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Jeremiah J. Richardson, 27, 100 block Eason Lane, Dubberly: arrested May 26 by WPSO for no insurance, on warrants from Minden PD and Bossier Parish SO. No bond set. 

Amaru Henley, 23, 2100 block Janna Lane, Fort Worth, Texas: turned himself in to WPSO on warrant for illegal use of a weapon. Bond set $20,000.

Zytwone Robinson, 22, 1200 block Fulton St., Minden: arrested May 26 by Minden Marshal’s Office on bench warrants for failure to appear. Bond set $7,500. 

Floyd L. Starling, 61, 12000 block County Rd., Panola, Texas: arrested May 26 by Minden PD for one-way driving, DWI third offense. Bond set $25,001. 

Rickey D. McGraw, 42, 400 block Lee, Cullen: arrested May 27 by WPSO on warrant for failure to appear on criminal neglect of family. No bond set. 

Shantay Miles, 38, 100 block South 1st St., Sibley: arrested May 27 for simple criminal damage to property. No bond 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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Joshua Kyle Woods
August 25, 1982 — May 25, 2026
Minden, La.
For funeral arrangements, contact Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, 318-377-3412.

Mary Alice Goode
March 5, 1952 — May 22, 2026
Cotton Valley
For funeral arrangements, contact Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden, 318-377-3412.

James Marshal Moorehead
May 5, 1938 — May 10, 2026
Minden, La.
Visitation: 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, May 29, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Burial: Minden Cemetery.

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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CLAIBORNE/WEBSTER PARISHES – The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development announces a $679,800 project to provide repairs to sections of two state highways in Claiborne and Webster Parishes.

The project includes LA 540 from LA 534 to LA 2 northwest of Homer in Claiborne Parish (6.4 miles in length), and LA 792 from LA 531 to the Bienville Parish line in Webster Parish (2.5 miles in length).

Preliminary work on the project has already begun, which includes full-depth base repairs to strengthen the roadway, followed by an asphaltic surface treatment (commonly referred to as a chip seal), new roadway striping, signage, and related work.

A chip seal is a highly effective method of roadway repair, particularly on rural routes, as it involves spraying a layer of liquid asphalt on the existing pavement and covering with crushed rock. This method acts as a shield against water seeping into the roadway and damaging the material over time, extending the service life of the highway.

Motorists should expect intermittent lane closures along both routes, pay attention to advance warning signage, adhere to reduced speed limits, and never drive while distracted or impaired.

The entire project is anticipated to be complete in late Summer 2026, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.

Below map indicates project limits for LA 540 in Claiborne Parish.

Purchases will be limited to retailers in Louisiana and along the state border

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) announces that beginning May 26, 2026, Louisiana SNAP recipients will only be able to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards for purchases made within the state and in ZIP codes adjacent to Louisiana’s border in neighboring states. The change protects benefits from fraud and out-of-state use, strengthening program integrity and ensuring SNAP dollars support Louisiana grocers, farmers, businesses, and local communities.

EBT cardholders who shop at Louisiana stores and through approved online retailers will not be affected by this policy change. Louisianans who regularly shop just across the state line in Texas, Mississippi, and Arkansas will also experience little to no disruption, as many of those ZIP codes are included under the policy’s in-state designation. Out-of-state purchases occurring outside of the approved areas will be blocked. 

SNAP recipients who are traveling and need temporary access to make purchases outside of Louisiana can request a short-term exemption at lifeincheckebt.com, by calling 888-LAHelp-U (888-524-3578), or by visiting a local LDH SNAP office.

Any temporary out-of-state access will automatically expire at the beginning of the following month, returning the card to the default in-state-only setting.

For more information, including a full list of approved border-area ZIP codes, visit ldh.la.gov/page/electronic-benefits-transfer-ebt or call 888-LAHelp-U (888-524-3578).

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Remembering Memorial Day

More than 53,000 Americans died on World War I battlefields.  Nearly 300,000 in World War II.  More than 33,000 in Korea.  More than 47,000 in Vietnam.

