As we fully embrace 2025, the Minden Press-Herald shares some of the top stories of the past year. While far from a comprehensive list, these are some of the best, as chosen by our news team.
This edition will feature stories from October through December.
Animal shelter construction progresses, completion expected by year’s end
Construction of Minden’s new animal shelter is moving forward after earlier delays, with city officials estimating the project could be complete around Christmas.
Brent Cooley, chief building official for the City of Minden, said the project was delayed several weeks while awaiting doors and windows. The building is now “in the dry,” with the roof, plumbing and electrical work in place.
Workers are painting the exterior and beginning sheetrock installation this week. Cooley noted that interior finishes often take the most time. “I would like to say Thanksgiving, but probably more like Christmas,” he said.
The new facility, located next to the current shelter, will expand capacity for dogs and cats and improve adoption services. The project has been in planning for several years and broke ground in March.
Murray named 2025 Young Professional of the Year
The Greater Minden Chamber honored the area’s top young leaders during the 15 Under 40 Awards Gala on October 7 at the Minden Civic Center. The event, presented by TG Companies, drew a large crowd to celebrate the accomplishments of professionals making an impact in the community.
This year’s top honor, the 2025 Terry L. Gardner Young Professional of the Year Award, was presented to Neisa Murray.
“This person has used her gifts not simply to build a career but to build a community. She has turned hardship into hope and vision into opportunity for others,” said Sarah Overall, last year’s award recipient. “Her work has inspired entrepreneurs, uplifted families, and sparked change in ways that is impossible to overlook.”
Murray is the owner of NeNe’s Corner, a graphic design company in Minden. She also organized Pop Up & Pose, a Juneteenth celebration, and founded Hearts & Halos, a nonprofit that supports families experiencing the loss of an infant or pregnancy.
“She doesn’t just talk about change, she creates it. She doesn’t just lift herself, she lifts everyone around her,” Overall said.
This year’s 15 Under 40 honorees were Brianna Arrington, Realtor/Owner of Jadore Real Estate; Jessica Bordelon, controller for Hunt Forest Products; Ashlee Drake, administrative assistant to Mayor Nick Cox; Stephen Dickerson, foreman and crew leader for Mettle Services; Ana Fleming, teacher at Central Elementary; Krystal Friday, principal of J.L. Jones Elementary; Reagan Lee, teacher and coach at Webster Junior High School; Lance McGuire, owner/CEO of Championship Carts and branch manager of Black Label Services; Dr. Sarah McNeil, pediatrician at Busy Bee Pediatrics; Hannah Pevy, instructional coach at the Webster Parish School Board; Tiffany Ritchie, teacher at J.L. Jones Elementary; Dr. Chelsea Shaw, veterinarian at Minden Animal Clinic; Katie Tippen, membership engagement coordinator for the Greater Minden Chamber; and Kyle Towns, owner of Kyle Towns Services.
Presenters for the evening were Carlie Day and Jerame Durden, with guest speaker Max Causey, a Super Bowl official.
The 15 Under 40 Awards program, presented annually by TG Companies, recognizes emerging professionals under age 40 for their leadership, volunteerism, and contributions to the growth of the Greater Minden area.
Minden celebrates strong turnout for National Night Out
National Night Out brought neighbors, city officials and first responders together across Minden on Tuesday night, with eight block parties held in neighborhoods throughout the city.
The annual event, organized locally by District A Councilman Carlton “Buddy” Myles and the City of Minden, encouraged residents to turn on porch lights, lock doors and spend the evening outdoors with neighbors and police.
Mayor Nick Cox said the citywide gatherings reflect Minden’s community spirit.
“National Night Out is one of my favorite community traditions,” Cox said. “It’s a simple idea with real power. Neighbors gather to meet each other, share food, and strengthen the bonds that make Minden a safer, friendlier place to live.”
Residents from several districts shared similar enthusiasm.
In District E, Sarah Haynes hosted on Ridgewood Circle.
“Ridgewood and Southridge all enjoyed the night,” Haynes said. “We had several new neighbors we welcomed to the neighborhood. The ice cream was a big hit. Thanks for the visit from our City Officials who came by!”
The Minden Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. held its event on Martin Luther King Drive in District B.
Freda Ary, chair of the sorority’s Social Action Committee, said the gathering reflected the group’s commitment to service.
“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. mission involves using ‘unwavering advocacy, service, and innovation’ to ‘empower the communities where we live, serve, and represent,’” Ary said.
