Tuesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 78. Southeast wind around 5 mph.
Tuesday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 56. Calm wind.
Wednesday
Sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night
Mostly clear, with a low around 61.
Thursday
Sunny, with a high near 86.
Thursday Night
Clear, with a low around 60.
*Information provided by National Weather Service.
Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .
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 27
6 p.m. Easter Fam Fest, Frank Anthony Park, Springhill. Presented by North Webster Community Church.
March 26
7 a.m. until 1 p.m. Blood Drive, Minden Medical Center, 1 Medical Plaza, 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.
March 27
Deadline to accept Phillip’s 5K Run sponsorships, Minden. Get race details and register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/PhillipSCottageK .
11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., Easter EGGstravaganza, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.
5 until 8 p.m. registration for the Sibley Volunteer Fire Department’s 47th Annual Bass Tournament on Lake Bistineau.
March 28
Sibley Volunteer Fire Department’s 47th Annual Bass Tournament on Lake Bistineau. Weigh in is 3 p.m.
March 29
2 p.m. Community Egg Hunt, MHS Football Stadium, sponsored by MHS Student Council and Young Women’s Service Club Minden.
March 31
5 until 6:30 p.m. Families and commented are invited to Brown Upper Elementary World Social Studies Fair. Sponsors are sought. Contact Principal Tessa Flournoy, 318-539-2818.
6 until 7 p.m., Weeds and Weed Control with Gather & Grow, LSU AgCenter, 1202 Homer Rd., Minden.
April 3
7 p.m. Pine Grove Methodist Church, “A Picture of Calvary” play.
April 4
10 a.m. until 5 p.m. M.O.V.E. Easter Egg Hunt, 1102/1103 Henrietta White Blvd., Springhill.
Minden Farmers Market, downtown Minden. Vendors needed. https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2484/campaign/8448 .
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.
April 25
Phillip’s Cottage 5K Run, 217 W. Union St., Minden. Get race details and register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/PhillipSCottageK .
Word of the Day: Liege
Phonetic: /liege/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
concerned with or relating to the relationship between a feudal superior and a vassal.
“an oath of fealty and liege homage”
Part of Speech: Noun
liege; plural noun: lieges; noun: liege lord; plural noun: liege lords
a feudal superior or sovereign.
“the Scots obeyed him as their liege lord”
Jodie Michelle Fish, 52, 100 block Airport Rd., Springhill: arrested March 18 by Springhill on multiple warrants for possession and possession with intent to distribute CDS Sch. I and CDS Sch. II narcotics. Bond set $105,500.
Melody Elaine Carter, 34, 200 block Langley Rd., Sarepta: arrested March 19 by WPSO on warrants for speeding, driving under suspension. Bond set $1,500.
Rickey B. Allen, 62, Stanley St., Minden: arrested March 19 by Minden PD on multiple warrants. Bond set $1,200.
Curtis Dale Young, Jr., 67, 800 block 3rd St. SE, Springhill: arrested March 22 by WPSO on warrants for driving under suspension, unregistered vehicle. Bond set $1,242.50.
Kimberly Powell, 48, Nursery Rd., Sibley: arrested March 21 by Minden PD on fugitive warrant fro Webster Parish SO. No bond set.
Caitlin Mixon, 40, 200 block West Union, Minden: arrested March 21 by Minden PD on multiple bench warrants. Bond set $20,000 surety or $1,500 cash.
Arthur Thompson, 32, 900 block East St., Sarepta: arrested March 20 by Minden PD for driving under the influence, driving under suspension, careless operation of a vehicle. Bond set $2,750.
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.
Hazel Marie Johnson Peck
November 5, 1932 – March 18, 2026
Springhill
Visitation: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.
Memorial service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
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.)
Shondreka McGlothern is wanted in connection with an offense that occurred in December, 2025.
Upon completion of the investigation, an arrest warrant was obtained for the offenses related to the incident. The following are the charges and associated bond:
• One count theft. Bond $500.
One count access device fraud. Bond $750.
Anyone with information on Shondreka McGlothern is asked to contact Detective Matthew Hicks (318-639-7776) or Detective Brandon Curry (318-268-7044) of the Minden Police Department.
All information will be strictly confidential.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Pat Culverhouse
A Bossier City man suspected of being in the country illegally is sitting in the parish prison after he was stopped by a Minden police officer for traffic violations on Interstate 20 Wednesday.
