By Pat Culverhouse

A Minden man is currently in custody after he allegedly attacked two employees of a Shreveport Rd. business when one of the men refused to give him money.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said 44-year-old Jerome Rodricker Mitchell, a resident of the 1200 block of Shreveport Rd., is facing two charges of simple battery after the Wednesday incident.

Mitchell allegedly stopped by the business in the 1000 block of Shreveport Rd. asking for money. When one shop employee refused, Mitchell reportedly shoved the man then swung with a closed fist.

After being confronted by a second employee, Mitchell allegedly threatened the two men and a third employee who had witnessed the incident. Mitchell allegedly walked into the parking lot, turned and punched one of the employees who had followed him.

According to investigating officers, the employee suffered a small laceration, bleeding and swelling from the blow to his eye. Mitchell reportedly was arrested at his Shreveport Rd. address.

He is currently being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center under $1,000 bond.

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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Rotoya Edwards is wanted on a charge of felony theft for allegedly stealing money from her employer.

The store manager was performing an inventory of a Minden convenience store after she received an email from corporate loss prevention in reference to suspicious activity by an employee.

After reviewing the email and camera footage, she observed multiple occasions where Rotoya Edwards allegedly scanned items, voided the transaction, and then opened the register on a “no sale transaction.” The manager stated she allegedly saw Rotoya Edwards pocket several transactions.

Edwards is suspected of stealing approximately $2,085.70. She is facing a $15,000 bond.

Anyone with information on Rotoya Edwards is encouraged to contact MPD Detective Lt. Jason Smith at 318-371-4226 (office), 318-268-1441 (cell) or email at  jksmith@mindenusa.com.

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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Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, (May 26, 2025) is a solemn national holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by these individuals and to show gratitude for their service. 

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day began as a way to decorate the graves of Civil War soldiers with flowers. Over time, it evolved to honor all those who have died in service to the country, both in peacetime and during wartime. 

Key aspects of Memorial Day

Honoring the Fallen:
Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. 

Reflection and Gratitude:
It’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by military personnel and to appreciate the freedoms they helped protect. 

National Holiday:
Memorial Day is a federal holiday, meaning it’s observed nationwide. 

Not a “Happy” Day:
While it’s a time for remembrance and celebration of life, it’s important to note that Memorial Day is not a “happy” holiday. The proper way to mark the occasion is to show respect and gratitude for those who have served. 

Different from Veterans Day:
Memorial Day honors those who have died in service, while Veterans Day honors all living and deceased veterans who have served in the military.

(Information: Google)

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

City of Minden’s new airport hangar project has received a $585,000 boost by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This grant will provide federal funding to construct a 3,600 sq. ft. sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage to help the airport be self-sustaining by generating revenue.

In February, the Minden City Council awarded a bid to build one 60X60-foot hangar and one 80X60-foot hangar to Southern Craftsman Construction LLC of Alexandria in the amount of $1,164,000.

Mayor Nick Cox said the City of Minden originally allocated $600,000 from American Rescue Plan (ARPA) to cover the other half of the project.

“The deadline to spend it was December 31, 2024, so it will still come from ARPA, indirectly, but through our budget,” Cox said.

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced last week FAA) is granting Louisiana a total of $1,627,346.00 in funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to improve airport infrastructure in Minden, Shreveport, Monroe, Vivian, Mansfield, Eunice, and Reserve.

“Communities always want their airports to leave a good first impression,” Cassidy said. “These investments will help them do so. They’ll boost safety, support local economies, and help smaller airports better serve their communities.”

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Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. East wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Sunday

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.

Sunday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.