Darrell Hampton, executive director of 22 Hands Up, hosted the event on Hardy Street in District A. “It was a great night, and it was the perfect platform for 22 Hands Up to invest into our future — which is our youth and our community,” said Hampton.
In District A, Carolyn Marwray and Tina Harris hosted on Sheppard Street.
“Everyone had a great time, we enjoyed everyone,” Marwray said.
Also in District A, the Mt. Zion Lay Ministry hosted a celebration on McMullen Street.
“It was a wonderful neighborhood gathering,” organizer Theron Winzer said. “The Mt. Zion Lay Ministry and neighbors fellowshipped, ate, sang and played. It was a great pleasure for the elected officials and first responders to come out and interact with the community at 701 McMullen Street.”
Management of Harvest Manor Apartments on Lee Street in District B had the theme “Getting to know your neighbors – Neighbors by chance, friends by choice, community by love,” and they expressed, “We enjoyed doing our part in building long lasting relationships between the city officials and the local community.”
At Babb Park in District C, residents gathered for food and fellowship.
“First of all I have to thank God for giving us such a beautiful day for this wonderful event,” organizer Michael Walker said. “It proves to me again and again the love the citizens have for our beautiful city. I love when we all can unite as a community for such a great cause.”
Walker also thanked volunteers and city leaders who helped make the event possible, including those who grilled more than 100 hamburgers and hotdogs and assisted with setup.
This year’s turnout, organizers said, reflected a shared goal of keeping Minden connected. From backyard cookouts to park gatherings, residents across all districts helped show that strong neighborhoods remain at the heart of a strong city.
Cameras catch brothers winging it in chicken restaurant burglary
Two brothers were arrested this week in connection with a burglary at Cotton’s Louisiana Chicken on Shreveport Road, according to Minden police.
Officers were dispatched around 9 AM October 13 to the restaurant, where security footage showed two men entering through a kitchen door around 4 AM and taking two to three money bags containing about $711 and a tip jar full of cash.
Investigators reviewed the surveillance video and identified one of the suspects as Demetrius Miller, 41. Detectives later found Miller at the Minden Motel and took him to the Minden Police Department for questioning.
Police said Miller initially denied involvement but later admitted that he and his brother, Willie Miller, 37, entered the restaurant earlier that morning. Miller told detectives he went inside because he was hungry and looking for food but said his brother took all the money.
Further review of the surveillance footage showed both men rummaging through multiple areas of the restaurant, including the cash register by the pickup window, the register nearest the front entrance, and beneath the front counter, according to police.
Later that evening, patrol officers located Willie Miller at the Minden Motel in a vacant room, where they found money and an item consistent with evidence from the burglary.
Detectives obtained arrest warrants for both brothers on charges of simple burglary. Bonds were set at $30,000 each. Both were booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Witches Ride brings spooky fun and community spirit to downtown Minden
Despite early-morning storms and a gloomy forecast, the 3rd Annual Witches Ride of Minden went on almost as planned Saturday, drawing a crowd for an evening of creativity, costumes, and community giving.
The charitable event, hosted by Pearls of Purpose, Inc., supports the Joe LeBlanc Food Pantry and provides books for first grade students throughout Webster Parish. Organizers said the turnout and enthusiasm were undeterred by the threat of severe weather.
After heavy morning rain, skies cleared enough for the ride to proceed, with participants parading through downtown on elaborately decorated golf carts or on foot. The afterparty and vendor area were moved into the Minden Civic Center due to the forecast, where attendees enjoyed food, shopping, and family-friendly festivities.
Committee member Jessica Bordelon said the event was “an absolute success” and praised the community for coming together despite the weather.
“Not even a little gloomy weather could stop the magic!” Bordelon said. “Our 3rd Annual Witches Ride was an absolute success, filled with laughter, flying brooms, and spooky fun all around. The streets were alive with cackles, creativity, and community!”
Bordelon thanked participants and supporters for making the event a success. “Thank you to everyone who braved the forecast, dressed up, and made this year’s ride one to remember,” she said. “We’re already looking forward to giving back to the community with the proceeds raised from this year’s event.”
Record-breaking crowds turn out for Webster Parish Libraries’ Trunk or Treat events
Webster Parish Libraries’ “Platform 9¾ Trunk-or-Treat Part 2” drew record-breaking crowds across three locations this year, with families turning out in Minden, Springhill, and Doyline to collect candy and enjoy a night of magic, community, and creativity.
