By Pat Culverhouse

A second suspect has been taken into custody in connection with a shooting incident in late May which left a Minden man wounded.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said 24-year-old Xavier Warren, a resident of the 800 block of Fincher Rd., turned himself in Thursday morning at police headquarters.

Warren reportedly was booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center where he is charged on a warrant with three counts as principal to attempted second degree murder and one count of principal to assault by drive-by shooting. His bond has been set at $900,000.

“Our detectives and officers had been really turning up the pressure in their search for him,” McIver said. “It was just a matter of time.”

Warren is charged in connection with the Friday, May 29 shooting which occurred in the vicinity of Talton and Peach streets. Multiple shots reportedly were fired at the victim, apparently as the result of an altercation earlier in the evening.

Just one day after the shooting, police arrested 23-year-old Kendrick D. Taylor of Minden and charged him as the person who pulled the trigger. He is charged with attempted second degree murder and assault by drive-by shooting.

Taylor is currently in the parish prison under a $950,000 bond.

McIver said detectives are still investigating.

“We know there were multiple persons in the vehicle at the time of the shooting and we’re still developing leads on other potential accessories,” he said. “We don’t intend to stop until we have everybody involved.”

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Charles Sanderford is wanted in connection with an incident that occurred on July 2. Patrol secured an arrest warrant following the incident. 

The following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Charles Sanderford:

1. One count of aggravated flight from an officer with a surety bond amount of $25,000.

2. One count of exceeding maximum speed limit with a surety bond amount of $400.

3. One count of lamps and turn signal required with a surety bond amount of $300.00

4. One count of driving on roadway laned for traffic with a surety bond amount of $400.

5. One count of driver must be licensed with a surety bond amount of $300.

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

All information will be confidential.

Lee Spinks is wanted in connection with an incident that occurred on April 8. Detectives secured an arrest warrant following the incident. 

The following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Lee Spinks:

1.       One count of forgery with a surety bond amount of $20,000.

Please get in touch with Detective Brandon Curry (318-268-7044) of the Minden Police Department if you have information regarding the whereabouts of Lee Spinks.

All information will be confidential. 

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Pat Culverhouse

In the evening hours of July 9, 2021, Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office Sgt. William “Billy” Earl Collins Jr. was shot and killed in the line of duty while answering a disturbance call in Doyline where he was a part-time police officer.

He was 53 years old.

Exactly five years later, on the morning of July 9, 2026, a portion of LA Hwy. 163 in his home town was dedicated to his memory. A sign proclaiming the Sgt. William “Billy” Earl Collins Jr. Memorial Highway was unveiled to honor his sacrifice.

“Five years ago today we received the phone call that every law enforcement family does not want to get,” Collins’ daughter, Lauren Curry, told the crowd gathered for the occasion. “He was only .3 miles from his recliner. It was walking distance.”

Curry said the Collins family has accepted they now belong to the family known as Law Enforcement Survivors. They have also learned what it means to have support from more than just family.

“Our support system is a small town,” she said. “Doyline and others have been our support. And we choose happiness received from that support. And now, we can see the sign. That’s what matters, that everyone who sees it will remember his name.”

Sheriff Jason Parker said he remembers the night he received the phone call.

“I remember the emotions. But I remember he was there, doing his job. He was already off duty that night, but he was still ready to do his duty,” Parker said. “He was one of a kind. He won’t ever be forgotten.”

Doyline Chief of Police Robbie Hayden, who recently retired as Patrol Commander at the Sheriff’s Office, told the crowd that a day does not go by that he doesn’t think of Collins.

“Every time I cranked up my mower he would come over,” Hayden remembered. 

State Representative Wayne McMahen, who emceed the event, introduced the bill in the state Legislature dedicating the portion of highway to Collins.

“Memories are bittersweet,” McMahen told the group. “We keep them and we move ahead.”

McMahen issued special thanks to the state Dept. of Transportation and Development (DOTD) for their assistance in expediting the designation.

“Usually these things take time, but I contacted David North with DOTD and explained we had a small window, that we wanted to do this on this particular date,” he said. “They helped make it happen.”

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of July 3 through 9. Civil suits are public record.

July 4
Ally Bank vs. Samuel L. Booker, executory process.

July 6
Ronald Edward Whatley, succession over $125K.
Michael S. Wooten on behalf of Lacy Wooten vs. Stan Ezernack, protective order.
Demitrius Ruffin vs. DeCorrey Bridges, custody.
Capital One vs. Anthony McDaniel, monies due.
Capital One vs. Rose M. Gleason, monies due.
Crown Asset Management LLC vs. Jennifer Toms, suit on note.