Always, and especially currently in the Middle East, the chance exists for deaths of Americans defending our country.

The numbers are seldom accurate for battlefield deaths.  That itself speaks to the horror and inhuman quality of what happens when countries collide, when warrior after warrior falls and becomes a number, maybe one uncounted.

No matter the final total, each was one.  And that One counted to friends and family.  It counted more than just about anything else did.  Someone was handed a folded flag.  Teary eyes heard Taps.  Real brothers and fathers and sons and daughters died. 

An empty chair.

“Greater love has no one than this,
that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

In The Message, Eugene Peterson translates that verse in this way:

“It is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends.”

In the backwash of Memorial Day, it is helpful and healthful to remember that someone died for us.  Some of those men and women, we will never know.  Heroic strangers —  wartime death, the ultimate sacrifice to freedom — should inspire us all, through love, to help and heal each other with goodness and understanding.

Today and every day is a good day to remember that through one good man’s death, through His blood, an otherwise fatal and eternal debt was paid, one that will lead to the end of war and death.  Every day is a good day to remember we were all bought with a price. Until the human heart can grasp enough to at least hint at the full meaning of and reality of Christ’s death, it can’t grasp the beautiful simplicity of the gospel, which is not about what we can do, but instead is about what has already been done for each of us.

Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

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Friday is election day … for City of Minden Pet Mayor.

It’s the deadline to vote for someone’s pet to serve as the next Mayor and City Council of Minden.

The 2026 Pet Mayor Election is LIVE. Voting is open from today through May 29 and will be done through the following link: https://app.seemylegacy.com/community/2484/campaign/9089

Each vote costs $5 with proceeds going to Minden Animal Control’s new center. May the best pet win!

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Ever dreamed of becoming a Master Gardener?  Now is your chance. The LSU AgCenter is accepting applications for the next Piney Hills Louisiana Master Gardeners class, scheduled for June through September. Membership is open to all adults in Northwest Louisiana. Master Gardeners are the volunteer arm of the LSU AgCenter. They are trained in horticulture in exchange for 40 hours of volunteer service, sharing what they have learned with other gardeners.

Volunteer opportunities include organizing and staffing the annual garden tour, annual seminar, along with the spring Plant Sale, teaching children about gardening, creating, and maintaining demonstration gardens and assisting in local parish extension offices.

So, what will you learn? Topics include insects, plant health, vegetables, fruits, turf, ornamentals and more. Classes, both lecture and hands-on, are taught by Louisiana Cooperative Extension specialists, university professors and other horticulture experts.

Classes will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Tuesday for 11 weeks, starting June 16, 2026. Attendance at all classes is required for certification. There is a $165 registration fee, which covers the cost of training manuals, publications and supplies for the class. If you enroll before April 20, you will receive a $25 discount. The registration deadline is May 22, 2026. 

Call 318-927-3110 or 318-371-1371, to request an application, or download one at http://www.phlmg.com (Programs and follow the links.) or jmonzingo@agcenter.lsu.edu

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A few weeks ago, I wrapped up facilitating another session of Financial Peace University at my church. Truth be told, this is one of my favorite things to do. FPU is a nine-week Dave Ramsey program that focuses on helping people beat debt, build wealth, and honor God with their finances. Overall, it’s a very impactful program – but only if the lessons are put into real action. 

For millions of Americans, money is one of the biggest stressors in daily life. Between rising prices, debt payments, and the pressure to keep up financially, many people feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. That is one reason why Dave created FPU.

One of the biggest benefits of Financial Peace University is its simplicity. Personal finance can oftentimes feel confusing, especially when people hear complicated investing terms or conflicting advice online. FPU breaks financial management down into clear action steps that almost anyone can understand. Instead of focusing on complicated theories, the program emphasizes common-sense habits that encourage discipline, budgeting, and long-term financial stability. I’m a firm believer that simple is better. 