The events were held October 23 in Minden, October 30 in Springhill, and October 31 in Doyline. In Minden, attendance was so large that the line stretched down two major streets, while families enjoyed the return of the trolley service transporting guests between the Minden Civic Center and the library.
The Harry Potter-themed celebration featured elaborately decorated trunks from local organizations and a handcrafted indoor attraction designed by library staff. Each stop offered treats and themed displays, providing a safe environment for children to trick-or-treat.
“This year’s Trunk-or-Treat at your Webster Parish Libraries wasn’t just an event — it was a reflection of what makes our community extraordinary,” said Kim Sentell, director of marketing for Webster Parish Libraries. “Attendance across our Minden, Springhill, and Doyline celebrations far surpassed last year’s record-breaking total of 3,400 attendees, showing us that we’re moving in the right direction. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about knowing our community stands behind the vision, creativity, and purpose that guide us in planning one of the most anticipated events of the year.”
Sentell also expressed appreciation to the many organizations and volunteers who contributed to the event.
“On behalf of the Webster Parish Libraries staff, Board of Control, and Director Savannah Jones, we extend our deepest gratitude to every business and organization that showed up despite demanding schedules, rising costs of candy, and personal expenses for decorations,” Sentell said. “Your generosity lit up the night and created memories that will last a lifetime. This event simply wouldn’t be possible without your support.”
Nearly every element of the Harry Potter attraction was handcrafted by staff members, who spent months preparing detailed props and decorations.
“The next time you drive by or walk into one of our six library branches throughout Webster Parish — whether you’re attending a program, seeing us serve alongside community partners, or simply enjoying the many services we offer — we hope you feel that same spirit of dedication, love, and purpose that drives everything we do,” Sentell said.
Library Director Savannah Jones was praised for her leadership and dedication throughout the planning process.
“I’ll never forget Library Director Savannah Jones’ words as she completed her final walkthrough before opening the gates,” Sentell said. “After answering a few last-minute questions, she looked out at the line that wrapped so far around the building we couldn’t see where it ended. With a smile, she said simply, ‘This is because of my staff. Their hard work made this possible.’”
With ideal fall weather, creative decorations, and strong community participation, the 2025 Trunk or Treat events once again showcased the library system’s commitment to providing family-friendly programs that bring Webster Parish together.
Jesse Foshee crowned Miss Louisiana Volunteer 2026
Jesse Foshee, representing Miss Natchitoches, was crowned Miss Louisiana Volunteer 2026 during a sold-out pageant held Friday night at the Civic Center in Minden. The event marked the first time the statewide competition has been hosted in the city and drew attendees from across Louisiana.
Foshee was selected from a field of contestants who competed in talent, interview, fitness and wellness, and evening gown categories. The judging emphasized service, leadership, scholarship, and community involvement.
Runners-up in the Miss division were Anna-Katherine Thompson (Miss Ruston), first; Katelyn Bedwell (Miss UL Lafayette), second; Nihkia Sims (Miss Baton Rouge), third; and Kaitlyn Thomas (Miss Hathaway), fourth.
In the Teen division, Izzy Gray, representing Miss Lafayette Teen, was crowned Miss Louisiana Teen Volunteer 2026. Runners-up were Bella Fontana (Miss Ruston Teen), first; Tiffany Foxworth (Miss Capital City Teen), second; Jansen McDonald (Miss West Monroe Teen), third; and Harleigh Hart (Miss Minden Teen), fourth.
The Miss Louisiana Volunteer pageant, which highlights service and scholarship among young women across the state, will return to Minden next summer.
Team F.O.C takes top honors at Jambin’ on Main
The aroma of simmering jambalaya filled downtown Minden last Saturday as cooks and crowds gathered for the annual Jambin’ on Main Jambalaya Cookoff, held in the alley beside the Drake Building.
Sponsored by Orleans On Main Bistro, the event featured a full lineup of local teams competing for cash prizes, plaques, and bragging rights as the parish’s best jambalaya cooks.
First place went to Team F.O.C, made up of Tommy Sumner and Justin Smart, who took home a $1,000 cash prize, an engraved cook pot, and a commemorative plaque. Second place was awarded to Pot Stirrer, with Ben Gorman and Sha Smith winning $300 and a plaque. Third place went to Ponderosa Pot Stirrers, the team of Randy Stevenson and Hays Brown, who received $200 and a plaque.
