Monday, May 18, Webster Parish Journal will celebrate five years of publication – yay, us!! – a milestone.

During the past five years, we have grown as a publication in viewership and staff.

In 2025, we boasted more than 3 million views, and we are on track to meet and possibly exceed that number for 2026.

We want to thank our many advertisers, for without them, we could not publish, nor could we pay our fine staff to bring a variety of news and advertising to our readers.

Our advertising staff consists of Advertising Director Cynthia Sandidge and her crew Kelly Yates, Randy Ward and Zoë Pickett. Randy and Zoë call on businesses in the northern part of Webster Parish, while Cynthia and Kelly cover everything else.

Our writers are Marilyn Miller, Tiffany Flournoy, Paige Gurgainers, Zoë Pickett, Shannon Wright, Pat and Bonnie Culverhouse. Jerry Strahan is our videographer/photographer and weather expert.

Regular columnists include LaTina DeLoach, Paige Gurgainers, Shakera Williams, Tracy Campbell, Jessica Gorman, Taryn Ogletree, Mitzi Thomas, Teddy Allen, Robert St. John, Brad Dison and Royal Alexander.

We send a big “Thank you” to all of these people, but most especially to our readers. We welcome your input and ideas. You can email us at wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

Please remember: Webster Parish Journal is and always will be Simple and Free.

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By Tiffany Flournoy

CULLEN, La. — The Town of Cullen’s police cruisers have remained largely grounded for about a week due to a lack of fuel, part of a broader pattern of administrative and financial breakdowns affecting municipal operations and public safety services.

Police Chief Fannie Rankin said Mayor Terry Hoof and the town clerk were notified about the urgent need for fuel for the town’s two police units. Rankin said alderwomen later contacted the town clerk regarding the issue, but no resolution followed.

Attempts to reach Hoof on Thursday included a call to his cellphone at 10:43 a.m. regarding the ongoing fuel issues affecting police vehicles. During the call, Hoof initially responded, “I’m not interested in it, Ms. Tiffany. I’m working right now.” While the call remained open, he could be heard briefly speaking to someone in the background. This reporter then asked whether he was working at town hall at the time. The call ended abruptly.

At 10:47 a.m., Hoof sent a text message reading “nocommentever.”

Additional calls to town hall between 11 a.m. and 11:05 a.m. rang multiple times and were answered without audible response before disconnecting after the greeting.

The fuel shortage has significantly limited patrol operations and response capability. Rankin said she has notified the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office as a safety precaution.

Rankin said the department has not had access to a fuel card for approximately one year due to nonpayment to the card provider, Smith’s South Central.

Fuel-related disruptions have occurred before, including in February when a police cruiser had to be towed after running out of fuel.

The ongoing issue of how fuel is funded and administered has again surfaced as the department continues operating without a fuel card system.

Rankin said she was notified Thursday, May 14, that the Mayor advised she should meet him and Town Clerk UnTracy Brittentine at Bonvenu Bank in Springhill the same day to obtain a card for the police fuel account.

A letter dated May 14, 2026, from Bonvenu Bank, RE: Town of Cullen debit cards, outlines responsibility tied to any debit cards issued on town accounts. The letter states that organizations issuing debit cards assume full responsibility for all transactions and must ensure cards are used strictly for legitimate business purposes. It further states that authorized signers are responsible for all transactions made using those cards.

Rankin has expressed concerns in prior council meetings about her personal information being tied to municipal financial accounts, including insurance and fuel arrangements, and potential personal liability in the event of default or unpaid obligations.

Earlier this month, police vehicles were also temporarily grounded following a lapse in insurance coverage due to nonpayment. Rankin said the coverage was later restored, though fuel access issues remain unresolved as of Thursday, May 14.

Records provided by Rankin following conversations with Progressive indicate the town’s vehicle insurance lapsed for six days before being reinstated May 8. The policy was scheduled to run from Nov. 2, 2025, through May 2, 2026.