July 7
Paul A. Sweet, succession over $125K.
Destiny Crawford vs. Brandon Smith, protective order.
Crown Asset Management LLC vs. Jennifer Toms, suit on note.
Mariner Finance LLC vs. Chavez Trammell, monies due.
John Henderson Taylor, succession over $125K.
PCA Acquisitions V LLC vs. Thomas McVay, monies due.
PCA Acquisitions V LLC vs. Deborah Leece, monies due.

July 8
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC vs. Kim Deschler, monies due.
Rocket Mortgage LLC vs. Whitt Christopher Smock, executory process.
Pearlie Mae Mitchell, succession under $125K.
PCA Acquisitions V LLC vs. Amy Henderson, monies due.
Olima Eason, Rodney Eason Jr. individually and on behalf of minor child vs. Anthony Torres, personal injury.
Rhonda McRae Taylor vs. Paul Richard Taylor, interdiction.
Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC vs. Justin Lewis, monies due.

July 9
David Lee Fox, success under $125K.
Jennifer Thompson vs. Trimell Williams, protective order.

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Planned Parenthood is resuming billing Medicaid for services other than abortion after being cut off for most of a year.

According to the Associated Press, the defunding, which was mandated in President Donald Trump’s big tax and policy law last year, has been blamed in the closure of multiple clinics as well as a reduction in the number of Planned Parenthood patients being screened for breast cancer or tested for sexually transmitted infections.

The Medicaid billing was allowed to resume Sunday.

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Willis – male orange tabby at Minden Animal Control.

Intake # 26140 “Willis” is approximately 8 weeks old, social and laid back. Great with other cats. He has been started on age appropriate vaccines, deworming, flea prevention, and is litter box trained.

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

Adoption fee- $30

Adoption application- forms.gle/TfS5pe939gbP4t2i6 .

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

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This is an article that is different than my others.  I’m talking to the guys and gals that love to hunt deer in the fall.  I’m talking about the true hunters, the ones that start getting ready as soon as the last day of the season.  Spring food plots are growing good, the deer are having their babies, and they are eating the protein for the horns.

July is a good time to start killing the grass and be thinking about the fall season.  One thing I would recommend is to take a soil sample now so you can take of the soil in the right way.  In our area, we usually need to lime.  Get about a cup full of soil in several different places and mix together.  LSU Ag center will do the testing.  The test forms can be found at the LSU Ag center website.  It costs $11 a sample and this time of year it does not take long to get the results.

If you don’t want to wait, you could be already putting out lime so it can get started working.  There is fast acting lime that does a really good job and quickly too.  It was developed specifically for fall food plots.  Now a lot of people use it on their yards.  It takes 8 bags to cover an acre.  You can also use a regular pellet lime but it takes a long time to do any good.  

We are currently booking and ordering the plot mixes and attractants.  We have a lot of them to pick from and we do our best to get the best for our area.  They will arrive in the middle of August and we also look forward to seeing all of our customers.  The fall season is a huge part of our business, everyone is looking forward to the season of cooler weather and the deer hunting.  If you have something special that you would like to try just come buy and see me and I’ll try to find it.  

You can plant tomatoes, beans, and other garden plants this time of year.  I’ve got a few tomatoes getting ready.

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal. Email Mitzi questions at  mitzithomas40@yahoo.com.)

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Glenbrook Senior Franklin Bridwell was elected Governor of the great State of Louisiana at the 2026 Boys State program which took place at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond July 21-27.

Brody Walker, also a Senior at Glenbrook, was appointed an assistant District Attorney in the program that allows student “citizens” to create and run a functional government at the city, parish, and state levels.

Over 200 young men attended the week-long, hands-on leadership program sponsored by the Louisiana Department of the American Legion. At the conclusion of the Louisiana Boys State program this year, Bridwell was invited to attend Boys National, which includes only 100 young men from across the United States.

“It was a great honor to be selected to represent Glenbrook at Boys State,” Franklin said. “It taught me and 220 other high-performing students the ins and outs of local and state government. While demonstrating leadership and unity, it also taught many of us about the importance of civic engagement.”

“Since I want to study law in college, I found it very interesting. There is no other activity like it anywhere else,” said Franklin, who is interested in academics, drama, and athletics at Glenbrook.