At the center of FPU are the “Baby Steps,” which serve as a roadmap for building financial security. These steps help participants focus on one goal at a time rather than trying to solve every financial problem at once.

The first Baby Step is saving a $1,000 starter emergency fund. This initial savings cushion is designed to help people handle small unexpected expenses without relying on credit cards. Whether it is a car repair, medical bill, or broken appliance, having even a modest emergency fund can reduce financial stress and prevent additional debt.

The second Baby Step focuses on paying off all debt except the house using the “debt snowball” method. With this strategy, people list their debts from smallest to largest and aggressively pay them off one at a time. As each debt disappears, the momentum builds. One reason for this approach – rather than paying off the highest interest rate debts first – is that it creates quick wins that help keep motivation high. Instead of feeling trapped by debt forever, participants begin to see measurable progress.

Once debt is eliminated, the third Baby Step is building a fully funded emergency fund containing three to six months of living expenses. This larger savings account provides financial protection against job loss, major medical expenses, or other serious emergencies. Many people say this step gives them tremendous peace of mind because they are no longer living paycheck to paycheck.

The next steps begin focusing on the future. Baby Step Four encourages investing 15 percent of household income into retirement accounts. Financial Peace University emphasizes the importance of consistent long-term investing and preparing for retirement early. Baby Step Five involves saving for children’s college expenses, while Baby Step Six focuses on paying off the home early. Finally, Baby Step Seven is about building wealth and giving generously.

Another major advantage of Financial Peace University is accountability. Many people struggle with finances not because they lack intelligence, but because changing habits is difficult. FPU classes are often taught in group settings through churches, community organizations, or online groups. This creates encouragement and support from others who are working toward similar goals. Participants often feel less alone in their financial struggles and more motivated to stay committed.

The budgeting tools taught in the program are also highly practical. FPU encourages participants to create a monthly budget before the month begins, giving every dollar a purpose. This proactive approach helps families avoid overspending and become more intentional with their money. Over time, budgeting becomes less restrictive and more empowering because people gain confidence knowing where their money is going.

Another reason Financial Peace University has become so popular is its focus on behavior rather than just math. Dave often teaches that personal finance is largely about habits and decision-making. Many people already know they should spend less and save more, but FPU helps provide the structure and motivation needed to actually follow through.

I realize that this column sounds like a paid ad – but it’s not that at all. I’m sharing this with you today because Financial Peace University offers a straightforward plan for people who want to gain control of their finances. And it works. For individuals who feel stuck financially, the program can provide both hope and a clear path forward. 

Visit financialpeace.com to see if there’s an upcoming class in your area, or choose from one of the virtual class options. Trust me – FPU can be a game changer for you and your family.

Tracy L. Campbell is a partner and financial advisor at Meriwether Wealth and Planning, an independent Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) firm headquartered in downtown Minden, La. E-mail Tracy at tracy@meriwether.com. Disclaimer: This content is for general knowledge and education, not a substitute for professional advice.

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way in a month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27 for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night, June 27 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67^th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 25, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 26 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2026 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event.

The slate on Saturday, June 27 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

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He was sticking needles in his arms at 19 because he couldn’t get the cocaine into his system fast enough through his nasal passages. He’d been fired from every job he ever had. He’d been fired by his own brother. Twice.

This kid grew up in a good home. Loving family. Hometown that knew his name. Had every advantage a boy could ask for. Had the world by the tail at one point. Drank his first beer at 14.

By 21 he was lying, cheating, stealing. He had dreams but no method and no plan and no shot at any of them. He’d been evicted from a ratty trailer park and would have been living under a bridge if not for a loving grandmother who took him in. His car hadn’t had a payment made on it in months. He was hiding it from the creditors. That’s the outlaw life he was living.

One night at 2 a.m., leaving a party, he passed a Hattiesburg Police Department car. He glanced in the rearview mirror and saw the car turning around. Something in him said run. So, he ran. He thought he could outrun one cop car. What he didn’t think about were the radios. Within minutes two more were behind him. He turned his headlights off, thinking that would help. That’s the kind of brainless thinking he was capable of in those days. The chase hit 90 miles an hour through residential streets. Thankfully there weren’t any kids out playing.

