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

ADAMS, CHRIS WAYNE
100086-CT.1 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000
100086-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

BECK, JR, CHARLES THOMAS
99373 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense
99373 CT. 2 Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids

BECK, JR, CHARLES THOMAS
99043 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

BROWN, JR., JOHN ELTON
99994-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
99994-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule IV CDS

BROWN, KATHLEEN NICOLE
99599 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

BROWN, ROBERT TYRONE
99907 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

BUSH, JUAN JAMES
100077 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

CATO, RUSSELL LEE
100198 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

DAVIS, JR., LARANCE EDWARD
100026 Indecent Behavior With A Juvenile

DOUGLAS, DEXRECH FAFON
100177 CT 1 Simple Burglary
100177 CT 2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

ELLISOR, LEAH M
INCOMING Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
INCOMING Possession of Schedule II CDS
INCOMING Introducing Contraband Into Or Upon The Grounds Of Any State Correctional Institution
INCOMING Sale/Distribution/Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription
INCOMING Operating A Vehicle With An Expired Driver’s License

FERRELL, JR., TERRY LEE
100190 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

FIELDING, BRIAN EVERETT
98394-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS
98394-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
98394 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

FLOURNOY, DAMETRICK
99478-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99478-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99478-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

FLOURNOY, DAMETRICK
99478-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99478-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
99478-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

FLOURNOY, DAMETRICK
100199-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)
100199-CT.2 Operating a Vehicle Without a Driver’s License

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

GUY, WILLIAM
INCOMING Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

HARRELL, MARIQUIS M.
95188 Possession with intent to distribute Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (twenty eight grams or more)

HARRIS, KENDRICK R.
100009-CT.1 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
100009-CT.2 Obstruction Of Justice

HARRISON, JARED MALCOLM
99398 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

HARVEY, ANDREW JAMES
100085 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

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

HILMAN, ROBERT JAYDEN
INCOMING Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS
INCOMING Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense
INCOMING Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
INCOMING Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

HOOD, GRACE LOUISE
98843 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

HOOD, GRACE LOUISE
99835 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

INGRAM, ALLYSSA FAITH
100201-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered
100201-CT.2 Aggravated Obstruction Of A Highway Of Commerce

JACKSON, ARDARYOUS T
100202 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or
Controlled Dangerous Substance

JENKINS, JASON DARRYL LAMONT
100058 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

JOHNSON, JEREMIAH JMONTEZ
99926 Attempted Second Degree Murder

JOHNSON, PERCY HOLLADAY
100162 Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

JONES, CHAMETERIA
100187 Aggravated Battery

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

MASON, KEYSHAWN
100203-CT.1 Manufacture/Transfer/Possess Machine Guns
100203-CT.2 Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault

MAXWELL, JOSHUA DONALD
100076 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

MCKINLEY, KYLE MICHAEL
INCOMING Second Degree Battery

MOORE, KALION
99803 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
99803A Battery Of A Correctional Facility Employee

MOORE, KENYASKEY WILLIAMS
98871-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
98871-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS
98871-CT.3 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence
98871-CT.4 40:967.C.(1) – Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)
98871-CT.5 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

NOLAN, TOMMY RAY
100074 Second Degree Battery

PARKER, JASON DONALD
99630 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

POWELL, JERMAIN RASHUN
100034 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

RANKIN, JACOBE
100205 Manufacture/Transfer/Possess Machine Guns

ROBERTS, CALEB MATTHEW
99817 Aggravated Criminal Damage To Property

ROWE, CHRISTOPHER L.
100179 Aggravated Second Degree Battery

RUSHING, ZACHAREY TODD
99643A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

SMITH, DEMICHAEL DAMONTREAL
INCOMING Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon
INCOMING Window Tint

SNEED, III, ROBERT LEE
99734 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SNEED, III, ROBERT LEE
99444 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

STROTHER, KIMBERLY FONTENOT
100050 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