When his counselor asked him if he was interested in attending Boys State, Brody Walker said “sign me up!” That’s not surprising, since his mom, Emily Hardaway Walker, was a “citizen” at Louisiana Girls State 30 years ago.

“Everyone is elected to a City, Parish or State position. I was an assistant District Attorney. But my friend, Franklin, was elected Governor,” Brody said proudly.

He was also a member of the House of Representatives. “We created Bills and got them passed and sent to the Senate,” he explained. “I got one passed by the House.”

What was Brody’s biggest take-away? “We all really have a voice…voting for officials…laws…Our voice matters. We ARE the voice.” Another take-away was leadership. “I was in the courtroom and had to be a facilitator. I can use that leadership skill in school and the community.”

Brody’s Senior year will be busy with Student Council (vice president), drum line, cross-country running and tennis. “I’m always busy, busy, busy,” he acknowledged.

During the week of Boys State, Brody (and probably Franklin) was busy, busy, busy making friends. “They assigned each of us to a parish, and that’s a lot of new friends. Some will be friends for life.”

–

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Do you know a young professional under 40 who’s making a difference in the Greater Minden community?

The 15 Under 40 Young Professional Awards presented by TG Companies, LLC recognizes leaders who are making an impact through their careers, community involvement, and commitment to making our area a better place to live, work, and grow.

Whether they’re leading in the workplace, volunteering behind the scenes, mentoring others, or going above and beyond to serve our community, we want to hear their story.

Help us celebrate the next generation of leaders by submitting a nomination today!

Nominations close August 14.

Submit your nomination here: https://greatermindenchamber.com/15under40/

Let’s recognize the people who are helping write the next chapter of this community.

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By Paige Gurgainers

Current players, alumni and community members will have the opportunity to step onto the field next month while supporting the future of Lakeside High School Baseball.

The Lakeside Baseball Fundraiser Coed Softball Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Minden Recreation Department softball fields. Proceeds from the tournament will go toward purchasing new uniforms for the Lakeside baseball program.

Organizers are inviting businesses, families, alumni and friends of the program to form teams for a day of friendly competition and community fellowship.

The tournament is open to coed teams and will feature a maximum of 20 teams. Registration is $250 per team, while teams made up entirely of Lakeside alumni can register for $200. Teams may also purchase unlimited home runs for an additional $50.

Games will follow either a 7 men/3 women or 6 men/4 women roster format. Umpire fees are $20 per game, paid at the plate. The tournament champions will receive their entry fee back as the grand prize.

To ensure fair competition, organizers note that rolled or shaved bats are prohibited, and all softballs must be Pro Classic stamped.

Even those who don’t plan to play can still support the cause. Donations are being accepted to help offset the cost of new uniforms and continue investing in the student-athletes who represent Lakeside.

The event reflects the continued support Lakeside alumni and the community have shown the baseball program over the years, bringing together former players and local supporters to invest in the next generation of Warriors.

Those interested in registering a team or making a donation can contact Chase Spatafora at 318-243-6122 or CJ Watts at 318-268-4211.

The fundraiser carries the theme, “Rise and Play with Honor,” inspired by Colossians 3:23, encouraging participants to compete with integrity while supporting a worthwhile cause.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, July 13:

ANDREWS, FRANCISCOS ROSHUN
100443-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100443-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ARBER, SHERRYL D.
64,035 Illegal Poss Of Stolen Things (Felony)

BEALE, JUSTIN CLAY
100228 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty- Eight Grams)

BEALE, JUSTIN CLAY
99537 Indecent Behavior With A Juvenile

BRAZZEL, JODIE LYNN
100459 CT 1 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
100459 CT 2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

BROWN, FLOYD JAMES
99923 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BROWN, STEVEN PHILLIP
99918 Simple Burglary

BURDEN, AMANDA LYNN
100414 CT 1 Criminal Trespassing
100414 CT 2 Telephone Harassment

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
100243 Cruelty To The Infirmed

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
100071 Violation Of Protective Order

CASTLE, DIMITRIUS
100240 Domestic Abuse Battery – Strangulation – 1st Offense

COCHRAN, JAMES D.
61,100 Driving While Under The Influence 1St Offense

COCHRAN, JAMES D.
T-1199-98 Expired Driver’s License
T-1200-98 Careless Operation Of Motor Vehicle
T-1201-98 No Proof Of Insurance

COOKE, JARVIS JUJUAN
99892 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

EASON, DESTINY SUEANNE
100206 Theft Under $1,000

EVANS, SHANA L
100391 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or
Controlled Dangerous Substance