The cops won the chase. They always do. 

He ended up in the drunk tank with a DUI charge and called his mother. A year earlier she had changed all the locks on her house and put everything he owned out on the back porch in garbage bags. She had been waiting on one of three phone calls for a long time. The hospital, telling her he was injured. The morgue, telling her he was dead. Or the police station. Three calls. Any mother of an addict knows the list. She had run through the scenario in her head a thousand nights. She was grateful it was the police station. 

They both were.

She gave him two options. Go to rehab or sell your car and pay your fine. He didn’t hesitate. Sell the car. Lucky for him the car wasn’t worth enough to cover the fine. So, rehab it was. His plan was to lay low until the smoke cleared and then start partying again.

That boy was me.

In 1983 nobody knew what rehab was. The Betty Ford Center hadn’t been open a year. I did nine weeks in a six-week treatment center, and they sent me to a halfway house in Omaha, Nebraska. Saint Raphael’s. Run by the Catholic Church. In a former mortuary. 

I arrived on a Friday. I’d been locked down for two months and I asked the guys— all of them in their early 20s like me— if we were going out that night. Yes, they said. We’re going out. I was fired up. Then they told me where. They were going skating. I thought, this is it. This is what sobriety is going to be like. I’m 21 years old, I’ve spent my whole adult life in bars and clubs, and now I’m going to be hanging out with a bunch of dudes at a skating rink in Omaha, Nebraska. I almost stayed home. Though I didn’t want to spend a Friday night alone in a former mortuary, so I went.

Here’s the deal. I had fun.

I haven’t been skating since. But on that rink in Omaha in August of 1983, something happened. Call it an epiphany. Call it a spiritual experience. I don’t care what you call it. I was rolling around that floor with a bunch of guys I barely knew, clear headed for the first time in seven years, and I was laughing. Actually laughing. Not the kind of laugh you fake at 2 a.m. in a bar, the real kind. For the first time in my life, I understood that I could have fun and live a good life without alcohol and drugs. That has held up for 43 years.

I write this on the morning of May 25th, my sobriety anniversary.

Back then I didn’t expect to live to 30. The way I was going, I wouldn’t have made 25. I’d given up on myself. God hadn’t. 

That was the difference.

I don’t have many regrets in life. Seriously. I don’t regret my failures, and there have been many. I’m not kidding. I embrace failure these days because there is growth and learning in failure. All failure, besides death, is psychological. Shame is ego. The only fatal failure is the one that makes you quit. But I do have one small regret— in that halfway house I wish someone had asked me then to write down what I hoped for going forward in a sober life. Just a list where I could dream as big as I could imagine. Lofty dreams and goals about what a life without alcohol and drugs might be going forward. I would love to have that list today, the one a 21-year-old version of me might have written. Because I would have so undershot what life has given me. By a lot.

This clean and sober life has given me more than I ever knew to ask for. Not through merit. Through grace. Not material things. Not money. Not status. The real stuff. Real friends. A clear head. A loving family. A career I love. The relational things. The spiritual things. The strength to show up day after day. That’s what matters. 

None of it would have happened if the Hattiesburg Police Department hadn’t won that chase on May 25th, 1983.

Life still brings problems. That’s life. But I’ve learned how to face them. These days I do my best to live in the solution.

If you’re caught up in alcohol or drugs, there’s a way out. There’s hope. If it worked for me, it can work for you. Call 988. Or call me. 601-270-7129. I mean that (Note: if you’re drunk and it’s 2 a.m. I’m going to tell you to call me back in the morning).

And if you’re early in recovery, sit down and make that list. Write it all out. Everything you want from life. Dream bigger than you think you should. Fold it up and put it away. Stay sober. Then one day, five years out, ten years out, maybe 43 years later, you’ll open that list and see how small it really was. And how big your life became.