Jarvin Diaz Vasquez, 30, is being held on a detainer from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after he allegedly failed an attempt to avoid the traffic stop, Chief of Police Jared McIver said.
MPD Officer Cody James reportedly measured, by radar, a van driven by Vasquez traveling 90 miles per hour in the posted 70 zone. When the officer reportedly initiated emergency lights and siren, the van continued traveling west at the high rate of speed.
A traffic accident in the west bound lane of the highway had traffic at a standstill and after a roughly two-mile chase, the van reportedly was forced to a halt. Vasquez was removed from the van after reportedly ignoring multiple commands to step out of the vehicle.
According to the incident report, Vasquez carried no identification and did not speak English. When ICE was contacted, he reportedly was identified and placed on detainer.
Vasquez is charged with speeding (90/70), no drivers license and flight from an officer. Bond on the traffic charges has been set at $1,200. He is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The City of Minden is proud to recognize the one-year anniversary of its Main Street Director, marking a year of meaningful progress in downtown revitalization and broader economic development efforts throughout the community.
Over the past year, the Minden Main Street program has focused on strengthening its organizational structure, supporting local businesses, enhancing downtown’s appearance, and expanding events that bring residents and visitors into the historic district.
Since the beginning of Sarah Overall’s tenure as Main Street Director, a new 501c(3) nonprofit organization, Friends of Minden Mainstreet, was established to support Main Street initiatives. She has worked closely with a committed board of directors and volunteers to build a strong foundation for long-term growth. Board members signed re-commitment letters outlining their responsibilities, and a board retreat was held to develop strategic goals and priorities for the organization. Main Street America was on site in the fall for an assessment and help build a 5year strategic plan.
Community engagement and events have played a key role in revitalizing downtown. In 2025, Main Street helped host and support more than 20 events in downtown Minden, including popular community gatherings such as Grilling on Main, Bites & Beats, Skeletour, Jambin’ on Main, Main to Main Trade Days, Shop the Block, Shop Small Saturday, and the launch of the Minden Farmers Market. These events helped draw residents and visitors to the historic district while supporting local businesses.
These activities also created over 63 volunteer opportunities, highlighting strong community involvement and local pride in downtown Minden.
Significant progress was also made in fundraising and partnerships. In 2025, more than $47,000 in sponsorships and funding was secured to support downtown programming and events.
Business growth has been another positive outcome. Six new businesses opened within the Main Street district, creating 24 full-time jobs and 33 part-time jobs and bringing new services and opportunities to the downtown area.
Efforts were also made to enhance the appearance and experience of downtown Minden. Improvements included the installation of new flower beds on Depot Hill, the addition of ten hanging flower baskets throughout the district, seasonal fall and Christmas decorations along the boulevard, and the repaving of a downtown parking lot to create additional parking for visitors and businesses. Additional trash receptacles were also installed throughout the district to improve cleanliness and convenience for both visitors and merchants.
Marketing and branding initiatives further increased awareness of downtown Minden. The district was rebranded with a new logo and visual identity, a media company was contracted to manage digital marketing and social media outreach, and a billboard campaign in Bossier City promoted downtown Minden as a destination for shopping, dining, and events.
While revitalizing downtown has been a central focus, her role also includes supporting economic development efforts across the entire City of Minden.
Over the past year, the Director has participated in several statewide and regional economic development programs and conferences, representing Minden and strengthening relationships with partners across Louisiana and the region. Participation in Louisiana Economic Development (LED) conferences and educational programs has helped bring new strategies and best practices back to the community.
The City has also partnered with Retail Strategies to support retail recruitment efforts and identify opportunities for new businesses. In addition, meetings have been held with area business and industry executives to discuss opportunities for expansion, investment, and economic growth within the city.
In the year 2025, nearly 30 new occupancy licenses were issued for new businesses across the city, reflecting strong economic activity and continued confidence in Minden as a place to invest and grow.
Efforts to support community growth extended beyond business development. As part of welcoming new residents, Sarah delivered nearly 20 “Welcome to Minden” gift bags, helping create a positive first impression and strengthen community connection.