FLOURNOY, JEFFERY LANE
100460 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

GILES, JOSEPH ERIC
99847 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

GILES, KEVIN LEE
99393 Simple Burglary

GILES, KEVIN LEE
T043225 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign
T043225A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GILES, KEVIN LEE
T030825 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

GREEN, TADARRIUS
100200-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
100200-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

HAYS, ASHTON BRIAR
99766 CT 1 False Imprisonment
99766 CT 2 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

HEIDLEBERG, TEJUANA
64,035 Illegal Poss Of Stolen Things (Felony)

HENDON, DESHUN R.
98967 CT 1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
98967 CT 2 Public Bribery

HENDON, DESHUN R.
98200 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

HILLMAN, JASON MICHAEL VAUGHN
99010A Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
Review Teen Challenge intern program and progress
Please make forfeiture of Firearm part of any plea/sentencing agreement

HUMPHREYS, STEVEN MICHAEL
100422 Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution

JERGENS, II, HERBERT MARSHALL
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Third Offense
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

JOHNSON, MICHAEL RAY
100385 CT 1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
100385 CT 2 Obscenity

JOHNSON, ROBERTO M.
100234 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

LARY, RANDALL GENE
98287 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

LARY, RANDALL GENE
100249 Ct 1 Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
100249 Ct 2 Failure To Report An Accident And/Or Provide Proper Identification (Damages Over $500)

LEWIS, SHAINA R
99916 Simple Burglary

LOFTIN, BERNALDO
100045 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

MARTIN, AMANDA
100456 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

MCKINNEY, JUSTIN KAYNE
100392 Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment

MOSS, GLENN DAVID
100456A-CT.1 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
100456A-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
100456A-CT.3 Failure To Obey A Traffic Device

PRICE, MARIAH
100394 CT 1 Simple Battery
100394 CT 2 Simple Battery

PROCELL, XANDER REESE
98044 CT 1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
98044 CT 2 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle
Possible Restitution pending in this matter.

SELLERS, TEQUILLA MONAIA
100461 CT 1 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
100461 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
Restitution due: $1377.40 + 206.60 = $1584

THOMAS, PEYTON LEON
99334 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

WALKER, TAREZ MARCEE’
100427 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100053 Theft Under $1,000

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100247 Obscenity

WHITE, ALVIN LADANTA
INCOMING Aggravated Assault With a Firearm

WILSON, BRADLEY MANNING
100151 Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault

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Latest assessment results reflect years of sustained academic progress as Louisiana raises student expectations

BATON ROUGE — Louisiana students achieved the highest overall Mastery+ rate in state history, according to new assessment data released today by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). Results from the 2026 Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) show a two-percentage-point increase in students scoring Mastery or Advanced (Mastery+) in grades 3-12. The increase to 36% marks the highest overall statewide performance on record for grades 3-12.

“I’m proud of the progress Louisiana students continue to make, and grateful to the educators making it possible,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “At the same time, we cannot be satisfied and must build on this success as we raise expectations.”

2026 LEAP Results

The LEAP results released today are from the 2025-2026 school year. Students improved or maintained Mastery+ in 28 of the 31 grades and courses assessed by LEAP (90%). Detailed school and school system results are now available on the LDOE website. Highlights include:

Academic progress extends across grades, subjects, and school systems

• Grades 3-8: Mastery+ increased one point in math, two in social studies and science, and held steady in English language arts (ELA).
• High School: Mastery+ increased five points in civics, three in English II and U.S. history, two in Algebra I, and held steady in biology and geometry. English I declined by two.
• School Systems: Almost nine out of 10 Louisiana school systems improved or maintained their 3-12 Mastery+ rate, with 75% improving from 2025 to 2026, 10% maintaining, and 15% declining.

Math continues to improve as Louisiana expands its comprehensive numeracy strategy

• Grades 3-8: Math Mastery+ increased one percentage point overall, with every grade level increasing or holding steady. 
• High School: Mastery+ increased two points in Algebra I and remained the same in geometry.

Students making strong gains under the new Freedom Framework social studies standards

• Grades 3-8: Social studies Mastery+ increased two points overall, with every grade level increasing or holding steady. Since 2023, Mastery+ is up seven percentage points overall.
• High School: Mastery+ increased five points in civics and three in U.S. history.

“Sustained improvement comes from intentionally doing the right work in classrooms every day,” said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson. “These encouraging results provide educators with a roadmap to strengthen instruction, model successful practices, and help more students reach Mastery.”