God can. God will. If sought.

Onward.

Salt Crusted Fish

Salt-crusted fish is a time-honored recipe. The first time I was exposed to it was at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley. One of the chefs there salt-crusted a salmon. Though the best salt-crusted fish I have ever eaten was a sea bass cooked at Da Romano on the island of Burano. Any restaurant that has hosted Ernest Hemingway and Keith Richards during their run is OK in my book. 

It reminded me of an Italian version of the New Orleans mainstay Galitoire’s. The salt-crusted sea bass, however, reminded me of nothing I have ever eaten before. Perfect.

1 each 4-5 lb. whole fish, cleaned, scaled and gutted (preferably bass or snapper)
8 each Large egg whites
2 cups Rock salt
2 cups Kosher salt
2 each Lemons, cut into wedges
Extra virgin olive oil as needed.

Preheat the oven to 450.

Add the egg whites to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment and mix on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes. Reduce speed to low and fold in the salts until thoroughly combined.

Spread a thin layer of the salt and egg mixture on a large baking pan, about ½ cup. Place the fish on the pan and cover completely with the remaining egg and salt mixture. Using your hands, make sure the fish is completely covered and packed tightly, as if you were making a sand castle. 

Bake for 25-30 minutes, remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes. 

Using a wooden spoon or the handle of a chef knife, strike the crust to crack it. At this point you should be able to remove the salt crust in large pieces from the top of the fish. Carefully, fold the top half of the fish towards the spine and place on a serving platter. Divide the meat among 6-8 plates and finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.

(Robert St. John is a chef, restauranteur and published cookbook author who lives in Hattiesburg, Miss.)

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Notice is hereby given that the City of Minden will receive sealed bids as follows:
2 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2026 for perimeter fencing for the Minden Airport.
Bids will be accepted until the dates and times specified and will be publicly opened and read aloud at City of Minden City Hall Conference Room, 520 Broadway, Minden, Louisiana 71055. Please find bid-related documents and place electronic bids at http://www.BidExpress.com.
Bids received after the date and times of opening will not be considered. The City of Minden reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Please See Attached/Download below.
/s/ Melaney Slack
City Clerk
/s/ Nick Cox
Mayor of Minden
05/20/26
05/27/26
06/03/26

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By Brad Dison

The Indianapolis 500, commonly called Indy 500, is a 500-mile automobile race which has become the largest single-day spectator sporting event in the world.  Since its meager beginnings in 1909, people have flocked to the track in record numbers to watch the high-speed thrills.  On May 30, 1941, George “Joie” Chitwood readied his cigar-shaped racecar, the Blue Crown Spark Plug Special, for the Indianapolis 500.  During qualifying, Joie bounced around the track in his racecar and had a hard time keeping his foot on the accelerator.  Out of necessity, Joie used a simple strap to fix the problem.  The other drivers objected to the strap because they thought it was dangerous.  The heads of the AAA Drivers Association agreed and refused to allow Joie to use the strap.  They only relented when Joie promised to release the strap if he thought he was going to crash.  Keep in mind that the cars traveled more than 100 miles per hour.  Joie did not crash that day.  He came in 14^th place and won $620.  (The first-place winner, Floyd Davis, received $29,200.)  Joie believed that using the strap helped his performance in the 1941 Indy 500, but the other drivers remained skeptical.

For decades, the general public remained skeptical as well.  Carmakers often adopt equipment designed for racing cars on their vehicles.  In 1949, now defunct carmaker Nash Motors offered this strap on about 40,000 of their Airflyte and Ambassador models, but over 39,000 of them were removed by dealerships at the request of the owners.  In 1955, Ford offered it as an option on their vehicles, but less than 2% of buyers chose the strap.  In 1958, Saab became the first carmaker to include the strap as part of their standard equipment. 