Memorial Day

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a high near 82. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

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The Case Manager plays a crucial role in patient care coordination, serving as a liaison between patients, families, and physicians to ensure effective communication and seamless transitions across the continuum of care, including post-acute services. The team diligently maintains medical records, facilitates timely documentation, and supports discharge planning while making appropriate referrals to community resources. Upholding strict confidentiality standards, they collaborate with healthcare professionals and social agencies to address patient needs comprehensively. Additionally, they participate in performance improvement initiatives, adhere to regulatory policies, and engage in continuing education to enhance service quality. Their dedication to critical thinking, peer review, and professional integrity strengthens both internal operations and customer relationships, ultimately fostering a supportive healthcare environment for the Springhill community.

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As Memorial Day approaches, we reflect on the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our country. This year, we invite you to explore and honor their stories using Fold3, a fantastic resource available through your Webster Parish Libraries .

What is Fold3?

Fold3 is a premier collection of U.S. military records, including the stories, photos, and personal documents of the men and women who served. It’s a treasure trove of information that brings history to life and allows us to pay tribute to our heroes.

How Can You Use Fold3?

Discover Ancestral Heroes: Search for military records of your ancestors and learn about their service.

Create a Memorial: Compile documents, photos, and stories to create a personalized memorial for a loved one or an admired historical figure.

Educational Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the experiences and sacrifices of soldiers throughout history.

Share Stories: Post findings and stories on social media to spread awareness and honor the memories of those who served.

Getting Started:

Access Fold3 through your Webster Parish Libraries website.

https://tinyurl.com/wplfold3

Search by Name: Enter names, military units, or specific conflicts to find relevant records.

Explore Collections: Dive into various collections like Draft Records, Service Records, and Photos.

This Memorial Day, take a moment to use Fold3 and connect with the past. Let’s honor our heroes together.

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As the school year 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 23 through June 26

9 a.m. until noon, Breaker Rock Beach Vacation Bible School at Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Preschool through fifth grade. Register online at www.lakeviewminden.com or print and email the completed form to lakeviewunite365@bellsouth.net .

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WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Governor Jeff Landry joined Deputy Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Madison Sheahan, ICE Principal Legal Advisor Charlie Wall, and a team of other patriots to announce a HUGE, historic partnership with the federal government to crack down on criminal illegal aliens in the great State of Louisiana. This game changer is called Operation GEAUX.

Under this powerful new initiative, Louisiana law enforcement agencies will be empowered to enforce federal immigration laws, giving them the tools necessary to take dangerous, illegal criminals off our street. Operation GEAUX includes enhanced screening, aggressive identification, and a massive public awareness campaign that is going to wake people up. This isn’t just talk—it’s action. And it’s happening now. Executive Order attached.

“If you’re here illegally and you engage in criminal activity, you are going to be deported or sent to jail,” said Governor Landry. “Operation GEAUX is the kind of historic, one-of-a-kind partnership that the Trump Administration is looking for to fulfill the President’s promises of restoring law and order! Making America Safe Again.”

Background:

Over the past four years, immigration enforcement mechanisms established by Congress and prior administrations were systematically dismantled under the Biden Administration, resulting in the largest wave of illegal immigration in the Nation’s history. The estimated population of illegal aliens in Louisiana was approximately 97,000 as of 2021, with current figures likely significantly higher.

Since President Trump took office in January, border crossings have plunged to the lowest in decades. It is because of the Trump Administration’s strict immigration enforcement and tough on crime approach, that streets across the Nation are safer.

President Trump has made it clear that illegal immigration has no place in America, and we want to ensure this is a reality in Louisiana. For too long, those on the left and in the media have coddled those who break our laws and given them a platform. We are ushering in a new age in America and Louisiana. One where law and order is the expectation, not the exception. Where our communities and families are protected, and criminals are rejected. The actions taken today are a sign to the world that the days of status quo, lackadaisical immigration enforcement are over.

Continue your article here…

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

May 22-23

9 until 11 a.m., Calvary Baptist Church Basketball Camp, 1400 Homer Road, Minden (Across from Walmart) $25. T-Shirt included if registration and payment are received by noon May 8 Register now: calvaryminden.com/basketballcamp

11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Special Needs Basketball Camp.

Same information as above. Register now: calvaryminden.com/basketballcamp.