It is not the first documented instance of insurance disruption. Some months ago, a town vehicle was reportedly towed from neighboring Springhill after being found without active coverage.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Tribute was paid Thursday to more than 50 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies across northwest Louisiana who gave their lives in the line of duty.

“These are the people who run to the fear, not away from it,” said Shreveport Chief of Police Wayne Smith during remarks to a large gathering of officers, family and friends.

“They are the ones who stand between danger and the community. They paid the price. Their tour of duty may be over, but they will never be forgotten.”

Included among those honored were Webster Parish deputies William “Billy” Collins, Jr. and Trey Copeland. Both men died in the line of duty in 2021.

Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker made a special presentation of a single red rose to family members of Collins, who attended the Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony.

Collins was shot and killed in the line of duty on July 9, 2021, while responding to a domestic disturbance call on Greentree St. in Doyline.

Copeland suffered a fatal medical event following a high-speed vehicle pursuit along U.S. 371 in Webster Parish in August, 2021.

Thursday’s event honoring the 52 fallen officers was held at the Law Enforcement/Firefighters Memorial on the Shreveport riverfront off Clyde Fant Parkway.

Agencies honoring fallen officers during the ceremony included Bossier City PD, Bossier Parish SO, Caddo Parish SO, DeSoto Parish SO, Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries, Louisiana State Police—Troop G, Natchitoches Parish SO, Vivian PD, Webster Parish SO and Shreveport PD.

(Below: Sheriff Jason Parker (left), Chief Deputy Hank Haynes (right) and members of the Billy Collins family.)

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Morgan Loftin is wanted for theft that occurred on April 16. Detectives were assigned the case and began gathering information from the initial report.

Detectives secured camera footage associated with the incident and identified Morgan Loftin as one of the suspects involved. The following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Morgan Loftin:

One count theft with a bond amount of $500 surety.

Clydell Patterson is also wanted for theft that occurred on April 16.

Clydell Patterson and Morgan Loftin entered Walmart together on April 16. They selected several items in the electronics department and left Walmart failing to render payments for the selected items.

Following is the charge(s) and bond amount(s) associated with Clydell Patterson:
 
One count theft with a bond amount of $500 surety.

Please get in touch with Detective Matthew Hicks (318-639-7776) of the Minden Police Department if you have information on the whereabouts of Morgan Loftin and Cordell Patterson.

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 Zoë Pickett

The Springhill Council gathered to discuss ongoing projects, upcoming community events and future investments aimed at strengthening the city and supporting residents.

One of the evening’s major focuses was the continued momentum in Springhill’s Main Street District. City leaders highlighted the success of the recent Keep Louisiana Beautiful cleanup effort, which brought together volunteers, local businesses, and city crews to help beautify the community.

The May Farmer’s Market also drew strong community support, featuring vendors, a quilting show, and family-friendly activities. Officials announced that the June 6 Farmer’s Market will feature a “Taste of Market” event with food and entertainment for families.

In addition, a new Matching Grant Program is set to launch in June to assist Main Street businesses with growth and improvement projects.

Downtown improvements are also on the horizon thanks to a $255,225 Louisiana Department of Transportation TAP Grant. The funding will be used to improve walkability and parking in the Main Street area, with construction expected to begin this summer.

Council members also celebrated the opening of Debo’s Corner, which has already become a popular gathering place within the community.

The council introduced the proposed Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Operating Budget. Budget workshops will be scheduled in the coming weeks as city leaders continue planning for the upcoming fiscal year.

Several community announcements were shared during the meeting, including updates on local recreation and infrastructure projects. The city’s Splash Pad is now operational, with sod installation planned soon to improve safety and cleanliness around the area. The official opening is scheduled for June 6, 2026.

Repairs on June Anthony Drive are also progressing and the roadway is expected to reopen soon.

Council members encouraged families to participate in the upcoming Champions of Character youth event hosted by former NFL player Charcandrick West on May 28 at the CAC. The free event is open to middle and high school students from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will focus on integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. Lunch will be provided.