TAYLOR, JASON ARTHUR
99560 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying

TAYLOR, JASON ARTHUR
T161416 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled
T161316 Operating a Vehicle with an Unlit License Plate

UMPHRIES, JOSEPH WENDELL
100195 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

VANCE, MICHAEL WAYNE
INCOMING Illegal Use Of Weapons Or Dangerous Instrumentalities

WOODWARD, KALLIE R
100204 Unauthorized Use Of A Motor Vehicle

WOOLDRIDGE, TONY
100144 Third Degree Rape

Friday

A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. South wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night

A slight chance of showers before midnight, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between midnight and 3am, then showers and thunderstorms likely after 3am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 66. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Saturday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 77. South wind around 5 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent.

Saturday Night

Showers and thunderstorms likely before 9 p.m., then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 9 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 59. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Sunday

Showers likely, mainly before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 71. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Sunday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.

Monday

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79.

Monday Night

A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

March 9

6 .m. Night at the Museum, 116 Pearl St., Minden. Brian Davis, Executive Director of the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation will be guest speaker. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; seating is limited.

March 10

Deadline to sponsor 2026 Springhill, North Webster Chamber of Commerce Banquet. Email chamber@springhillla.com . Tickets go on sale April 1.

March 12

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music, food trucks, family friendly fun.

March 13

10:45 a.m. until noon, Veteran’s Meet and Greet with meal at Webster Parish Council on Aging, 1482 Sheppard St., Minden.

March 14

7 p.m., Piney Woods Jamboree, CAC building, Springhill. Special guests will be Rhonda and Byron Delaware.

March 20

7 p.m., Malpass Brothers Show, CAC building, Springhill. Tickets are $ 25.00 for general admission and $ 30.00 for reserved seats. You can purchase tickets at Express Tax Title & License at 101 N Main Street or call (318) 539-2750.

March 24

7 p.m. 84th Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala. Minden Civic Center, Minden, La. Tickets: greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala.

April 1-April 9

2026 Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Springhill, North Webster. Tickets: chamber@springhillla.com .

April 9

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music with Cynthia Sandidge, food trucks, family friendly fun.

6 p.m. Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, Springhill Civic Center.

April 18

9 a.m. until noon, Arms Around Autism, Autism Acceptance Walk, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. Vendors, bounce house, resources, sensory-friendly kid zone.

The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of February 26 through March 5. Civil suits are public record.

February 27
Stevie Smith vs. Creseida Law, divorce.
James D. Meshell vs. Tony Ray Taylor, protective order.
Dustin Starr Smith vs. Jennifer Sanders Smith, divorce w/children.
Planet Home Lending LLC vs. DeKeilla Jenkins, executory process.
First Tower Loan LLC vs. Nakesha M. Taylor, petition.
Carter Federal Credit Union vs. Ronald Layne Schildroth, monies due.
BOM Bank vs. Justin L. Howard administrator of succession of Jeffrey E. Wren and Margaret A. Wren, executory process.

March 2
Charlie Monroe Jr., Bettie Hanson Hunter, succession over $125K.
Eldon Roy Thurman aka Eldon Ray Thurman, succession under $125K.
Autumn LaCasse, Mariah Sopscak vs. Alton Wayne Miller Jr., Nichole Michelle Miller, voluntary transfer of custody.

March 3
Tiffany M. Parish vs. Michael G. Upton, protective order.

March 4
Dianne Jordan, succession under $125K.
Bailey Nicole Goad vs. LaDarren DeJuan Frazier, custody.
Erica Tucker vs. William Hunter Jr., protective order.
Bobby McKan Jr., vs. Kristi McKan, divorce/no children.
James Donald Mouser, succession over $125K.
Capital One vs. Stephanie M. Hudec, petition.
CitiBank vs. Gregory A Case, monies due.

