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

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