The council also announced that Rob Pelzer will officially begin serving as the new hospital CEO on May 18, marking an important step forward for healthcare leadership in the community.

The meeting concluded with council members emphasizing their continued commitment to moving Springhill forward through responsible planning, community partnerships, and investment in local growth.

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There are days motherhood feels more like survival than sanctification.

The toys scattered across the living room floor become obstacles I find myself tiptoeing over. The overflowing laundry hamper feels endless. There’s water splattered all over the bathroom floor (again), someone yelling “Momma!” from another room and somehow the same five songs have played on repeat in the car for the hundredth time this week.

There are tears over math homework at the dining room table. Not just theirs… sometimes mine too!!

There are late nights listening to worries about friendships, heartbreaks and the hard realities of junior high. There are moments when I become the listening ear, the shoulder to cry on, the comfort after a hard day. 

And without fail there’s the nightly request for “one more glass of water” right after everyone is tucked in bed, and the tiny footsteps that still somehow find their way down the hallway after lights out.

And honestly? My house is almost never quiet, but somewhere in the middle of the chaos, God keeps reminding me: motherhood is a ministry.

Not because it’s glamorous. Not because it’s easy. Not because I always do it perfectly. But because ministry is simply serving others with love, sacrifice, patience, grace and consistency… even when nobody applauds it.

Motherhood is ministry in its purest form.

It’s showing up every single day when you’re tired. It’s answering questions, wiping tears, praying over children who don’t even realize how much covering they need yet. It’s dancing in the kitchen while dinner cooks because you know these moments are fleeting. It’s choosing gentleness when you’re overwhelmed. It’s making home feel safe in a world that often doesn’t.

Sometimes we think ministry only happens behind pulpits, on mission trips, or in big public moments.

But ministry also happens in carpool lines, bedtime, at the kitchen sink, at ballgames. In whispered prayers over sleeping babies. In conversations during difficult teenage years and in every “I love you” shouted from the backseat.

The truth is, one of the greatest callings God can give a woman is the opportunity to raise hearts, shape character and create a home filled with love.

And one day, the toys will be picked up for the last time, the laundry piles will disappear, the bathroom floors will stay dry and the house will finally become quiet. And while part of me may long for rest in the hard moments, I know without question that I will miss the noise someday.

Because these ordinary, exhausting, beautiful moments are the very things I once prayed for… I am living in my answered prayers!!!

Every messy room. Every chaotic morning. Every kitchen dance party. Every late-night conversation.

It is holy work.

Motherhood isn’t just raising children. It’s nurturing souls. It’s building a legacy. It’s loving like Jesus in the smallest, most unseen moments.

And that kind of ministry matters more than any other work I will ever do in my lifetime. 

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By Paige Gurgainers

The Greater Minden Chamber hosted the 2026 National Civics Bee’s Regional Competition in Minden in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, bringing together local students to showcase their civic knowledge, leadership skills and ideas for improving their communities.

Students competed in a live civics competition where finalists answered questions and presented thoughtful solutions aimed at making a positive impact in their communities. Organizers praised the students for their confidence, preparation and leadership throughout the event.

Taking first place was Carter Shirley of Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School. Second place was awarded to Christian Lemoine of Glenbrook School, while third place went to Josiah Stewart of Lakeside Jr./Sr. High School.

Additional finalists recognized during the event included Thomas Chibnick and Brooklyn Sunderland.

The top three winners will now advance to the Louisiana State Competition scheduled for June 27 at LSU Shreveport, where they will compete against students from across the state.

Judges for the regional competition included Jeff Rhodes of The Rhoman Group, Kelsey Meshell of Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College and Patony Morrow of PTM Financial Resources.

Organizers also thanked corporate partners Optimum, LearningRx and the City of Minden for supporting the event, along with Shug’s for providing refreshments to attendees.

Chamber officials said the event highlighted the importance of encouraging civic engagement, leadership and community involvement among young people while showcasing the bright future ahead for local students.