Although he had nothing to do with its invention, Joie Chitwood made history that day in May 1941 because he was the first driver to wear the strap in the Indy 500.  Today, all race car drivers are required to wear one.  It has also become a requirement in all automobiles.  At that time, the common misperception was that people were safer in a car accident if they were thrown from the wreck rather than behind held inside the vehicle.  They called the strap safety belts, but we know this strap as the seat belt.

Sources:

1.     Robert Tate, “The 1949 Nash was an Entirely New Postwar Design,” MotorCities National Heritage Area, October 1, 2025, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.motorcities.org/story-of-the-week/2025/the-1949-nash-was-an-entirely-new-postwar-design.

2.     “1941 Indianapolis 500 Race Results,” Indianapolis 500 Race Day Stats, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500/history/historical-stats/race-stats/race-results/1941.

3.     “Joie Chitwood (SR.),” National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, accessed May 17, 2026, https://web.archive.org/web/20190619150409/https://www.sprintcarhof.com/helper_pages/FileGet.aspx?id=186.

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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!

May 31 – June 4

6 until 8 p.m., Bistineau Baptist, 195 Bistineau Church Road, Heflin. Register online at https://myvbs.org/vbs-2026-1776109928830 .

June 1 – 3

5:30 – 8 p.m., Emmanuel Baptist Church, 713 Homer Rd., Minden. Pre-K to 6th grade. http://qrto.org/vmq13C .

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.

June 8 – 11

5:30 until 8 p.m., preschool through 5th grade, Lakeview Methodist Church 301 Lakeshore Drive, Minden. A light meal will be served at 5:30.  We invite families to join us Thursday the 11^th at 7:30 for a VBS program followed by an ice cream social.  We welcome all to “Magnified” VBS, discovering the brightness of God in the smallest of things. 

Register online at www.lakeviewminden.com or print and email the completed form to lakeviewunite365@bellsouth.net

June 14 – 18

5:30 until 8 p.m., Central Baptist Church, Springhill, ages three through 6th grade.

June 22 – 26

6 until 8:30 p.m., North Acres Baptist Church. Register at https://onrealm.org/NorthAcresBapti31149/Registrations/Registrants/e37ca670-d1e0-4d26-8e23-b409010037cd?congregantView=true&connect=true&viewIndividualId=cd5677d8-e681-479f-af07-b3fc012389f5 .

July 13 – 17

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

July 26 – 31

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

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Wednesday

A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 7 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent.

Thursday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Thursday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Friday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent.

Friday Night

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1 a.m. Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.

Saturday

A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m. Partly sunny, with a high near 86.

*Information provided by National Weather Service.

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

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.

4 p.m. until 8 p.m., Victory Park, Minden, Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden celebrates 125 years.

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 15-19

Building Bridges of Opportunity Summer Day Camp, males entering grades 6-9 in Minden and surrounding areas. Webster Jr. High School, 700 E. Union St., Minden. For more information, call 318-470-2031.

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.

2 until 6 p.m., Miller Quarters Park, Minden, Daddies With Angels Cookout. Hearts & Halos event to support grieving fathers.

July 9

5:30 p.m. Gather and Grow – Gardening for Pollinators, Webster Parish Extension Office, 1202 Homer Road, Minden. For more information, call 318-371-1371 or 318-927-3110.

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Word of the day: Iconoclast

Phonetic: /icon· o· clast/
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition
a person who attacks settled beliefs or institutions
a person who destroys religious images or opposes their veneration

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Dwymon S. Bridge, 54, Moore St., Minden: arrested May 21 by Minden PD for public intoxication. Bond set $500. 

Harley R. Coile, 25, 5300 block LA Hwy. 2, Sarepta: arrested May 21 by Sarepta PD for resisting arrest. Bond set $500. 

Joseph Nathional McDay, 65, 200 block NE 5th St., Sibley: arrested May 21 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense, possession of CDS Sch. I, careless operation. No bond set.

Kelvin Jason Gipson, 44, 400 block Wright St., Minden: arrested May 24 by Minden PD on bench warrants. Bond set $40,000 surety or $3,300 cash.