May 24

9 a.m. VFW Post 2885 will be holding a “Day of Service” at The Minden Cemetery in the Old Section.  Bring flags, gloves, rakes.

10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Fan Drive – donations or drop off at 212 W. Roosevelt St., Minden. Cash App is accepted. Call 318-210-1799 or 318-707-3532.

May 28

10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Minden Senior Health & Fitness at Minden Rec Center.  Free for seniors 50 and older.  Numerous vendors, health tips, BINGO, and door prizes.  Sponsored by Minden Medical Center.

May 28 through June 28

Discovery Camp, Webster Parish Libraries. Visit https://www.websterpl.org/about-4-1 for more information and registration.

May 30

6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.) Seeds Women’s Center “Totally 80s Bingo.” Minden Civic Center, 520 Broadway, Minden. Sponsorships needed. Call Amber Bradford at 318-639-0907 for more information.

June 13 and 14

Grilling on Main BBQ Competition, downtown Minden.Two-day non-sanctioned BBQ competition.

June 23 through June 26

9 a.m. until noon, Breaker Rock Beach Vacation Bible School at Lakeview Methodist Church, 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. Preschool through fifth grade. Register online at www.lakeviewminden.com or print and email the completed form to lakeviewunite365@bellsouth.net .

August 7-10

Wheaton Family Reunion for Webster and Claiborne parishes. Call If you are a Wheaton descendent and have not been contacted, please reach out to Brian Mosby at 214-794-3986.

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BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana has become the first state to utilize a new voter list maintenance database from the federal Department of Government Efficiency. This database combines information on individuals’ immigration status and death records.

“Since taking office, I have repeatedly requested this critical data from the federal government to check Louisiana’s voter registration list,” Secretary of State Nancy Landry said. “After being stymied by the previous administration, I am thankful to President Trump for his quick work in crafting a cost-free, user-friendly database with valuable information that will help keep Louisiana’s voter rolls accurate. Clean voter rolls are critical to the integrity of our elections.”

Secretary Landry discussed and offered feedback on this new database with White House staff, the Department of Government Efficiency, U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services, and the Social Security Administration at recent meetings in Washington, D.C. Additionally, after being vetoed three times by Governor John Bel Edwards, Act 2 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session took effect this year and will allow for expanded voter list maintenance through mailed confirmation cards to individuals who have not voted or had contact with election offices in ten or more years.

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of May 16 through May 22. Civil suits are public record.

May 16

Blue Tide Exteriors vs. Derrick Vice, monies due.

Capital One vs. Judy L. Cork, suit on note.

Capital One vs. Haley Looper, suit on note.

Capital One vs. Micaela Brunson, suit on note.

Capital One vs. Carol A. Henderson, suit on note.

Capital One vs. Carol A. Henderson, suit on note.

Nicholls State University vs. Tadreya R. Grant, monies due.

Tina Crow individual and on behalf of her husband Isaac Crow, Jr., vs. Bioscript Pharmacy LLC, damages.

May 19

Herman Glen Killen, succession over $125K.

Red River Employees Federal Credit Union vs. Joseph James Jr., executor process.

Harper Burner Jean miles vs. District Attorney, name change.

Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC vs. April Cook, contract.

Synchrony Bank vs. Mary Calloway, contract.

Crown Asset Management LLC assignee of Webbing (Prosper Funding LLC) vs. Dixie Garrett, contract.

May 20

Troy Glen Livingston vs. Mary Darlene Livingston, divorce.

Lillie Banks vs. Walmart Inc., damages.

May 21

Michael Bayne Smith, succession.

Lauren Thomas vs. Matthew Allen Thomas, divorce w/children.

May 22

Marne Vess vs. Four Mile Trucking LLC, Bobby Joe McCrary, Sentry Select Insurance Co., damages.

Martha Dianne Montgomery individually and on behalf of Gary Montgomery, Bretta Montgomery individually and on behalf of Gary Montgomery, Matthew Montgomery individually and on behalf of Gary Montgomery, vs. Luisangel Verenzuela and Rondon Alberto, damages.