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A – Courtroom A at Webster Parish Courthouse

The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court Monday, May 18:

BAILEY, CECILEY KELLY
100340 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
A Arraignment

BEENE, GERALD
100327 Simple Burglary
A Arraignment

BLACKMON, JUWAN M.
99144 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)
A Status Hearing

BRATTON, PAUL EDWARD
89591 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
A Probation Violation Hearing

BROOKS, SAYVON
INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance

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

BROWN, HOLLY KATHRYN
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Theft Under $1,000
A Bond Return
BROWN, STEVEN PHILLIP
99918 Simple Burglary
A Status Hearing

BROWN, TWANTELL EDWARD
100020 Second Degree Battery
A Status Hearing

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
100243 Cruelty To The Infirmed
A Status Hearing

CALHOUN, DAWN SHERMAN
100071 Violation Of Protective Order
A For Further Disposition

CALHOUN, DEVANTE DEMOND
100239 Possession of Schedule II CDS
A Status Hearing

CARTER, ALLEN JOSEPH
100326 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000
A Arraignment

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

COLLINS, WILLIAM DWAINE
100342 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle
A Arraignment

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE
98526 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
A Status Hearing

DOSTER, ZACKARY LOGAN KADE
98327 CT 1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98327 CT 2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Status Hearing

FLOURNOY, JR, DAVID
99614 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms
A Bond Return

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

GRAHAM, ANDRE DEVAL
99218 Ct. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99218 CT. 2 Improper Lane Usage
99218 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles
A Probation Review

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
A Status Hearing

HARRIS, JAMIE G
99820 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99820 CT. 2 Failure To Dim Lights – Oncoming
A For Further Dispositio

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

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

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

JOHNSON, WESLEY JERMAINE
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Obstructing Public Passages
INCOMING Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids
INCOMING Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
A Bond Return

JOHNSON-MOSLEY, JESSICA L.
INCOMING Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Bond Return

JONES, GEORGE EDWARD
100356 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Arraignment Bond Return Date

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

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)
A Arraignment

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

MANSELL, JR., WILLIAM
INCOMING Cruelty To The Infirmed
A Bond Return

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
A Arraignment Bond Return Date

MAXEY, JR., DAVID LYNN
100335 Stalking
A Arraignment Bond Return Date

MERCER, TODD HUTCH
100359 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
A Arraignment

MITCHELL, JEFFREY JEROME
100229 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana
A Arraignment

MOYA, SAMUEL PAUL
100342 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle
A Arraignment

PATTERSON, LASONDRA TRINETTE
99915 Simple Burglary
A Status Hearing

PATTERSON, LASONDRA TRINETTE
98640 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Probation Violation Hearing

PORTER, JOSHUA ADAM
100251 Cruelty To Juveniles
A Status Hearing

PORTER, JOSHUA ADAM
INCOMING Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
INCOMING Aggravated Obstruction Of A Highway Of Commerce
INCOMING Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle
INCOMING Failure To Obey Traffic-Control Signal
INCOMING Failure To Obey Traffic-Control Signal
INCOMING Failure To Obey Traffic-Control Signal
A Arraignment

ROBINSON, JR., EDDIE D
99838 Home Invasion
A Status Hearing

SANDERS, MARLON DAMON
100170 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling
A Status Hearing

SMITH, JEREMIAH JARHA
INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance
A Bond Return

SNEED, CHARLES CONWAY
100019 Simple Burglary
A Status Hearing

TAYLOR, TONY RAY
100343 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS
A Arraignment

THOMPSON, SHANNON
100236 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Status Hearing

VESSELS, TRENT DUANE
100212 Second Degree Battery
Restitution owed- $5,685.34, + $852.80 fee = $6,538.14 total
A Status Hearing

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100053 Theft Under $1,000
A For Further Disposition

WASHINGTON, DOMINIC
100247 Obscenity
A Status Hearing

WATERS, KAGE ROBERT
100338 Possession of Pornography Involving Juveniles
A Arraignment

WEIDNER, BRADLEY JOEL
99143 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
A Probation Violation Hearing MPD

WHITE, ANDREW JAMES
99689 Obstruction Of Justice
A Status Hearing

WILLIAMS, JEFFERY
INCOMING Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense
A Bond Return

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If you didn’t vote early or by absentee ballot, you can still make your wishes known Saturday in the May 16 closed party primary election.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. All races on the ballot, except U.S. House of Representatives, are proceeding as scheduled.