Word of the Day: Janiform

Phonetic: /jani· form/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
a figure, object, or head with two faces looking in opposite directions
having a face on each of two sides
a coin bearing a janiform head

Kareem Weathers, 32, 1300 block Hall St., Ringgold: arrested March 3 by WPSO for speeding, on warrant. No bond set.

Jatravion L. Rogers, 19, 500 block Joel St., Minden: arrested March 2 by Minden PD on warrant for aggravated battery with a dangerous weapon. Bond set $40,000.

Amanda Sue Baxter, 45, 200 block Baxter Rd., Springhill: arrested Feb. 26 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, hit and run, possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), possession of Legend drugs, reckless operation, possession of drug paraphernalia, on fugitive warrant. No bond set.

Tanya McLain Weems, 55, 900 block Bracken St., Minden: arrested March 3 on warrants for DWI, speeding. Bond set $2,001.

Lorenzo Cornelius, 58, 700 block Central School Rd., Dubberly: arrested March 3 by Minden PD for possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines), resisting an officer, on warrants for criminal trespass and two counts theft of a motor vehicle. Bond set $36,500.

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

Tina Heard Jones
September 14, 1962 — February 15, 2026
Shreveport
Visitation: 1 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Airline Dr., Bossier City.
Memorial service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.

Valinda Jean Wolfe
February 26, 1955 — March 4, 2026
Bossier City
Visitation (only): 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Bossier.

Dorothy Faye Hartman
June 23, 1944 — March 2, 2026
Bossier City
Visitation (only): 5 until 7 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Airline Dr., Bossier City.

Betsy Calhoun
April 28, 1941 — March 3, 2026
Arcadia
Visitation: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Arcadia.
Funeral service: 2 p.m. immediately following visitation.
Burial: Bear Creek Cemetery.

Julie Anne Akes Hamblin
July 4, 1964 — February 21, 2026
Mooringsport, La.
Memorial service: 2 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2026, Tower Baptist Church, Mooringsport.

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.)

By Pat Culverhouse

Webster Parish deputies have arrested a Shongaloo woman for six counts of cruelty to juveniles after responding to her residence for a welfare check and finding young children suffering from numerous injuries.

Sheriff Jason Parker said 43-year-old Julie Michelle Taylor is currently being held in the parish prison under a $160,000 bond. She reportedly is also charged with obstruction.

Parker said deputies were interviewing 26-year-old Sabra Samantha Neal of Springhill who reportedly acknowledged receiving a text message from Taylor asking if she had Mojo.  Mojo is a slang term primarily used for a group of synthetic cannabinoid products, often referred to as synthetic marijuana.

During the interview, deputies learned Taylor was caring for Neal’s three children. Neal reportedly said she had planned to leave the children in Taylor’s care, then pick them up the following morning.

Deputies Cody Clifford and Bryan Miller were dispatched to Taylor’s Fire Tower Rd. residence where, upon arrival, they reportedly found an approximately one-year old female strapped in a car seat upside down, with her face lying on concrete. The child reportedly was “crying and screaming.”

Deputies also found two other male juveniles inside the residence. During their investigation, the deputies observed injuries to all three juveniles and called EMS to the scene for evaluations.

According to deputies, the female juvenile had facial bruises while the oldest male juvenile had several bruises and scratch marks throughout his body and on his face, and whelps on his back and right buttocks. The youngest male juvenile reportedly had several bruises and scratch marks throughout his body and whelp marks on his arms and shoulders.

While photographing the residence, deputies reportedly observed a bag containing several clear plastic bags with a green leafy substance in plain view on a couch. Inside the bags were approximately 3.89 grams of synthetic marijuana and rolling papers.

During interviews at the Sheriff’s Office, Taylor reportedly admitted she was “overwhelmed” and placed her hands on the juveniles, and that she “did take it way too far.”

Taylor reportedly admitted she wrapped the seatbelt of her vehicle around the wrists of one of the juveniles. She said she “laid her hands on” the juveniles several times throughout the day, including punching one juvenile while she was driving.