Community partnerships have also played an important role in supporting economic activity and downtown engagement. The Main Street program collaborated with numerous local organizations and events including Christmas in Minden, the Scottish Tartan Festival, the Webster Parish Fair, the Witches Ride, The Vintage Car Club Car Show, and the Live Nativity, helping bring additional visitors and energy to the downtown area. Working closely with the Greater Minden Chamber and Visit Webster Tourism offices have all been prioritized.
“In my first nine months overseeing the Main Street program and economic development, we’ve laid the groundwork for transformative growth in Minden,” said Sarah Overall, Economic Development Director. “The progress we’ve seen in downtown revitalization, business development, and community engagement is just the beginning. 2025 showed us what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared vision. Even in just nine months leading these efforts, we’ve made meaningful progress, from downtown events to business growth, that is being felt across Minden. In 2026, we will build on that momentum with a continued focus on investment, partnerships, and creating a thriving environment for
businesses and families across our entire city.”
“As mayor, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made this past year under Sarah Overall’s leadership. She, along with the board and volunteers, has helped build a strong foundation for downtown Minden. But this is just the beginning. Our focus now is to build on that momentum by driving more business growth, attracting investment, and continuing to strengthen downtown as a key part of our city’s future. We’re moving in the right direction, and I look forward to continuing that progress,” said Mayor Nick Cox.
Looking ahead, the Main Street program will continue expanding events, strengthening partnerships, supporting business recruitment, and enhancing the historic character of downtown while contributing to the continued growth and vitality of the City of Minden.
For updates on downtown initiatives and upcoming events, follow the City of Minden & Minden Main Street on social media or visit the City of Minden website.
By Pat Culverhouse
Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker and his command staff gave a group of parish high school students a close-up look at how 15 minutes of partying might lead to a lifetime of regret.
Students participating in the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce’s Webster Youth Leadership program were put through simulated activities Wednesday showing the dangers of impairment due to drugs or alcohol.
Prior to the simulated program, students toured the Sheriff’s Office and heard Parker outline the duties of his office and the responsibilities faced by deputies.
“My duty as your sheriff, and the duty of all our deputies, is to serve all the citizens of our parish and to ensure their safety,” he told the group. “My greatest pleasure in this office is to be able to serve.”
Parker said he was proud of all the students who were part of the Chamber’s leadership program.
“I congratulate all of you on your commitment to accept a leadership role in your schools and in your communities,” he said. “We are happy to be a part of helping you make Webster Parish a great place to live, work and raise families.”
During outside activities, Maj. Bobby Igo III placed goggles on the students to simulate the effects of impairment, both when students attempted to walk and while navigating (a golf cart) through an obstacle course.
“We want you to feel the effects so you will understand why it is imperative that you do not operate a vehicle under the influence,” Igo told the students. “Absolutely the worse part of the job of a law enforcement officer is to report a death to a victim’s loved ones.”
The “Vessels: Work by Craig Watson” Exhibition will formally open at Central ARTSTATION, 801 Crockett Street in downtown Shreveport, on Wednesday, March 25.
The exhibition featuring the wood-turned works of Louisiana artist Craig Watson will continue through May 8, 2026.
Watson uses reclaimed and salvaged wood to create his one-of-a-kind bowls and vessels that reveal the natural beauty, grain, and character hidden in each piece of timber.
“Each piece of wood is my canvas,” said Watson, “Unlike a painter, I don’t paint an image on the canvas. Mother Nature unveils the secret world tucked beneath the grain of every piece. It is my vision to find what is hidden and merely bring out its inner beauty.”
Inspired by global travel and the long history of wood as a lasting material, Watson’s work celebrates craftsmanship, sustainability, and the story within every tree.
His travel history is extensive. “I look for like-minded people who share the passion of turning wood into art – a piece that can last for centuries,” Watson noted. Michael Sinclair of the Orkney Islands in Scotland, Diego Garcia of Venice, Italy; Emma Cook of Yorkshire, England; Mike Gable of Shreveport, Louisiana; Stuart Batty England of Colorado; and Mike Mahoney of California are Watson’s inspirations.
“My work is deeply influenced by the many artists I have known,” Craig said. “Yet my most frequent lessons come from the mistakes I make along the way.”
Watson visited the Forbidden City in Beijing, China, where he discovered that the entire city is constructed of wood. He was also “blessed” to see King Tut’s sarcophagus while it was on tour in Los Angeles. The sarcophagus is over 3,300 years old.