**The following offices are party primary offices: U.S. Senate, U.S. Representative, La. Supreme Court Justice, Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Member, Public Service Commission Member.

Some parishes will have municipal primary elections and/or local propositions.

All parishes have Constitutional Amendments (see below).

In order to see exactly what will be on your ballot, you can utilize digital resources. Polling locations, sample ballots, and much more are available through GeauxVote App, Voter Portal, and http://www.GeauxVote.com, call (800) 883-2805 to speak to an elections specialist or call Webster Parish Clerk of Court at 318-371-0366.

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The 8th Annual Minden Duck Derby Extravaganza presented by The Mosaic Company is back — and this year, it’s part of the huge America 250 / Minden 190 Celebration weekend in Downtown Minden!

Join hosts Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 13, during Grilling on Main for an evening packed with live music, great food, family fun, patriotic celebration, fireworks, and one of the most anticipated moments of the weekend — the Duck Derby race!

Get your ducks in a row:

1 Racing Duck – $5
Quack Pack (5) – $20
Quacker’s Dozen (12) – $50
Flock of Ducks (25) – $100

CASH PRIZES:
$1,000
$500
$250
Tickets: https://greatermindenchamber.com/…/community-program…/

“You do not have to be present to win… but trust us, you’ll want to be there,” said Chamber Executive Director Stephanie Barnette.

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Dear Fellow Citizens, 

I’m John Fleming, your State Treasurer and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

This Saturday’s election is extremely important. DC lobbyists and Baton Rouge elites have poured millions into supporting their preferred candidate — NOT ME. 

At stake is the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) industry’s push to use YOUR tax dollars to seize YOUR private land through eminent domain.  Estimates suggest that up to 75% of the nation’s CO2 emissions could be pumped beneath our lands, lakes, and rivers – ‘captured’ for eternity. The whole thing is a “Green New Deal” scam, which will make the elites wealthier at the expense of the rest of us.  I am the only candidate who is 100% opposed to this fraud and abuse.  

Don’t be fooled! The establishment and powers that be are trying to buy our Louisiana Senate seat. I can’t be bought, bribed, or bullied! 

Our future, and the future of our children and grandchildren, hangs in the balance. Please don’t sit this one out — vote this Saturday, May 16th.   Polls open at 7:00 a.m. 

Thank you,

John Fleming
Louisiana State Treasurer
Republican Candidate for the US Senate 

Paid Content

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 It’s the time of the year that we all have our gardens growing, getting close to producing.  I hear all of the time that when you are just before harvesting, some kind of wild creature comes in the garden and mows it down.  That okra was going to be great, but it’s all of a sudden gone.

Sometimes an electric fence is the answer.  I have had folks tell me that they put the  electric fence up, fold some aluminum foil coated in peanut butter to attract the deer, which in turn will pop him and make him leave you alone.

Putting up an electric fence is expensive, and also troublesome to put up, I know that I don’t have time for or the energy to do it.  So here is a few more suggestions to think about.  Liquid fence is a deer and rabbit repellent that comes ready to use or in a concentrate.  You use 13 oz per galloon of water.  Just spray it around the garden.  Spray around once a month.  

Another brand of repellent is called Deer Scram.  Apply Deer Scram as a protective perimeter band at least 18″ away  from bed or overhanging vegetation.  Sprinkle liberally, visibly covering the ground in a 16″ wide band around the entire group of the plants to be protected. After heavy rainfall you will need to reapply.  

Even your flowers have critters that get eat up by varmits.  Fertilome, my favorite brand, makes a product called Critter GO.  It is a liquid concentrate that fights rabbits, deer, squirrels, and others.  Mix 14oz product with 1 gallon of water and spray directly on the plants.  