Years of Sustained Academic Growth

Louisiana’s highest-ever statewide Mastery+ rate reflects years of sustained investment in teachers, strong classroom instruction, and a back-to-basics focus on foundational academic priorities. Since 2021, statewide Mastery+ has improved or held steady every year in grades 3-8 and four of the past five years in grades 3-12.

In May, a national report from researchers at Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth ranked Louisiana first among states in reading growth, second in math growth, and the only state to surpass pre-pandemic achievement levels in both subjects.

First LEAP Results Under Grow. Achieve. Thrive.

The 2026 LEAP results are the first that will contribute to School Performance Scores under Louisiana’s revised accountability system, Grow. Achieve. Thrive. LEAP data is a measure used to calculate School Performance Scores, which help provide a broader picture of school and system performance. 

Building on years of progress, Grow. Achieve. Thrive. sets three clear expectations for every student: grow academically each year, reach proficiency in core subjects, and graduate ready for a career, college, or service.

Because the revised system uses new measures and a higher bar, some school and system ratings may look different when the first official scores are released later this year. The largest changes are at the high school level, with a greater emphasis on academic growth, proficiency, and readiness after graduation.

About LEAP

The Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) measures student knowledge and skills in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Student performance is reported across five achievement levels: Unsatisfactory, Approaching Basic, Basic, Mastery, and Advanced.

Assessment results help teachers identify student strengths and learning needs, guide classroom instruction, and measure how well schools and school systems are preparing students for future success

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 94. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 77. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.

Saturday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.

Sunday

Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Sunday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73.

Monday

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

July – Every Tuesday

2 until 4 p.m. K-4th grade, Lakeview Methodist Church, Minden, crafts, games, and snacks.  July 28 we will have a movie and popcorn. Come join us for a month of summer fun – we can’t wait to see you!  Please wear clothing that you can paint or get messy in. Register at: LakeviewMinden.com .

July 11

7 p.m., Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC Building, Springhill. Special guests will be Rhonda Neal and Mackenzie Branton.

July 13 – 17

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

July 21

9 until 10 a.m., Veterans Meet and Greet coffee, Webster Parish Council on Aging, Sheppard St., Minden.

July 23

10 a.m. Town of Sibley: Identity Theft Community Awareness session, Sibley Town Hall. Call 318-377-0345.

July 24-26

6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. Saturday, 10:45 a.m. Sunday, Vacation Bible School, Pine Grove, Methodist Church, 4549 Lewisville Rd., Minden. 

July 26 – 31

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

August 2

1 p.m. Backpack Give Away, Beech Springs Baptist Church, 15910 US-80 Minden, pre-K through 5th grades. First come, first served. A parent must be with the child in order for them to receive a backpack. For more information, email jennyogle83@gmail.com or call 318-344-4919.

August 14

Nomination deadline for 15 Under 40 Top Young Professionals. greatermindenchamber.com/15under40.

August 15

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Rooted Women’s Conference, North Acres Baptist Church, 1852 Lewisville Road, Minden. This is a day for women who strive to be rooted in The Word. Hear from our keynote speaker, Stephanie Smithson, as she focuses on spiritual understanding and biblical literacy along with our multi-generational panel of ladies, who will describe what being rooted in Christ means to them. Come for a day of acoustic worship, fellowship, teaching and food! Your $30 ticket includes the conference and a light lunch provided by Hugh Wood Catering. Childcare is provided. Registration is open through July 31. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/PublicRegistrations/Event?linkString=ZTc4OTQ2Y2EtZmM3Ny00MWM2LWE2NmUtYjQzMzAwZmUyZDgx .

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Word of the Day: Burgeon

Phonetic: /bur· geon/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition

to grow or develop quickly

The market for collectibles has burgeoned in recent years.

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Loading crossword puzzle. One moment please.

Play Sudoku online!

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The second Thursday of every month, there’s a party called Bites & Beats at Miller Quarters Park in Minden. Food trucks, music, games for the kids – Something for everyone.

Photos from last night (July 9) are by WPJ staffer Kelly Yates.

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Jo Rogers
January 15, 1936 — July 2, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026, First Baptist Church West Chapel, Minden.
Memorial service: 11 a.m., immediately following visitation.

Martha Kirkpatrick
September 2, 1949 — June 27, 2026
Minden
Visitation: 2 until 4 p.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Burial: Gardens of Memory at a later date.