Waste Management of Arkansas Inc. vs. CW&W Contractors Inc., monies due.

Caitlyn Williams vs. Edward Williams, divorce.

Corey Hudson vs. Kiara Hudson, divorce.

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Huey Jean Slack Smith

December 13, 1933  –  May 21, 2025

Springhill, La.

Visitation: 1 until 3 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Funeral service: 3 p.m. Saturday, immediately following visitation.

Burial: Slack Memorial Cemetery, Springhill, under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home.

Karla Michelle Thomas

September 4, 1973 — May 22, 2025

Visitation: 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, La.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.

Burial: 1 p.m. Bethel Cemetery.

Robert J. (Bobby) Smith

November 7, 1953 — May 18, 2025

Minden, La.

Graveside service: 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31, 2025, Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Jonathon E. Brooks

June 6, 1980 — May 21, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, City On A Hill Pentecostal Church, Minden.

Funeral service: 1 p.m. immediately following visitation.

Burial: Gardens of Memory Cemetery under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Dorothy S. Butcher

April 20, 1932 — May 19, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, Rose-Neath Funeral Home Chapel, Minden.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation.

Burial: Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Minden.

Grady Richard Dubois

November 27, 1954  –  May 19, 2025

Springhill, La.

Visitation: 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Funeral service: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, Bailey Funeral Home Chapel, Springhill.

Burial: Springhill Cemetery.

Jarvis Landon Jennings

July 5, 1936  –  April 21, 2025

Graveside service: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 24, 2025, Welcome Cemetery, Taylor, Ark., under the direction of Bailey Funeral Home, Springhill.

Lane Knotts

February 19, 1929 – May 18, 2025

Elm Grove, La.

Graveside service: 2 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, Ebenezer Cemetery, Castor, La., under the direction of Rockett Funeral Home, Ringgold.

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 Bonnie Culverhouse

Minden Charity Classic is almost ready to tee off for its annual fundraiser with a full field of golfers.

The Classic is an annual event presented by the Minden Foundation and Executive Director Bailee Hurley said there are 60 teams, “which will be 120 golfers hitting the green May 31 and June 1.”

Each team is considered a sponsor of the event as well as other businesses or individuals who wish to support efforts to raise money for those with sudden and catastrophic needs in the community.

“With a total of 70 sponsors for the Minden Charity Classic, including our title sponsor b1 Bank, and the generosity of those attending our dinner and auction on Friday, May 30, we are confident this year will be a success,” Hurley added.

Not a golfer? It’s OK, she said. There will still be ways to participate that weekend.

“On Thursday, May 29 we are hosting a Bourbon Tasting at the Fuller White House to showcase the single barrel bourbon that was hand selected by the Minden Foundation,” Hurley said. “This bourbon was aged and finished in a honey cask by Southern Collective and will be available for purchase throughout the event weekend.”

Something for the ladies?

“For the ladies, we are hosting Birdies, Bubbles, & Bingo on Saturday, May 31 at Pine Hills Country Club,” she said. “Those who register by Friday, May 23 will receive a hand painted champagne flute from Kimberly Mandino at Birdy Lu Designs. More information about this event can be found on our facebook page.”

Each year, the Minden Foundation has a big raffle item for which anyone may purchase tickets.

“This year we are raffling a Predator Electric Off-Road Hunting Bike.” Hurley said. “Use it for hunting, commuting to work, or taking a leisurely tour of the Friendliest City in the South! Tickets are $20 each and available to purchase through our website, www.mindenfoundation.org.”

There is only one type of sponsorship available for this event.

The sponsorship is $1,100 and includes 4 tickets to the Dinner & Auction on Friday Night (May 30) at Pine Hills Country Club.

To be a sponsor, visit their website and fill out the form.