The People’s Choice Award also went to Ponderosa Pot Stirrers, who earned an engraved stainless jambalaya paddle and $200 in gift cards from Orleans On Main Bistro, Roma Italian Bistro, Shug’s Ice Cream, and Under Dawgs Sports Grill.
A raffle drawing rounded out the day’s festivities. Wyatt Carson was the winner of a Turtlebox donated by Ace Hardware and a cook pot and cooker donated by A.J. Price.
Along with Orleans On Main Bistro as title sponsor, additional support came from the Minden Historic District, A.J. Price, Roma Italian Bistro, Red Wolf Media, Minden Family Dental, Main Street America, Louisiana Main Street, Ace Hardware, Under Dawgs, Pork & Fork BBQ, The Venue on Pearl, Webster Parish Tourism, Shug’s, and Integrity Homes.
Organizers said this year’s event drew strong participation and enthusiastic crowds, marking another successful year for the downtown cookoff.
Michael Walker honored as Citizen of the Year
Michael Walker received the Citizen of the Year award from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. (Gamma Omicron Chapter) on November 9 in recognition of his service and contributions to the community.
The fraternity’s chapters across the country annually present the award to individuals who demonstrate a sustained commitment to humanity and community impact.
Walker, long involved in civic and outreach efforts in Minden, organizes the annual Michael and Chequella Walker Fan Drive with his wife, providing more than 100 fans each year to local residents. He serves as co-chairman of the Martin Luther King Celebration Committee, chairman of the Juneteenth Celebration Committee, and host of National Night Out in Minden.
He also leads the annual Prayer in the Park event and meets weekly with the Men of Courage each Friday in downtown Minden for community prayer. Walker and his wife helped form Walker’s Holding LLC, an organization focused on community service.
Walker devotes additional time to comforting grieving families through 21st Century Funeral Home. His leadership was further recognized with his selection to the 2025 Webster Leadership Academy, presented by the Minden Chamber of Commerce.
A member of St. Rest Baptist Church, Walker serves on the AV Committee and participates in Sunday School and Wednesday night Bible study.
His wife, Chequella Walker, noted his dedication, saying, “Congratulations! Your hard work and perseverance does not go unnoticed. This award is a testament that others notice your dedication of community involvement to the citizens of Minden. I am so proud of you and your selfless service. Continue being a good steward of the talents and resources God has given you.”
Walker is supported by his wife; their children, Jasmine Cooksey and Michael Dominique Walker; daughter-in-law, Diamond Walker; and five grandchildren.
“I don’t do it for the praise and awards; I do it to help my fellow man and community and people of Minden,” Walker said.
The recognition underscores the breadth of Walker’s involvement in civic, faith-based, and service efforts and highlights his continued role in community-focused initiatives throughout Minden.
Vogue and Bows Fashion Show draws large crowd for Hers Bridal’s 50th anniversary
An enthusiastic crowd filled Hers Bridal on Saturday night as the boutique marked its 50th anniversary with the Vogue and Bows Fashion Show, a high-energy runway event featuring local models, designs from regional boutiques, and legacy gowns.
The show, held at the shop’s Main Street location, drew strong attendance and steady applause throughout the evening. Guests filled both VIP and general seating areas as the runway opened with presentations of couture bridal and formal looks as well as casual wear. Organizers said the event was created to blend editorial-style fashion with community celebration.
Models showcased gowns and formalwear from Hers Bridal, His Department, Say Baby, Simply Chic, Sloans Formal, and other participating retailers. The event also featured a display of legacy bridal gowns worn by local women on their wedding days, highlighting styles and traditions from past decades.
Crowd reactions remained enthusiastic, but one moment drew the night’s loudest response. Local resident Art Campbell closed a segment of the show to a standing ovation, prompting cheers that briefly brought the runway to a halt.
Hers Bridal owner Alicia Adams said the milestone reflected both the shop’s history and its connection to the community. “Celebrating 50 years of creating life moments for our community moments has been the most fulfilling thing in my life. Hers is my legacy to Minden and I plan on her being here for another 50 years!”
The event included photo installations, signature décor, and music throughout the 45-minute presentation. VIP guests attended a pre-show cocktail hour, and food and beverage stations operated during the evening.
The Villas at Spanish Court project earns state Brownfield honor
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has recognized The Villas at Spanish Court in Minden as one of eight successful Brownfield redevelopment projects honored during the 2025 Louisiana Brownfield Awards held November 18 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette LITE Center.