Brenden Lowery, 19, 2100 block Coastal Dr., Princeton: arrested May 24 by Minden PD for theft, unlawful sale/purchase/possession of tobacco. Bond set $1,250. 

Willie Jenkins, 70, 2500 block Montgomery Lane, Bossier City: arrested May 25 by WPSO on warrant. Released on own recognizance. 

Juanda Hood, 39, 200 block Willis Rd., Sibley: arrested May 25 by WPSO for disturbing the peace, resisting an officer. Bond set $1,501. 

Michael Damontae Wilson, 43, 300 block Gilbert St., Minden: arrested May 23 by Minden PD on bench warrants. Bond set $500. 

Charles Ray Nicklas, 47, 200 block Pecanview Dr., Minden: arrested May 23 by Louisiana State Police on fugitive warrant, no seatbelt, no driver’s license. No bond set. 

Brandon Lamar Jeter, 35, 9400 block Crooked Creek Dr., Shreveport: arrested May 23 by Louisiana State Police for DWI first offense. No bond 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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Mary Alice Goode
March 5, 1952 — May 22, 2026
Cotton Valley
Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

James Marshal Moorehead
May 5, 1938 — May 10, 2026
Minden, La.
Visitation: 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, May 29, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Funeral service: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026, Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.
Burial: Minden Cemetery.

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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A one-vehicle accident on U.S. Hwy. 80 near W.J. Beck Rd. early Monday has claimed the life of a local woman.

Louisiana State Police investigators said 40-year-old Shatariea Shine’s vehicle was traveling east when her 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier left the roadway and collided with a tree around 7:55 a.m. She was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Preliminary reports indicate Shine was unrestrained at the time of the accident. 

Impairment is not suspected, however standard toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. The accident remains under investigation.

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Attendees can find schedules, session information, logistics, and event updates on the TLS 2026 event page

Thousands of Louisiana educators will gather May 26-28 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans for Teacher Leader Summit the state’s premier professional learning event. This year’s theme, Big Ideas Start Here, reflects the practical, classroom-connected learning happening throughout the Summit.

Find schedules, session information, logistics, and event updates on the TLS 2026 event page before you arrive.

Coach Kim Mulkey Keynotes Opening Session

LSU Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kim Mulkey will deliver the opening session keynote on Tuesday, May 26 at 9 a.m. The pre-show begins at 8:30 a.m. with the live announcement of Louisiana’s 2027 Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year finalists.

Arrive Early

• Monday, May 25: Early check-in is open from 4-6 p.m. at the Convention Center.
• Tuesday, May 26: Opening session pre-show begins at 8:30 a.m. The main show starts at 9 a.m. — plan to be in your seat a few minutes early.

Before You Go

• Download the Cvent Events app and search for Teacher Leader Summit 2026.
• Reserve your session seats through the app.
• Turn on app notifications for daily updates, session changes, and pop-up locations.
• Pack comfortable shoes, a refillable water bottle, chargers, and a light sweater or jacket.
• Share your Summit experience with #LATeacherLeaders.

About Teacher Leader Summit

Teacher Leader Summit is Louisiana’s premier professional learning event. Attendees gain new skills, share their expertise, and collaborate with peers from across the state to make a greater impact on student achievement. Designed for educators serving students from birth to grade 12, the Summit offers sessions for classroom teachers, school and system leaders, school system administrators, counselors, early childhood professionals, and more.

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Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery, a locally owned restaurant, bakery, catering, and community gathering space located in downtown Minden, has been selected as a recipient of an Amex Shop Small® Grant from American Express and Main Street America. The grant will provide Geaux Fresh with $20,000 in funding to expand production capabilities, improve accessibility and safety upgrades, and enhance the overall customer experience at its downtown location.

The project includes upgrades to the upstairs event and production space, including replacement of worn stair carpeting and installation of a wrought iron handrail, as well as the purchase of additional commercial kitchen equipment including a commercial refrigerator, freezer, floor stand mixer, and commercial oven. These improvements will support expanded catering services, bakery production, meal prep offerings, and community events hosted through Geaux Fresh.