They also accept checks and cash, which can be dropped off to Andy Pendergrass at 1000 Broadway, or mailed to P.O. Box 1083, Minden, LA 71055.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Officers from separate law enforcement agencies made drug arrests Tuesday involving a Webster Parish man and a Bossier Parish woman using different modes of transportation.

Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) agents Sgt. Justin Greer and Austin Ashley observed a Doyline man in a water vessel near Green Park and stopped to investigate.

While questioning 40-year-old Green Park resident John Outlaw, the agents noticed a container in his pocket. In response to questions, Outlaw told agents the container contained insulin, however a search revealed a substance believed to be methamphetamines.

Agents also reportedly found a syringe, a marijuana pipe and marijuana on the suspect during a further search. After he was read his rights, Outlaw reportedly admitted the substance in the container was methamphetamines.

Outlaw is currently being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center charged with possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana), possession of CDS Sch II (methamphetamines) possession of drug paraphernalia.  His bond has been set at $3,500.

Vicky Lynn Kelly

Back on land, Doyline police officer Shawn Woody stopped 54-year-old Vicky Lynn Kelly of Haughton Tuesday for a traffic violation on Pilgrim Rest Rd.  just before 8:30 p.m.

After receiving permission to search the vehicle, the officer reportedly found a purse in the vehicle’s side pocket containing a baggie of suspected methamphetamines. Officer Woody also found a .38 caliber handgun in the center console.

Kelly is being held in the parish jail where she faces charges of possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) and possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance. No bond has been set.

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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Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph after midnight.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 86. East wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.

* Info provided by National Weather Service.

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Robert J. (Bobby) Smith, aka “Saint” by his trucking company, sadly passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the age of 71 with his sister, Sandra and nieces Robin and Lisa by his side. He was born in New Orleans LA on November 7, 1953, to Verna Wale and Orville (Nick) Smith.

Bobby was a lifetime cross country truck driver most of his life. His happiest years were the last 9 spent driving for PMI, owned by his friend, Kerry Bryce. He was awarded with special gifts and awards while with Werner Trucking Co., including his “Million Miles Accident Free” award.

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Joe Ann Neilson and brother-in-law Raymond J. Rush, Sr.

He is survived by 3 children, Tessa Smith Chabarria, GA, Janelle Smith Warren (Charles), South Carolina and Brett J. Smith, Minden, LA.

Also survived by 3 grandchildren, Savannah and Ava Warren, South Carolina and Zoe Smith, Minden, LA. Sisters, Sandra Rush, Minden, LA and Pamela Badeaux (Ronald), Mobile, AL. Several nieces, nephews and friends.

Like his first wife said, “He was always true to himself, the real thing, take it or leave it. A good guy.”

Special thanks to ALL the ladies of Passages Hospice. They would come in and explain to him what he needed to do and he’d respond with what HE was going to do. So we really thank them for loving him and taking care of him anyways, like we did.

Bobby is loved and will be missed!

There will be a graveside only service on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Minden, LA.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or organization of donor’s choice.

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Baton Rouge, LA- The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is pleased to announce an update regarding the allocation of $67.5 million in supplemental funding aimed at enhancing the preservation and maintenance of roads, highways and infrastructure across the state.

This additional funding was approved by state legislators during the 2024 Regular Legislative Session, with each of DOTD’s nine districts receiving $7.5 million designated for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The districts have successfully completed numerous projects, with more in progress, thanks to this additional funding. DOTD is implementing these initiatives through a combination of in-house maintenance teams and contracted services.

“This additional funding has been profoundly beneficial to the citizens and travelers of our state,” DOTD Sec. Joe Donahue said. “This is a shining example of the progress and achievements that happen when the legislature, the public, and this department work as one to improve infrastructure throughout Louisiana. We look forward to adding and delivering more projects to our to-do list.”

Here is an updated summary of how some of the funding has been applied in each district thus far, noting that additional projects are in development. To see a list of projects by district, visit this link:

Shreveport Region:

(Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Claiborne, DeSoto, Red River, Webster)

· LA 1 (Youree Dr.) overlay between Stoner Ave. and Southfield Rd.