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

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

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By Pat Culverhouse

Operating an off-road vehicle on a parish roadway got the attention of a couple of Minden’s top lawmen and the resulting traffic stop has led to a more serious charge against a local man.

Chief of Police Jared McIver reportedly stopped 32-year-old Brent Duane Sikes around 1:45 Tuesday at the intersection of Pine St. and Methodist Camp Rd. for driving his dirt bike on the roadway.

With the assistance of Ward Marshal Dan Weaver, a search reportedly uncovered 1.135 grams of methamphetamines on Sikes’ person. 

Sikes reportedly is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center where he is charged with possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) and operating an off-road vehicle on a roadway. His bond has been set at $2,501.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish School Board members will apparently try again to get voters in Consolidated School District (CSD) 3 (south Webster) to approve a proposal to rededicate property tax funds.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Superintendent Johnny Rowland introduced an agenda item giving notice that the board will consider adopting a resolution a its Aug. 3 meeting which would put the proposal to the voters again in November.

Voters in CSD 3 said no by an overwhelming 64-36 margin on June 27 to the proposition that would have rededicated funds from an existing 25-plus mill property tax. Purpose of rededicating the funds had been explained only as “to provide additional support to schools in the district.”

CSD 3 schools include Lakeside Jr/Sr High School and Central Elementary. 

“We want to bring back the proposal that was defeated in June, but this time we think we need to be more specific about the intent,” Rowland said. “If we are more specific about where the money goes, I believe the results will be much different.”

Rowland said the proposal did not seek to increase the existing millage rate, but would only redirect funds to include items such as pay for school resource officers. 

“I think once the people know exactly where the money will be going, like for school resource officer pay, I think they will be supportive,” he said.

In addition to the CSD 3 proposal, voters in June soundly defeated another put forward by the school board. A proposed one percent sales tax for the Webster Parish School Board Educational Facilities Improvement District failed, with 70 percent of the voters saying no. The 20-year tax would have provided additional funding for the public school system.

During Tuesday’s meeting, the board also:

• Adopted millage rates for 2026.
• Approved resolution for canvassing returns and declaring results of special election held in Consolidated School District 3 on June 27.
• Approved revisions of Special Education several job descriptions to ensure alignment with current professional terminology, qualifications and discipline-specific standards. 
• Entered executive session to discuss lawsuit. 

Board members approved, in globo, payments of invoices totaling $816,520.54 covering maintenance and repairs in the various districts. Those include:

• Consolidated Dist. 3 Maintenance Fund: $221,525.44. Total includes $90,835.52 for four SMART Interactive Panel, three Asus laptops and 150 Chromebooks for Lakeside Jr/Sr High; $42,639.90 to purchase 18 new cameras and equipment for sports facilities at Lakeside Jr/Sr High; $15,680 to purchase 230 student subscriptions at Lakeside Jr/Sr High for ELA interventions; $15,214.57 to install/upgrade eight cameras at Central Elementary; $12,600 to install new air conditioning unit in baseball/softball locker room at Lakeside Jr/Sr High; $8,850 to spray foam insulation in livestock barn at Lakeside Jr/Sr High.

• District 6 One-half Cent Sales Tax Fund: $423,057.32. Major payments were $119,580 to prime and paint interior walls and resurface floors at J.L. Jones Elementary; $75,739.60 to remove existing ramps and awnings, pour new concrete to set new ramps and awnings to four T-buildings at Richardson Elementary; $40,803.80 to install security cameras at Minden High football stadium; $37,828 to purchase seven Promethean AcivPanels for Richardson Elementary; $23,500 to add additional parking spaces with bumpers at Richardson Elementary; $20,250 to add additional parking spaces with bumpers at Phillips Elementary; $19,950 for site adaptation for modular classroom buildings at J.A. Phillips Elementary.

• Cotton Valley Maintenance Fund: $27,207.80 includes $26,017.80 to purchase 60 Chromebook’s for North Webster Upper Elementary, and $1,190 for parts for HVAC system at North Webster Upper Elementary.

• Doyline Maintenance Fund: $21,834.70. Top payment is $15,030.70 for technology items including Smart panel, charging stations and laptops plus extended warranty for Doyline High.

• Sarepta Maintenance Fund: $72,868.93. Payments include $29,134.20 to purchase 60 Chromebooks for North Webster High; $15,181.92 to replace damaged fire system at North Webster Jr. High; $11,439.56 to purchase helmets and shoulder pads for North Webster Jr. High; $8,400 for various parts for HVAC system at North Webster Jr. High.