An unidentified witness reportedly told investigators Taylor was hitting the juveniles with her closed fist “as if they were fighting like a grown person would.” The witness reportedly also told deputies Taylor asked them text Neal and another individual about buying Mojo.

As a result of the investigation, Neal was charged with three counts of improper supervision of a minor and obstruction of justice. She reportedly is being held in the parish jail under a bond of $1,003.

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

By Pat Culverhouse

It’s 1936 and Americans are struggling. This thing called the Great Depression has many wondering what the next day will bring.

In Waco, Texas, Mrs. A.J. Price saw an ad in a Houston newspaper. Business opportunity, it said. She showed it to her husband and the pair trekked from their home to Minden to investigate. That trip marked the beginning of a new day, and legacy, for Price.

“It was the teeth of the Depression and he had a good job in Waco,” said John Price Collins, grandson of A.J. Price, and the third generation owner of what has become a Minden business stalwart for four score and 10.

“He came to Minden, went to church and met H.O. West who encouraged him to do it,” Collins said. “Some people thought he had lost his mind to leave a good job during this Depression and go into business, but he liked Minden immediately, met some really good people and thought ‘I can do this.’ He did, and here we are.”

On the window of the Main St. storefront the sign reads “A.J. Price Tire.” Just above the awning, with neon lights still operating, it says Western Auto. That’s the legacy of A.J. Price.

Friday marks the 90th anniversary of A.J. Price’s dream and a celebration is planned that will extend into the early evening hours, a celebration that will include food, drinks and music provided by long-time friend (and surrogate son) Mitch Fussell. Part of the celebration includes shutting down Broadway in order to make room for an expected large crowd.

Starting time for the major celebration is 5 p.m. with activities scheduled to continue until 8. Everyone is invited.

Minden’s Western Auto was the first dealer store in the state of Louisiana. A.J. Price ran the business until he retired for health reasons in the early 1960s. He turned the reins over to his daughter, Evelyn Price Collins, who had worked for her dad since 1954. She was 86 years old when she turned over the operation to John.

John Collins came into the business after he graduated from Louisiana Tech with a business degree in 1970. After 56 years in the family business, he can’t see himself anywhere else.

“I had a couple of pretty good job offers after I graduated, but I looked at what our store was doing and decided this is where I wanted to be,” he said. “I’ve never regretted it. I might retire, but not until I’m at least 90…unless I decide not to.”

Western Auto officially ceased operations around 2000 to 2001. That left the Minden store, one of the oldest dealers in the nation, looking for a new name.

“My grandfather said once that he had raised three daughters, had a good wife and that God would take care of him. And, He had. That’s why I kept the store name A.J. Price,” Collins said.

Joining the celebration, and most likely doing the lion’s share of planning, will be John’s son, Alex. He represents the fourth generation to manage a successful  A.J. Price store, located on Hwy. 531. It’s a location that wasn’t…until it was.

“I had some property on 531 and one day I noticed there was equipment all over it. I started getting phone calls saying congratulations on your new store,” John said. “I called Alex and asked what’s going on, do you have a contract? He said, ‘No, I don’t have a contract. We just decided we’d get started.’ Our lawyer almost had a cat.”

With two stores, and a fourth generation, the A.J. Price name might be around for awhile.

“We’ve been so blessed, and Alex has done very well,” John said. “I think there’s a good chance we’ll be around for a little while longer.”

By Bonnie Culverhouse

A windy day did not interfere with the turning of dirt at Minden’s Recreation Center Enhancement project Wednesday.

Even though work has already begun, members of the Minden City Council, the mayor and city employees took the time for an official groundbreaking ceremony near Field One where workers will be rolling out the green carpet in the next few days.

“Discussion began in the summer of 2024. At that time, we were talking about improving three fields … just three,” Mayor Nick Cox told the crowd, which also consisted of Simpson Sports Engineering owner Jesse Simpson, Fusion Architects’ Jason Jones, GEOSurfaces contractor Stuart Bledsoe and Assistant City Attorney Neil Irwin.