“This project is about more than growth,” said owner Jodie Martin. “It’s about creating a safer, more functional, and more welcoming space for our customers while continuing to invest in the community that supports us. We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity and honored to represent Minden on a national level.”

“We are incredibly proud to see the Geaux Fresh team receive this national recognition,” said Sarah Overall, Director of the Minden Main Street Program. “This award reflects the strength of our small business community and the continued momentum happening within downtown Minden. Local businesses like Geaux Fresh are what make our Main Street district vibrant, welcoming, and economically strong. The Minden Main Street Program congratulates Geaux Fresh on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to the continued positive impact the business will have on the downtown district and surrounding region. This grant was only awarded to 10 recipients throughout our State, and we are proud a Small Business from Minden, LA was selected.”

The program was initially launched with a $5 million contribution to support 250 small businesses in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Through a Small Business Saturday giving pledge, an additional $1 was given to the grant program for eligible transactions made on Small Business Saturday, and American Express contributed an additional $5.1 million—expanding the program’s reach and impact to small businesses and the communities they serve.

The 505 recipients reflect the vitality of U.S. small businesses, spanning industries from retail and food service to healthcare and professional services. Grant funding will enable recipients to grow and innovate by expanding operations, investing in critical upgrades, and introducing new offerings.  

“Small businesses play a vital role in our communities,” said Jennifer Skyler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, American Express. “The Shop Small Grants Program builds on our longstanding commitment to small businesses, which began with Small Business Saturday, by putting meaningful investment behind the people and places that drive local impact.”

“At Main Street America, we believe that supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses builds community wealth and a culture of innovation – yet, far too often, this vision isn’t realized due to a variety of factors, including lack of access to resources and funding,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America. “This is why we are so proud to partner with American Express on a program that provides meaningful support to small business owners working to strengthen their livelihoods and their communities.”

Overall states, “If you are interested in becoming part of the continued momentum and growth happening in Minden by opening a small business of your own, contact the Minden Main Street Program at mainstreet@mindenusa.com to learn more about available opportunities, resources, and ways to get engaged.”

For more information about the grant program, visit https://mainstreet.org/about/partner-collaborations/amex-shop-small-grant-program

A full list of this year’s recipients is available at https:/mainstreet.org/the-latest/news/more-than-500-small-business-owners-awarded-20-000-amex-shop-small-grants.

About Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery

Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery is a locally owned restaurant and bakery located in historic downtown Minden, Louisiana. Known for its fresh-made lunches, baked goods, catering services, and community-centered atmosphere, Geaux Fresh continues to serve as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Learn more at Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery.

ABOUT AMERICAN EXPRESS

American Express (NYSE: AXP) is a global payments and premium lifestyle brand powered by technology. Our colleagues around the world back our customers with differentiated products, services, and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. 

Founded in 1850 and headquartered in New York, American Express’ brand is built on trust, security, service, and a rich history of delivering innovation and Membership value for our customers. We seek to provide the world’s best customer experience every day to a broad range of consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, and large corporations, and we build and manage relationships with millions of merchants across our global network. 

For more information about American Express, visit americanexpress.com, americanexpress.com/en-us/newsroom/, and ir.americanexpress.com. 

ABOUT MAIN STREET AMERICA

Main Street America leads a collaborative movement with partners and grassroots leaders that advances shared prosperity, creates resilient economies, and improves quality of life through place-based economic development and community preservation in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts across the country.

For more than 40 years, Main Street America has helped to build economic power in downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts through our signature Main Street Approach™ framework. Founded as the National Main Street Center® in 1980, Main Street America has helped to generate over $115.27 billion in local reinvestment, rehab 345,801 buildings, create 815,894 new jobs, and start 181,647 new businesses in over 2,000 communities.

For more information about Main Street America, visit mainstreet.org.

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