We also have Armadillo Scram.  A 6-lb bag covers 3600 square feet.  It is an all natural granular repellant.  Just sprinkle and step back.  

As always, read the label.

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

Continue your article here…

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NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University awarded 890 degrees to 860 graduates during Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies May 13-14.  Webster Parish spring graduates listed by hometown are as follows. 

Doyline – Amaris Buitrago, Bachelor of Science

Dubberly – Jayde Burks, Bachelor of Arts

Minden — Makenlee McCall, Associate of Science in Nursing; Lacoya Hawkins, Bachelor of Science; Jenna Nelson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Adrianna Maddox, Bachelor of Social Work; Mary Simms, Doctor of Education; Michel’le Coleman, Sharde Evans, Lawanda Jefferson, Master of Science in Nursing

Sarepta – Katie Ingle, Master of Science in Nursing

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Intake # 26077 at Minden Animal Control: ”Olivia” approximately 11 week old tabby female. Olivia has been started on kitten vaccines and deworming. She is litter box trained and has the loudest purr box.

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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As school ends, Vacation Bible Schools all over the parish begin. If your church is hosting one of these events this summer, please email your information to wpjnewsla@gmail.com and we will publish it in a special calendar. Thank you!

June 8 – 13

6 until 8:45 p.m., Calvary Baptist Church, 1919 S. Main Springhill, Kindergarten through 5th grade. For more information, call 870-949-3680.

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The 2026 Louisiana turkey hunting season was a record-setting event as, for the first time since 2009 when harvest data was mandated, more than 4,000 birds were harvested, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. The season ran from April 3-May 3 and produced 4,024 harvested birds.

The past five seasons have produced the best harvests since mandatory reporting began in 2009 and coincides with pushing the start of the season back in 2018. Based upon LDWF staff recommendations, the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission pushed back the start of the season in 2018 to aid in reproduction and help increase and sustain turkey populations across the state.

The 2026 harvest is 12.5% higher than the 2025 season, in which 3,576 birds were taken. The 2024 season had 3,695 birds harvested. The 2025 season was the first in which the harvest of juvenile males, or jakes, was restricted to a bag limit of one for youth hunters only. Prior to that change 434 jakes were reported in 2024 compared to 111 in 2025 and 81 jakes reported in 2026.

“We’re pleased to see another good year of harvest and our turkey populations continue to grow,’’ LDWF Small Game/Turkey Program Manager Cody Cedotal said. “Since 2018, reported turkey harvest maintained somewhat constant until 2022 when a significant increase occurred (2,846 birds harvested). This suggests turkey populations are doing well in many areas of the state and provides additional evidence that the season change is working.’’

Much like 2024 and ‘25, the season started with above average reported harvest during youth weekend and the first two weeks of the season despite less than optimal weather. Reported turkey harvest for the last two weeks of the season also increased slightly from the previous year’s report.

“Many hunters again reported increased encounters with jakes, which is an indicator of good reproduction in some areas,’’ Cedotal said. “Similar reports were noted over the last five years.’’

Forthcoming results from the 2025/2026 Louisiana Big and Small Game Harvest Survey will allow for a comparison of estimated harvest generated from that survey and an assessment of hunter-effort for the 2026 season.

Private landowners can get assistance in upgrading turkey habitat by contacting LDWF Private Land Biologists. For more information, visit the Louisiana Private Land Management Assistance Page.

For more information on Louisiana turkey populations and hunting, go to the LDWF Turkey webpage or contact Cody Cedotal at ccedotal@wlf.la.gov.

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week ending May 14. Civil suits are public record.

May 10
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC vs. Latacha Fuentes, monies due.

May 11
Credit Acceptance Corporation vs. DeeDee Carpenter, monies due.
Lonnie Dale Matthews, succession over $125K w/petition to probate.