“That was the starting point,” the mayor continued. “Then the conversation grew.”

While improving baseball and softball fields, the conversation expanded to include football and soccer fields, as well as basketball and tennis courts.

Acreage also expanded, as the City purchased one acre first, then four and last year an additional 73 acres bringing the total to 78.

The City expects to host more ball tournaments in the future, adding to the economy with travelers staying in local hotels and eating at local restaurants and therefore increasing the tax base.

“Economically, you will see tremendous growth from this project,” Simpson said. “And you will see an incredible number of people coming through here.”

Revenue generated will be reinvested in the community.

“This project is designed to sustain itself and continue improving,” Cox said.

District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass said the project would be difficult without the recreation center staff.

“They are taking it onboard for a whole new era,” Pendergrass said. He went on to praise the grounds’ crews, headed up by Doug King and Rec Center Director Zita Williams for their work.

“It wasn’t that long ago that Ms. Zita and I were on this very field shoveling dirt and rocks so the kids could play on it,” he said.

The mayor added, “This project is about our kids – Minden kids and kids from surrounding communities having a first-class place to grow up playing ball. This is just the beginning.”

Top photo: GEOSurfaces contractor Stuart Bledsoe, Grounds Crew Director Doug King, Rec Center Director Zita Williams, Simpson Sports Engineering owner Jesse Simpson, District C Councilwoman Latasha Williams, District A Councilman Carleton “Buddy” Myles, Mayor Nick Cox, Rec Center Project Director Zach Harrison, District E Councilman Andy Pendergrass, District D Councilman Michael Roy and District B Councilman Levon “Charlie” Thomas.

By Shannon Wright 

The Doyline Town Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday, March 2, at Doyline Town Hall with a memorable beginning.

With renovations recently completed at the town hall, the American flag has not yet been reinstalled inside the building. As a result, the mayor and council members stepped outside around the flag to begin the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. With the sun setting in the background, the outdoor gathering provided a memorable and patriotic start to the evening’s business.

Mayor Christie Carter Gates and council members used the meeting to remind residents of the importance of reporting incidents involving vicious dogs to the proper authorities.

“Unless it’s reported, there is nothing that can be done about the situation,” Gates said. She noted that while several residents have spoken to her personally about concerning incidents, formal reports have not been filed.

Officials stressed that each occurrence must be documented so authorities can determine whether there is a pattern of dangerous behavior rather than a one-time event. The primary concern, they said, is preventing a serious injury, particularly to a child.

Council members urged residents not to assume someone else has made a report and to take responsibility for contacting authorities when issues arise.

In other business, sewer operator, Mike Dunaway, reported that the previously discussed repairs have been completed.

“Everything is working fine and the plant looks good,” Dunaway said.

However, he noted two concerns at the sewer plant site. The chain and lock at the facility have been broken off, and the electrical box located at the pole has been broken. The council discussed possible solutions to address the damage and prevent further tampering.

Mayor Gates also mentioned that the red light indicator at College and Strong streets needs repair. Dunaway said he would address the issue soon to ensure it is easier to identify when pumps are down.

Council members reported that dirt work at the site of the new maintenance building at the end of College Street has been completed and the next phase of construction will begin soon.

Village leaders encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious or unlawful activity, including theft, break-ins, vandalism, or dangerous animals.

The Doyline Town Council meets on the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Doyline Town Hall. 

Community members are welcome to attend meetings to stay informed about local projects and decisions affecting the village.

By Pat Culverhouse

A manpower shortage in the Webster Parish Police Jury’s road department has jury members and the parish road superintendent actively looking for qualified applicants.

“Right now we have 18 employees in the road department and that’s down quite a lot,” Road Superintendent Teddy Holloway told road committee members Tuesday. “I have had as many as 40 in the past. We need workers.”