• Springhill Maintenance Fund: $50,026.35. Major payments include $22,420 to add parking area at North Webster High for buses and additional parking; $9,965.24 to install video intercom system and door keypad reader at Brown Upper Elementary; $8,870.61 to update existing and install additional cameras inside and outside school at Browning Elementary. 

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By Marilyn Miller & Savannah Jones

After nearly a decade at the helm of the Webster Parish Library in Minden, Savannah Jones will step down to join her family-owned business at the end of July.

“Since 2019, Webster Parish Libraries has accomplished many new projects and have introduced new services and improvements that have strengthened the library system,” Savannah said. “We have expanded what we are able to offer our communities.”

In addition to the new Doyline branch build-out, the library system has completed various roof replacements and other facility improvements “to help protect and maintain our buildings for long-term public use.”

According to Savannah, the Minden branch has seen several major updates. “These include painting the interior of the building, introducing debit and credit card machines for patron convenience, adding vending machines and creating The Quad, a business meeting space within the branch.”

“We also revamped the children’s area with murals and a giant playhouse, creating a more engaging and imaginative space for families and young patrons. We have also focused on improving patron comfort and access at other branches, including the addition of outdoor seating at the Cotton Valley Branch, and the inclusion of the Little Free Library in Springhill.”

Webster Parish Libraries has also made major progress in technology and digital access since 2019.

“We created and launched our current website, released a library app, upgraded our catalog to Discover, and added Beanstack, a reading track app,” Savannah said. “We also placed WI-FI hotspots into circulation, introduced ROKU/hotspot bundles for checkout, and launched Sora, a children’s reading app powered through the library for Webster Parish schools.”

Another important project has been the creation of the Yearbook Archive, which helps preserve local history and gives the community access to valuable historical records. Webster Parish Libraries also became an affiliate library for FamilySearch, expanding access to genealogy and family history resources.

According to Savannah, “Marketing and community engagement have also grown significantly. Since 2019, we have rebranded the library system with a new logo and signature colors of green and blue. We combined our social media outlets into one main page to create a stronger and more consistent public presence. We also introduced marketing and community engagement as a more intentional part of the library system.”

Programming has also continued to grow.

“Discovery Camp, formerly known as the Summer Reading Program, has developed into a major summer experience for children, combining reading, learning, STEM, creativity, and fun,” Savannah said. (Libraries are increasingly offering a variety of STEM programs that engage patrons of all ages in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics activities. Some have added the Arts as part of STEM, and call it STEAM.)

“Trunk or Treat” has fast become a community and family favorite for the Fall season, with hundreds participating in the outdoor Halloween-type event.

The Webster Parish Libraries has been recognized for their work. The Minden Branch was named Community Partner of the Year in 2021 by the Greater Minden Chamber, and the Springhill Branch earned the Ambassador of the Year Award for 2024 from the Springhill Chamber. “These recognitions reflect the libraries’ commitments to serving as an active and valuable part of the Webster Parish community,” Savannah noted.

“Overall, since 2019, Webster Parish Libraries has grown through new facilities, updated technology, expanded digital services, improved children’s spaces, stronger community engagement, new branding, preservation projects, and enhanced programming. These accomplishments show our continued commitment to keeping the library relevant, welcoming and responsive to the needs of Webster Parish,” Savannah said, noting that the Webster Parish Library has served the people of the parish since 1929.

“The library was created with the support of local community members, and assistance from the Rosenwald Foundation, with the goal of becoming a model parish library for the State of Louisiana.”

What began as a forward-thinking effort to expand access to books, education, and learning has grown into a parishwide library system dedicated to literacy, technology, local history, lifelong learning, and community connection.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

A West Monroe-based company was chosen from nine bidders to Build a perimeter fence (Phase I) at the Minden Airport.

After review of bids by KSA Engineering, Delta Specialty Contractors LLC was the lowest responsive bidder meeting all requirements and specifications in the amount of $230,625 and was unanimously approved Wednesday during a meeting of the Minden City Council.

A grant application will be prepared to submit to the Federal Aviation Administration and the state Department of Transportation and Development.

“People don’t realize how valuable a fence is until you want to land a plane and there’s an animal on the runway,” Mayor Nick Cox said.

In addition, the airport is updating and establishing hangar fees with the council’s approval. (See below)

With the idea of a new water well for the city Cox was designated and authorized to execute and submit any and all documents pertaining to the DRA fiscal year 2026 grant and guarantee that the City of Minden provides matching funds.