Since Watson is the owner of Impressions Advertising, he has had to establish good work ethics to allow him time for his craft. “Work hard. Work early. Work late,” advised Watson. He also follows “environmental ethics,” never cutting a living tree to use the wood for his art. Instead, he rescues wood that is already cut, discarded and on its way to the landfill or fireplace.
“I feel my work extends the life of a tree,” he said.
Craig began teaching himself woodturning in 2016. What started with a single lathe has grown into a passion – and a collection of four machines today!
The upcoming exhibition is being sponsored by Watson and the Shreveport Regional Arts Council. It will be open to the public during regular business hours at 801 Crockett Street in downtown Shreveport.
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court, Courtroom A, Monday, March 23:
BROWN, JUDITH TAYLOR
99660 Simple Burglary
Restitution owed to the victim is $1600, plus $240 fee = $1840 total
DICKEY, DARREUS DOMINIQUE
99899 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
LACROIX, TYLER REESE
99682 Simple Burglary
MENDENHALL, XIKERION D.
99363 Armed Robbery
Restitution owed to the victim per the impact statement- $800, plus $120 fee = $920 total
MILLER, GREGORY
100043 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)
ONEAL, ANGELO DEON
99454-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99454-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99454-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
ONEAL, ANGELO DEON
97747 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
STAGE, DUSTIN
99962 Simple Burglary
STAGE, DUSTIN
99822 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
VILLARD, CHARLES WARREN
99870 Cruelty To The Infirmed
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court, Courtroom B, Monday, March 23:
CRAVENS, ALLTON B.
98115B Second Degree Murder
DEAVER, ROBERT CHARLES
99968 Indecent Behavior with Juveniles
EDWARDS, ROTOYA C.
99938 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
Per report $2,085.70 to Dixie Mart, plus fee $312.85=$2,398.55
HAIR, DANIEL W.
99857 Simple Robbery
Restitution owed to the victim- $384 plus $57.60 fee = $441.60 total
HAIR, DANIEL W.
INCOMING Simple Battery
INCOMING Interfering with Emergency Communication
MORRIS, XAVIER T.
99527 Second Degree Battery
THORNTON, LASHONDA
98913 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
WEATHERS, TYKENDRICK
99894 Armed Robbery with the Use of a Firearm
At LAMA Animal Rescue: Dog (He came in with that name). Estimated at 10 years old.
Dog is a neutered male Chiweenie at a 20 chunky pounds
Dog 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.
Dog is looking for his retirement home! Chill with a little spunk left. He’s ready for a sunny spot on your couch and will make a great companion. He shares his room / pen with another smaller male dog named Az. They are BFFs!
Dog is up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines, microchipped & on flea/tick prevention. He is heartworm positive but has completed treatment. He will make a complete recovery, so do not let the HW+ status deter you! It will not cost you any extra – his treatment is complete. Consistent veterinary history of HW preventative is required to be considered for adoption. We will be checking!!!
Adoption Fee: $275
Interested? Please fill out the application at the link below:
https://forms.gle/id1eJGf1VnA7ftoW8
Or the PDF version on our website:
https://lamaanimalrescue.org/adopt
To schedule a meet-and-greet, you must fill out an application first.
We do not cat or kid 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.”
It’s getting closer to spring and I hope everyone’s green thumb is itching to dig in the soil.
More and more people are starting their tomatoes and peppers from seed. That helps with gardening with drawl. I’m also hearing of lost azalea blooms and other flowering trees and shrubs. March 16 was a disaster for gardeners that did not cover their plants. Here at the feed store we had to move everything in the warehouse for the night. I think that was a successful move. Like I said, Spring is almost here.
Did you know that you can change the color of your hydrangeas simply by the kind of fertilizer you use. Aluminum Sulfate is the thing to use to turn the color from white or pink to blue. It’s also a great product for azaleas, camellias, and gardenias. Aluminum sulfate helps to create an acid soil condition. Test the soil and if the pH is above 7.0, an application of this will be effective in lowering the soil pH to the 5.5 range which is desirable for growing acid loving plants. Use 1 lb. per 3 ft of height. Mix 1 lb. in 5 gallons of water and apply at the drip line of the shrub. Aluminum Sulfate can also be spread dry around the drip line and be watered in.