Holloway told committee members the shortage is something he’s been trying to address.

“We’re looking for people, but we’ve not had much success,” he said. “What we need are truck drivers with CDLs and equipment operators. We need people especially in our Sarepta yard.”

Jury President Jim Bonsall said the shortage has an impact on what the police jury can do to maintain parish roads.

“We don’t have a whole lot of money, but when we don’t have enough workers it makes it even harder to keep up with our road maintenance,” Bonsall told jury members.

In other business, police jury members:

• Approved 2025 beer and video poker license renewals for Minden Truckstop & Casino (1629 Hwy. 531) and Pot ‘O Gold Casino (230 Goodwill Rd.).
• Appointed Allen Timmons to four-year term on the Sarepta Water Works District, term to expire Feb., 2030.
• Gave approval to a pair of ordinances authorizing the parish to sell certain adjudicated properties.
• Heard reports from parish and community agencies.

Results of parish baseball and softball teams from early this week.

Minden High School

Crimson Tide 21, Union Parish 3 (Tuesday)

Glenbrook School

Quitman 14, Apaches 2 (Monday)

Lakeside High

Warriors 7, Grant 3 (Monday)

Lady Warriors 10, Simsboro 0 (Monday)

Lady Warriors 22, Red River 1 (Tuesday)

Doyline High

Panthers 14, Southwood 3 (Monday)

The Glenbrook 1976 LISA Class A Boys State Basketball Champions held a 50-year reunion at the school this past Saturday.  Organizers said there was “A great turnout for dinner and reception!”

Springhill Medical Center, which was recently recognized as a 2026 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, is seeking a nursing staff.

Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants can apply for full-time and PRN positions.

SMC is the only rural hospital in Louisiana to earn the Top 100 distinction. The program honors outstanding performance among rural hospitals nationwide, based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®—the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital excellence.

Apply at www.smccare.com .

*PRN is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase pro re nata, meaning “as needed” or “as the situation arises.”

BOSSIER CITY – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, there will be brief, intermittent lane closures on the Arthur Ray Teague Parkway at the Jimmie Davis Bridge (LA 511) in Bossier City.

These lane closures are anticipated to take place in 15-20 minute intervals in both directions for the purpose of moving equipment across the road related to the ongoing Jimmie Davis Bridge replacement project.

These brief lane closures are scheduled to take place through the month of March 2026, and should have minimal impact to traffic.

Construction on the overall project continues to move ahead, with the new bridge expected to be complete in mid-late 2027, weather and other factors permitting.

Central Elementary in Dubberly celebrated Read Across America Week by hosting readers to model good reading for students on Tuesday, March 3.  Students were treated to readings by community leaders and friends. Visitors included representatives from Webster Parish Schools District Office, Webster Parish Libraries, Minden Medical Center, B1 Bank, Sheriff Jason Parker’s Office, including Sheriff Parker and Chief Deputy Hank Haynes.

This is the first event like this for the new Central Librarian, Ms. Kerrie Gotshall. Gotshall said, “I remember having people read to me as a child, and I was always so fascinated with the work they did in our communities. It is so fun to watch the magic our students show when our local celebrities read.  As a mom of two young girls, I can tell you, they felt so special with their visitors. We cannot thank everyone enough for taking the time out of their day to come and give back to our school.”

Central Elementary Principal, Daniel Lee, emphasizes the importance of this event by highlighting that this is one of the first events Central wanted to make sure they brought back when schools had limited public access.The passion for literacy only continues to grow. Lee points out the unique nature of this event’s importance, “We stress the importance of reading daily at CES; it is a pleasure to have so many community members and leaders join us to celebrate the importance of reading with our students.”

Each year, the NEA celebrates reading in conjunction with Dr. Seuss’s birthday by recognizing Read Across America Week. 