The award highlights the ongoing restoration led by Minden resident and developer Sara McDaniel, who returned the long-vacant 1931 apartment complex to productive use. “This recognition from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality means so much,” McDaniel said. “Restoring The Villas at Spanish Court proved that when we honor the past and steward the land well, we create spaces our community can be proud of. I’m thankful to help breathe new life into Minden in a way that’s both beautiful and sustainable.”
The Villas at Spanish Court, originally constructed by F.C. McClanahan, once housed some of the most modern apartments in Louisiana. The three-building, eight-unit complex had been empty since the 1980s and had deteriorated significantly. Environmental remediation needs — including asbestos, lead paint and structural damage — placed the property squarely within the definition of a Brownfield site: a vacant or underused property where real or perceived contamination complicates redevelopment.
The Brownfield Awards honor projects supported by the EPA Brownfields Program, which provides grants and technical assistance to assess, clean and return such properties to productive use. This year, Louisiana secured more than $6.8 million in EPA Brownfield Grants for assessments, cleanup and redevelopment statewide.
Alongside The Villas, additional projects recognized include sites in New Orleans, Lafayette, Ruston, Homer and Shreveport. LDEQ noted that each project demonstrates the impact of federal, state and local partnerships in overcoming financial and regulatory barriers that can stall redevelopment.
McDaniel’s work at the Minden site includes extensive remediation and reconstruction while preserving original features of the Spanish-style architecture. Restoration has included rebuilding damaged structural components, removing and replacing materials affected by lead paint, and working with local millwork specialists to recreate historic wood elements. The project has been featured nationally through Cottages & Bungalows and American Farmhouse Style magazines.
LDEQ applauded all project teams for advancing environmental stewardship and community revitalization across Louisiana.
Christmas in Minden ushers in holiday season with packed weekend of festivities
Christmas in Minden wrapped up a successful weekend of holiday events December 12–14, drawing large crowds downtown for seasonal activities, entertainment and community traditions.
The celebration opened Friday night with the tree lighting ceremony at City Hall, followed by multiple events across downtown, including the Holiday Trail of Lights hayride, the Downtown Minden Wine Walk and the Presents on Pearl vendor market.
Mayor Cox addressed the crowd during the ceremony, highlighting the meaning behind the event and the season.
“There’s no better place to be at Christmas than right here in downtown Minden,” Cox said. “The reason we light the tree is to remember the Light of the world, and the Light of the world is Jesus. And I just want to say that I’m proud to be the mayor of a city that is proud that we celebrate the Light of the world.”
Saturday’s activities continued with shopping, museum events and A Hometown Christmas Parade. Weather conditions aligned closely with the parade schedule, with cool temperatures providing a seasonal atmosphere while remaining comfortable for spectators. The parade ended just before a rain storm moved through the area.
Community members and visitors filled downtown throughout the evening for the parade and other festivities, contributing to strong turnout across events.
The weekend concluded Sunday with the Christmas Tour of Homes, hosted by Visit Webster Parish. Organizers said the homes featured on the tour were well received by those who attended.
Christmas in Minden is presented annually as a community celebration bringing together residents, businesses and visitors to mark the holiday season in downtown Minden.
Live Nativity embraces the spirit of Christmas
A steady stream of visitors moved through downtown Minden on Saturday night, December 21, for the second annual Live Nativity, experiencing a walking presentation of the Christmas story.
Those attending followed a designated path that began with the Annunciation and concluded with the Magi paying homage to the Christ child. The experience featured costumed actors, detailed sets and live animals placed throughout the route.
The event took place along streets that were closed to traffic, allowing participants to walk through downtown Minden while viewing Christmas lights and Nativity scenes in a peaceful, pedestrian setting.
Participating groups included Minden Main Street, Visit Webster, Minden Mayor Nick Cox, Minden Police Chief Jared McIver, Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker, Assessor Denise Edwards, Emmanuel Baptist Church, First Methodist Church Minden, Lakeview United Methodist Church, Liberty Christian Ministries International, Living Word Minden, Minden High School Choral Group, Minden Presbyterian Church, Pearls of Purpose, St. John’s Episcopal Church and St. Paul Catholic Church.
Organizers said the Live Nativity continued to draw community members and visitors in its second year, offering an opportunity to observe scenes depicting the birth of Christ and related events from the Gospel accounts.