You don’t want blue hydrangeas, let’s use Magnesium Sulfate to encourage white blooms. This also helps prevent and control chlorosis(yellowing of plant foliage due to magnesium deficiencies. Apply once a month as needed. Mix 2 Tbl. per 1 gallon of water. Apply with any sprinkling can or hose feeder. soak the entire plant thoroughly. You can also use as a dry application by using 1 lb. per 100 square foot and water thoroughly.
There are lots of fertilizer tricks you can use. I’ll talk later on more of the tricks.
(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
Schedule for parish baseball and softball teams for the weekend beginning Thursday, March 19. Watch your Webster Parish Journal’s Tuesday edition for results.
Doyline
Panthers @ home vs Summerfield (Thursday)
Panthers @ Minden (Saturday)
Glenbrook
Apaches @ home vs Montgomery (Friday)
Lakeside
Warriors @ Many (Thursday)
Warriors @ home vs Grant (Monday)
Minden
Crimson Tide @ Northwood (Thursday)
Crimson Tide @ Saline (Friday)
Crimson Tide @ home vs Doyline (Saturday)
Crimson Tide @ home vs Homer (Monday)
Lady Tiders @ Southwood (Friday)
Congratulations to all Glenbrook School students who placed at the North Louisiana High School Literary Rally held at Louisiana Tech.
Glenbrook School has once again received the Sweepstakes Award for being the overall Division V winner. 37 of our 45 participating Glenbrook Students placed 1st – 4th, with 18 placing 1st and 16 placing 2nd. Six additional students received a Superior rating and one received an Excellent rating in the music division.
The students who placed Superior were invited and performed later that afternoon in the Honors Recital at LA Tech’s Howard Auditorium in the piano and voice categories. Glenbrook School is very proud of our students’ academic accomplishments and musical talent and looks forward to their participation in the State Literary Rally held on the LSU campus on April 18.
Thanks to parents and teachers for their continued encouragement and support of this event. This year marks the 19th year of 20 participating years that Glenbrook School has been named the Division V winner.
Music Rally Students:
Solo Category: Emma Kate Fox (Superior), Scarlett O’Glee (Superior), Sophie Williams (Excellent)
Trio Category: Grace Dennin, Lela Margaret Miller, and Anna Morales (Superior)
Piano Category: Madeline Farnell (Superior)
Five of these students also placed in a Literary Rally event.
Everyone keeps telling me, “this too shall pass.” It is a common phrase people say when they are trying to comfort someone going through a hard time… at the moment…me! (What’s new right?) And I believe them. I really do. I would just like an ETA (estimated time of arrival) on this “passing.”
Because if you’ve ever dealt with anxiety… the real, heart-racing, chest-tightening, can’t-catch-your-breath kind…you know the middle doesn’t feel like something that’s passing any time soon (if ever!)
Last weekend, I found myself in the ER. Not for the first time and not because something was physically wrong… but because my body had fully convinced me that there was.
That’s the tricky thing about anxiety. It doesn’t politely knock and say, “Hey, just a heads up, you’re overthinking again” No, it kicks the door in and sets off every alarm in your body at once.
See above symptoms mentioned above and sprinkle in the fact that your thoughts spiral faster than you can keep up with them. And logic? Logic is nowhere to be found.
In those moments, “this too shall pass” feels less like a promise and more like… a suggestion. A hopeful one, sure…but not one that feels real in the middle of it. Because the middle is where it’s hardest. The middle is where minutes feel like hours. Where your mind convinces you this isn’t temporary. Where you have zero ability to be rational…What if it doesn’t pass this time? What if this is something bigger this time?
We say “this too shall pass” like a period at the end of a sentence. But when you’re living it, it feels like a giant question mark and I think that’s the part we don’t talk about enough.
We love encouraging words. We love quick reminders. We love tying things up neatly with truth…and don’t get me wrong, it is truth. But what about the space between the beginning and the passing? What about the sitting in it?
The deep breaths that don’t quite feel deep enough. The prayers whispered over and over because you don’t know what else to do. The quiet moments where you’re just trying to convince yourself to stay calm… to stay present… to stay. That takes strength too. Actually, if I am being completely honest…it might take the MOST strength.
I’ve learned that passing doesn’t always look like instant peace. Sometimes it looks like choosing not to run. Choosing not to spiral further. Choosing to sit in the discomfort and trust God right there in the middle of it.
Not after it. Not once it’s over. But in it. Because even when it doesn’t feel like it…He’s there too!