May 12
Bobbie Jean Herford, succession under $125K.
Charles F. Farrell Jr., succession under $125K.
Letina Louise Joiner vs. David Deon Walker, divorce.
Lesley Taylor Burrow vs. Paul Richard Taylor, Rhonda McRae Taylor, Sharon Champagne Barlett, petition.

May 13
Synchrony Bank vs. Kerri Davis, monies due.
TD Bank USA vs. Daniel L. Hall, monies due.
Crown Asset Management LLC vs. Meredith Cox, monies due.

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 90. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Friday Night

Increasing clouds, with a low around 70. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 69.

Sunday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 88.

Sunday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73.

Monday

A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 88.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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Word of the day: Rectify

Phonetic: /REK-tuh-fye/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
Rectify is a formal word meaning “to correct (something that is wrong).”

We were given the wrong room key, but the hotel management quickly rectified the situation.

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

May 17

2 until 4 p.m. End of School Bash, Victory Park, Minden activites, games, music and family fun for children of all ages. Free and open to the public. Sponsored by Young Women’s Service Club and Miss Minden Organization.

May 27 through June 27

Roar & Explore: Discovery Camp 2026, Webster Parish Libraries Discovery Camp 2026.  STEM-themed weeks that explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through fun, educational, and engaging activities with a lineup of special performers who combine entertainment and education in the most fun ways.

May 27

11 a.m. Jacqueline Park, downtown Minden. Time capsule burial ceremony as part of the City of Minden’s 190th anniversary celebration.

May 28

9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Champions of Character, Student Event, CAC Building, Springhill. Sponsors, City of Springhill, Springhill Medical Center, North Webster Athletic Dept. Lunch will be provided.

May 30

Deadline to sponsor events at Celebrate America 250 & Minden 190. Click here: https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2484/campaign/8625 .

 

3:30 p.m. doors open; 4:30 p.m. games start, LaMa Animal Rescue Game Night, Springhill Civic Center, $20 for games, BINGO, purse raffle, dessert auction, concessions Split the Pot and door prizes.

June 4

10 a.m., Turners Pond, the second and final GOF catfish stocking of the spring by Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

June 11-13

Celebrate America 250 & Minden 190

Bites & Beats kicks off weekend celebration.

Kids Patriotic Parade

5K Run on Main

Cornhole Tournament

Grilling on Main

Little Grillers

Kids Play area

Duck Derby

Fireworks Finale

June 20

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

June 21

8 a.m. until a p.m., service at 10:45 a.m., Men’s Wellness Fair weekend continues, New Light Baptist Church, Minden.

June 22 – 26

9 a.m. until noon, Earth Camp 2026 at The Farm of Cultural Crossroads, Minden, ages 6 through 9.

1 p.m. until 3 p.m., ages 10 through 16.

June 27

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

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Rebecca W. Foster, 47, 4400 block La. 157, Elm Grove: arrested May 12 by WPSO for possession of CDS Sch.II (methamphetamines). No bond set.

Leronski J. Miller, 23, 2500 block Oak Tree, Haughton: arrested May 12 by WPSO on warrant. No bond set.

Julie C. Thomas, 37, 400 block Center Park, Springhill: arrested May 13 by WPSO on multiple warrants for failure to appear. Bond set $2,500.

Terry Dewayne Burt, 42, 1900 block Hwy. 792, Heflin: arrested May 13 by bond agents on warrant for failure to appear. Bond set $10,000.

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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David Allen Lee
November 8, 1943 — May 11, 2026
Minden, La.
Visitation: noon Friday, May 22, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden.
Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Minden.

Kyler Preston Choat
November 10, 1997 — May 11, 2026
Minden, La.
Memorial service: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Stacey Rodriguez
April 13, 1973 – April 28, 2026
Minden, La.
Celebration of Life: 2 p.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026, Living Word, Minden.

Elmer Fayette Tompkins
July 14, 1937 — May 6, 2026
Baton Rouge/Homer, La.
Graveside service: 11 a.m. until noon, Saturday, May 30, 2026, Arlington Cemetery, Homer.

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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