As we kick off National Nutrition Month, it’s the perfect time to focus on building healthier habits starting with your snacks. Small changes can make a big difference, and choosing nourishing, lowcalorie options is an easy way to support your health every day. If you’re hoping to save money and avoid the added cost of convenience snacks, preparing your own is a smart place to start.

Here are some simple 100 to 200calorie snack ideas that are budgetfriendly, reduce food waste, and help keep you satisfied between meals. These easy options can set the tone for a month and a year of healthier choices. National Nutrition Month is all about making manageable, longlasting changes, and these snacks are a great way to get started.

1. Low-fat cottage cheese (4oz.) with 2 canned pear halves (in own juice): 80 calories
2. Air-popped popcorn (3 cups or 1 oz.): 95 calories
3. Graham crackers (8 small rectangles or 2 full squares): 100 calories
4. Thin pretzel sticks (48 sticks or 1 oz.): 100 calories
5. Celery (5 pieces) with peanut butter (1 Tbsp): 100 calories
6. Unsweetened applesauce (1 cup): 100 calories
7. Apple (small) with low-fat cheese (2 oz.): 150 calories
8. Baby carrots (10) with hummus (1/4 cup): 150 calories
9. Peanuts (a handful or 1 oz.): 175 calories
10. Raw or toasted almonds (23 whole or 1 oz.): 170 calories
11. Walnuts (14 halves or 1 oz.): 190 calories
12. Pecans (20 halves or 1 oz.): 200 calories
13. Low-fat yogurt (6 oz.): 175 calories (or less)
14. Tortilla chips (12 chips or 1 oz.) with salsa (1/2 cup): 175 calories
15. Whole wheat crackers (10) with peanut butter (1/2 Tbsp): 175 calories
16. Raisins (50 or about 1 oz.): 85 calories

(Shakera Williams, M.P.H. is Assistant Nutrition Extension Agent- FCS for Webster/Claiborne parishes. Contact her at (318) 371-1371.)

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

Thursday

Partly sunny, with a high near 83. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night

Increasing clouds, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph.

Friday

Partly sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night

A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 9 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 50 percent.

Saturday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 78. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent.

Saturday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a low around 60. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Sunday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 73. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Sunday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 61.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

March 9

6 .m. Night at the Museum, 116 Pearl St., Minden. Brian Davis, Executive Director of the Louisiana Trust for Historic Preservation will be guest speaker. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; seating is limited.

March 10

Deadline to sponsor 2026 Springhill, North Webster Chamber of Commerce Banquet. Email chamber@springhillla.com . Tickets go on sale April 1.

March 12

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music, food trucks, family friendly fun.

March 13

10:45 a.m. until noon, Veteran’s Meet and Greet with meal at Webster Parish Council on Aging, 1482 Sheppard St., Minden.

March 20

7 p.m., Malpass Brothers Show, CAC building, Springhill. Tickets are $ 25.00 for general admission and $ 30.00 for reserved seats. You can purchase tickets at Express Tax Title & License at 101 N Main Street or call (318) 539-2750.

March 24

7 p.m. 84th Annual Greater Minden Chamber Awards Gala. Minden Civic Center, Minden, La. Tickets: greatermindenchamber.com/awardsgala.

April 1-April 9

2026 Chamber of Commerce Banquet, Springhill, North Webster. Tickets: chamber@springhillla.com .

April 9

5 until 7 p.m., Bites & Beats, Miller Quarters Park, Minden, live music with Cynthia Sandidge, food trucks, family friendly fun.

6 p.m. Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, Springhill Civic Center.

April 18

9 a.m. until noon, Arms Around Autism, Autism Acceptance Walk, Miller Quarters Park, Minden. Vendors, bounce house, resources, sensory-friendly kid zone.

Word of the Day: Enormity

Phonetic: /e·nor·mi·ty/
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: the great or extreme scale, seriousness, or extent of something perceived as bad or morally wrong.
“a thorough search disclosed the full enormity of the crime”
a grave crime or sin.
“the enormities of the regime.”