And maybe that’s what “this too shall pass” is really meant to remind us. Not that we need to rush through hard moments or pretend they don’t affect us.. but that we won’t stay there forever. That the feeling or situation isn’t permanent! (Even if it feels like it is!)
I still don’t have an ETA. I still wish I could fast-forward through certain moments, but I’m learning that I don’t actually need a timeline to make it through. Just a little faith…a few steady breaths…and the reminder that even the longest moments… eventually pass.
Even this one.
(Paige Gurgainers is a mom of three girls, digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal.)
2016 GMC Terrain – $6,000
Has 114,000 miles
Call 870-904-4863 or
318-355-3561
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Petit Jury, Judge Charles Smith, Monday, March 23:
BARNES, WESLEY D.
99212 Simple Criminal Damage To Property
Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
Restitution owed to the victim $1,500, plus $225 fee = $1,725 total Balance as of 2/1/26 $925
CROW, SHANE
99863 Aggravated Assault With a Firearm
FRAZIER, DELANDRY
99071 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
HILL, KAVION D
99619-CT.1 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
99619-CT.2 Attempted Second Degree Murder
HUDSON, BRIAN RAYNARD
99472 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS
LILLEY, TIMOTHY D.
99200 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
MASON, JACOBY
98941 Vehicular Homicide
MITCHELL, ADERRIUS DESHUN
99663 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
SMITH, DANIEL
99900-CT.1 Monetary Instrument Abuse
99900-CT.2 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Petit Jury, Judge Mike Nerren, Monday, March 23:
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
MORRIS, XAVIER T.
99527 Second Degree Battery
Friday
Sunny, with a high near 84. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Friday Night
Clear, with a low around 59. South wind around 5 mph.
Saturday
Sunny, with a high near 87. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night
Clear, with a low around 62.
Sunday
Sunny, with a high near 88.
Sunday Night
Clear, with a low around 60.
Monday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.
*Information provided by National Weather Service.
Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .
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 27
6 p.m. Easter Fam Fest, Frank Anthony Park, Springhill. Presented by North Webster Community Church.
March 26
7 a.m. until 1 p.m. Blood Drive, Minden Medical Center, 1 Medical Plaza, 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.
March 27
Deadline to accept Phillip’s 5K Run sponsorships, Minden. Get race details and register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/PhillipSCottageK .
11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., Easter EGGstravaganza, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Rd., Minden.
5 until 8 p.m. registration for the Sibley Volunteer Fire Department’s 47th Annual Bass Tournament on Lake Bistineau.
March 28
Sibley Volunteer Fire Department’s 47th Annual Bass Tournament on Lake Bistineau. Weigh in is 3 p.m.
March 29
2 p.m. Community Egg Hunt, MHS Football Stadium, sponsored by Young Women’s Service Club Minden.
March 31
5 until 6:30 p.m. Families and commented are invited to Brown Upper Elementary World Social Studies Fair. Sponsors are sought. Contact Principal Tessa Flournoy, 318-539-2818.
6 until 7 p.m., Weeds and Weed Control with Gather & Grow, LSU AgCenter, 1202 Homer Rd., Minden.
April 1-April 9
2026 Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Springhill, North Webster. Tickets: chamber@springhillla.com .
April 4
10 a.m. until 5 p.m. M.O.V.E. Easter Egg Hunt, 1102/1103 Henrietta White Blvd., Springhill.
Minden Farmers Market, downtown Minden. Vendors needed. https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2484/campaign/8448 .
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.
April 25
Phillip’s Cottage 5K Run, 217 W. Union St., Minden. Get race details and register here: https://runsignup.com/Race/LA/Minden/PhillipSCottageK .
Maurcionio Iverson, 36, 100 block Dowell Lane, Minden: arrested March 16 by Probation and Parole for parole violation. No bond set.
Samuel Paul Moya, 19, 300 block 7th St. SE, Springhill: arrested March 17 by Springhill PD for unauthorized use a moveable. Bond set $15,000.
Charles Bruce Striplin, 62, Grant Circle, Doyline: arrested March 17 by WPSO for attempted unauthorized entry, criminal trespass. Bond set $20,001.
Lawrence D. Smith, 56, 2600 block Main St., Gibsland: arrested March 13 by Minden PD for misdemeanor theft. Bond set $500.
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.