· District-wide maintenance supplies and various asphalt repairs

· Pavement surface improvement on I-220 at I-49

DOTD remains dedicated to keeping the public informed about the progress of these projects, ensuring effective use of the $67.5 million in supplemental funding for the enhancement of our infrastructure. Updates will be provided periodically as projects reach completion.

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By Jessica Gorman 

A couple weeks ago, we took a look at a lake that was almost built just north of Highway 79 along Cooley Creek before the plan changed and that lake was moved north of Minden on Caney Creek. 

In January 1936, the opening of the Land Utilization Department offices in Minden renewed hope that the lake would be built. Over 100 men were employed to clear the site for the new lake, but the project was not without its obstacles. Farmers living in the area had applied for assistance from the Resettlement Administration. The objective of resettlement was to provide struggling farmers with the opportunity to move to more productive land. This land had to first be obtained by the government, but those purchases had become more difficult than anticipated due to the oil and gas activity in the area. Landowners were, of course, wary of selling land that may prove to be valuable in the way of minerals. 

Mr. Fritz Spencer expressed his concerns to the Minden Lions Club. 

“The land situation has changed in the past year,” stated Mr. Spencer in his talk. “A few years ago, Webster Parish land could be bought for a song. Now the land is either leased for minerals, or not suitable for resettlement.”  

Mr. Spencer stressed the importance of providing farmers with property that would give them the best advantages for farming. 

“I don’t want to just ‘move’ a family,” said Mr. Spencer. “What I want to do is find land that these persons may be able to make a living on.” 

To encourage landowners to offer their land to the program, changes were implemented making land with mineral deeds eligible.  

Work continued on the lake project. Over 300 workers had been employed to convert more than 500 acres of land that had suffered the effects of erosion into a lake whose primary purpose was the conservation of water. A sawmill had been constructed and timber from the site was milled for use in constructing a recreation hall and cabins. Sand for the beach was taken from an onsite gravel pit. New roads were constructed along the north and west sides of the site. Work was expected to be complete by the following June. 

By January 1937, the upper dam had been completed and the spillway only lacked concrete. Heavy rain filled the lake to a depth of 11 feet in some places. In March, C.C. Barnard, an engineer on the project, put the first sailboat in Webster Parish into use on the lake. Work on the lower dam began the following month and by July, the lower spillway was ready for concrete. It was expected that the coming autumn rains would help to fill the lakes. The upper lake was soon stocked with bass and trout from the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries at Natchitoches.  

In the beginning, the lake was referred to by names such as the Resettlement Lake or the Government Lake. In May 1938, the public was invited to submit their suggestions for a permanent name. I have yet to find any follow-up information concerning submissions, but as we know, the lake was ultimately named for Caney Creek. 

On Labor Day 1939, Caney Lake officially opened to the public. Over 3000 visitors were reported during the first few days. The site offered four different cabin types, a recreation hall, swimming, fishing, boat rental, bath house, concessions, and the sale of fuel and bait. The lake quickly became a popular destination for company parties, church outings, picnics, campouts, family reunions, and more.  

(Jessica Gorman is Executive Director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Webster Parish Historian, and an avid genealogist.) 

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The Case Manager plays a crucial role in patient care coordination, serving as a liaison between patients, families, and physicians to ensure effective communication and seamless transitions across the continuum of care, including post-acute services. The team diligently maintains medical records, facilitates timely documentation, and supports discharge planning while making appropriate referrals to community resources. Upholding strict confidentiality standards, they collaborate with healthcare professionals and social agencies to address patient needs comprehensively. Additionally, they participate in performance improvement initiatives, adhere to regulatory policies, and engage in continuing education to enhance service quality. Their dedication to critical thinking, peer review, and professional integrity strengthens both internal operations and customer relationships, ultimately fostering a supportive healthcare environment for the Springhill community.