“It’s a wise investment and (Public Works Director) Tyler (Wallace) has found an opportunity to get half a million toward a $1.5 million project, but he needs our authority to pursue that,” Cox said. He went on to say he feels the city can get matching funds from the state.

City of Minden property was designated as surplus and the terms of sale fixed (2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT and 2008 F-150 XL).

The council also voted to reappoint Morris Busby and appoint Juan Rangel to Minden Planning Commission.

Promotions:

Minden Police Department Promotion – Benjamin Sparks has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant;;

Minden Police Department Promotion – Matthew Hicks, Jr. is now a sergeant;

Minden Police Department Promotion – Johnna Traylor and Cody James have been promoted to Officers First Class;

Minden Fire Department Promotion – Wesley Mandino to Battalion Chief

Minden Fire Department Promotion – Henry Ashley to Fire Captain.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Friday, July 10:

ANDREWS, FRANCISCOS ROSHUN
100443-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100443-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

ANSLEY, JANIE
INCOMING Disturbing The Peace

BROWN, JUDITH TAYLOR
99660 Simple Burglary
Restitution owed to the victim is $1600 + $240 fee = $1840 Balance as of 6/30/26 is $1400

COILE, HARLEY RAY
INCOMING Resisting An Officer

DAVIS, LAKISHA
100142 Theft Under $1,000
Restitution owed- $100, plus $15 fee = $115 total

DICKEY, DARREUS DOMINIQUE
99899 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

DILLON, KIMBERLY
99963 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

DUCK, JEFFERY EARL
100441 Theft Under $1,000

DUPREE, KAMERON KEESHAWAN
100462 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100462 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage

ELKINS, JR., LAMARIO JERMAINE
99644 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

GAMBLE, BROCK ARON
100387 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – Second Offense
100387 CT. 2 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
100387 CT. 3 Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

GERMANY, KYDRICK OSHAE
100038 Theft Under $1,000

GOLDSTON II, MATTHEW RASHAD
100304-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100304-CT.2 Illegal Use, Consumption, Possession, Or Distribution Of CDS In Presence Of Persons Under 17
100304-CT.3 Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection
100304-CT.4 Improper Child Restraint

GRAHAM, ERIN LYNEE
98897 Forgery
Restitution owed to the victim- $5,545, plus $831.75 fee = $6,376.75 total Balance as of 06/30/26 is $1,926.75

GREENARD, TEVIN JMAR
100419 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100419 CT. 2 Failure to Stop and/or Yield

HARRIS, VONTAVIOUS DEWAYNE
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
INCOMING Failure to Yield Right of Way

HOLLEY, JEFFERY BOYD
100324 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100324 CT. 2 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
100324 CT. 3 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
100324 CT. 4 Operating a Vehicle with an Unlit License Plate

KIMBLE, KEDONTE
99637 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000
Restitution owed to the victim- $1,990.40 + $298.56 fee = $2,288.96 Balance as of 5/7/26 – $1,948.96

KING, MATTHEW KEITH
100420 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100420 CT. 2 Failure to Use Safety Belt
100420 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

LIVINGSTON, ANGELA
100440 Resisting An Officer

MARINARO, RICHARD THOMAS
100341-CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Under Suspension For Certain Prior
100341-CT.2 Improper Lane Usage
100341-CT.3 Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign

MASON, BRYANNA CHEYENNE
100451 CT.1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
100451 CT. 2 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License
100451 CT. 3 Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate
100451 CT. 4 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

MCDAY, SR, JOSEPH NATHANIEL
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
INCOMING Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
INCOMING Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

MILES, SHUNTA
100439 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

RICHARDSON, DAKOTA
99830 Aggravated Criminal Damage To Property

RICHMOND, AMARI JAHNA
100442 Switched License Plates

ROWE, ABBIGAIL ROSE
100436 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
100436A Possession of any Tobacco Product under 21

SAWYER, SHAD RANDALL
INCOMING Violation Of Protective Order

SHEPPARD, TREYVION AHMAUD
100463-CT.1 False Communication with 911
100463-CT.2 False Communication with 911

SMITH, DANIEL
99900A Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SPECKS, QUINTON
100273 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

SUMNER, JUSTIN SHAWN
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
INCOMING Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

TURNER, KIMBERLY A.
100284 Violation Of Leash Law

UPTON, MICHAEL
100417 Violation Of Protective Order

WATERS, KAGE ROBERT
100338 Unlawful use of a social networking website

WORTHAM, CHARLES DUANE
100448 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

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