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Louisiana Department of Education has launched the official Teacher Leader Summit 2025 app. This year’s theme, A New Story for Louisiana Education, comes to life with tools that make it easier than ever to stay informed, connected, and organized throughout the event.

Whether you’re attending sessions, connecting with fellow educators, or exploring the exhibit hall, the app puts everything you need in the palm of your hand.

How to Access the App

Step 1: Click the login button.

Step 2: Enter the Event ID: ECvFbTLS2025 then download the event app.

Step 3: Log in using your first name, last name, and email ID. A 6-digit code will be sent to your email. Enter the code to access the app.

Once you’re in, your personalized event experience begins!

What You Can Do in the App

Build Your Personalized Schedule

Browse all sessions

Tap the “+” icon to add sessions to your agenda

Access your personal schedule at any time

Connect with Attendees

Explore the attendee list

Network and make connections

View Exhibitors & Partners

Learn about Summit sponsors and education partners

Filter Sessions

Search by topic, audience, or interest area

For questions about the app, email ldoeevents@la.gov.

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WHAT IS HERBES DE PROVENCE?

Herbes de Provence is a mixture of dried herbs that originated in southern France. This herb blend specifically features herbs that are naturally grown in its area of origin. The basic recipe for Herbes de Provence includes fennel, marjoram, tarragon, thyme, and rosemary. Some other recipes may include oregano, sage, parsley, basil, savory, bay leaves, chervil, mint, or even lavender. This herb blend was originally used for French cooking, but has since expanded to many different culinary genres and uses.

HOW CAN YOU USE HERBES DE PROVENCE?

Herbes de Provence can help elevate the flavor of your meals at home while reducing the use of salt. Use this herb blend to season meat, fish, vegetables, soups, sauces, stews, and salad dressings. It can also enhance the flavor of a marinade or homemade bread. Add Herbes de Provence towards the beginning of the cooking process to draw out and fuse the herbal aromas into the dish.

HOW TO GROW HERBES DE PROVENCE?

Herbes de Provence is an herb blend comprised of several different herbs, and there are numerous variations of this popular blend. Louisiana’s diverse climate makes it accommodating for growing a variety of herbs. Most herbs thrive in good drainage and 4-6 hours of direct sunlight. It’s advised to plant herbs in containers with welldrained potting soil or in raised beds, given our high rainfall.

RECIPE

Herbes de Provence Vinaigrette

Makes 2 servings

Serving size: 2 Tbsp

123 Calories per serving

120 mg of Sodium per serving

Recipe adapted from: Spruce Eats

INGREDIENTS

• ½ tsp dried Herbes de Provence
• 2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ garlic clove, crushed and finely chopped
• Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Place all ingredients in a jar and shake until ingredients are blended well

OR Whisk ingredients in a small bowl until completely blended.

1. Pour dressing over fresh leafy greens and enjoy! **Plan to use the vinaigrette shortly after making it. It is best when freshly made.

Program adapted by: Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH, Assistant Nutrition Agent, LSU AgCenter Northwest Region Document created by: Abigail McAlister, MS, RD, LDN, Associate Extension Agent and Nutrition and Community Health Regional Coordinator, Northwest Region

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), along with ten other alligator range states, has launched the GatorWise website.  The site is a collaborative effort from all Southeastern states with alligator populations to educate the general public on the basics of coexisting safely with alligators. 

A few tips from the site include:

• Assume alligators are present when near a water body.

• Never feed alligators.

• Don’t dispose of fish or food scraps in water.

• Never harass, capture, or handle an alligator.

• Be responsible for people and pets in your care.

• Maintain awareness anytime you are in or near water.

The site can be reached at http://www.Gatorwise.org. The goal of this site is to promote realistic public perceptions about alligators and assist the public in taking appropriate action to minimize conflict.

If you have questions, please contact Alligator Program Manager Jeb Linscombe at jlinscombe@wlf.la.gov  

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