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 for July through September, and tomorrow’s edition will continue from there.
Minden to host 2025 Miss Louisiana Volunteer pageant
The City of Minden announced Monday that it has been selected as the host city for the 2025 Miss Louisiana Volunteer state pageant, with the final competition set to take place this November.
Mayor Nick Cox made the announcement during a July 7 press conference. “It’s a great opportunity for us; it’s about our economic growth and it has a lot to do with our civic pride. We’re very excited about showcasing the best parts of Minden,” Cox said.
The multi-day pageant is expected to bring hundreds of visitors to Minden, generating revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.
“This is a time to celebrate a meaningful partnership, which we believe will be transformative to our city for many years to come,” said Sarah Overall, Minden’s Director of Economic Development. “This partnership is more than just a cultural event, it is a strategic opportunity for economic growth, visibility, and a long-term impact.”
Overall cited the national Miss Volunteer America competition in Jackson, Tennessee — a city similar in size to Minden — which brings an estimated $4 million in annual economic impact.
“Beyond the economic numbers, this event allows us to spotlight the values that we’re proud of: service, education, and leadership,” she said. “Their presence here in our city will inspire our youth and deepen our community engagement.”
The 2025 state-level event will be directed by Kayla Rodriguez, a Minden native and former Miss Minden.
“It’s state level; it’s going to be high production, high quality,” Rodriguez said. “I didn’t choose Minden randomly. I chose it because I know the heart of this town. I’ve lived in this town and I’ve seen what happens when the right opportunities meet the right support, and what that can do for young women.”
The Miss Volunteer program partners with St. Jude Children’s Research Center, and part of the pageant weekend will include a gala fundraiser benefiting the hospital.
Thanks to private sponsorships, the 2026 Miss Louisiana Volunteer titleholder will receive a $15,000 cash scholarship, while the Teen titleholder will be awarded $5,000.
“I am so proud to say that Miss Louisiana Volunteer’s home is Minden,” Rodriguez said.
More information is available at www.misslouisianavolunteer.com or by contacting Kayla Rodriguez at [email protected].
Back to School Bash draws more than 1,000 attendees across Webster Parish
With the new school year just days away, more than 1,000 students and their families turned out for the 17th Annual Back to School Bash on Sunday, filling the campuses of Webster Junior High School and North Webster High School for an afternoon of celebration, support, and preparation.
Hosted by Webster Parish Schools, the event offered a wide range of free resources designed to help students get a strong start to the academic year. Each child received a school supply bag and had the opportunity to visit a pop-up clothing store. Families also received food boxes, and students could take advantage of free haircuts offered on site.
In addition to essentials, the event had a festive atmosphere with snow cones, cotton candy, popcorn, and a variety of other snacks. Door prizes and interactive stations added to the fun, making the event feel more like a fair than a traditional giveaway.
“It was a huge success for the students and families,” said Community Liaison Ursula Hullaby. “We are grateful for all who assisted and attended. We are looking forward to the start of a great school year.”
Superintendent Johnny Rowland praised the event and the community effort behind it.
“Incredible, awesome, selflessness by many people are words that first come to mind,” Rowland said. “I can’t thank Ms. Hullaby and her very large team enough for this event! Our students and parents were so grateful in Minden and Springhill. I watched in awe as I thought, ‘Our school system is doing this for our kids.’ Sometimes words really are not sufficient… and we’ve done it for so many years now.”
The bash was funded entirely through donations from local organizations, businesses, and individuals. Two of the event’s premier sponsors provided transportation assistance for attendees by offering rides to and from their vehicles. They also contributed additional day-of donations and decorations that helped transform the campuses into welcoming, celebratory spaces.
Teachers and staff from schools across the parish were on hand to greet students and parents, providing an early opportunity to build connections before the first day of school on August 11.
Now in its 17th year, the Back to School Bash continues to serve as a cornerstone of community engagement in Webster Parish, combining fun with meaningful support to ensure students head into the classroom prepared, confident, and excited for the year ahead.
10-digit dialing to become mandatory in 318 area code August 25
Residents of Webster Parish and other northern Louisiana communities will be required to use 10-digit dialing for all local calls beginning Monday, August 25, as part of a statewide change to prepare for a new area code.
The Louisiana Public Service Commission approved adding the 457 area code to the region currently served by 318, which covers cities such as Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, Alexandria and Ruston, along with surrounding rural areas. The change, known as an overlay, will allow new numbers to be issued without changing existing ones.
Since February 24, callers have been able to use either 7- or 10-digit dialing during a transition period. After August 25, calls made with only 7 digits may not be completed and will receive a recording instructing callers to hang up and try again with the area code.
On September 25, new telephone lines or services may begin receiving numbers with the 457 area code. Both 318 and 457 numbers will require dialing the area code plus the 7-digit number for local calls.
Local call boundaries, call costs and three-digit services such as 911 and 988 will not change. Long-distance calls will continue to require dialing 1 plus the area code and number.
Residents and businesses are advised to update equipment and services that use 7-digit dialing, including alarm systems, fax machines, medical monitoring devices, speed dial lists, call forwarding settings, voicemail services and any automated calling systems. Stationery, checks, advertising materials and ID tags should also be updated to include the area code.
For more information, residents can contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission or visit its website.
Smart reflects on first year as mayor, looks ahead to town’s future
Mayor Robert Smart is marking one year since stepping into the role of mayor for the Town of Sibley, following the death of longtime Mayor Jimmy Williams in January 2024. After completing the remainder of Williams’ term, Smart was elected unopposed to serve his first full term later that year.
“The new council and I are determined to carry on the vision that Jimmy had for Sibley,” Smart said. “We have struggled but I think we can be proud of where we are.”
Smart served as an alderman in Sibley for 25 years prior to becoming mayor. He said the shift into his new role has come with challenges — especially the around-the-clock nature of the job.
“The biggest adjustment in the transition between alderman and mayor is the continuous thought process,” he said. “Fishing isn’t just fishing anymore, it’s ‘Where are we going to get funding for this project.’ Or at 3AM when your eyes pop open with ‘I need to contact Representative McMahen about…’”
He added that the role requires constant research, learning, and an understanding of legal and financial boundaries, including how to properly balance the town’s budget.
As for his administration’s priorities, Smart said he is focused on completing unfinished work from the previous mayor’s term, improving infrastructure, and maintaining the town’s appearance.
“My goals are to complete the projects that Mayor Williams started and was unable to complete,” he said. “To clean and maintain Sibley’s appearance for our citizens and those passing through. To provide safe and clean water to our customers.”
Several of those projects are already underway. Contracts have been signed for a street project affecting Weatherton Street, NE 5th Avenue, and Jones Street. The town is also nearing completion of its water system consolidation with Saltworks, which includes a new sand filter and an additional well to improve water quality.
Additionally, Sibley recently received state funding for water infrastructure upgrades, sewer improvements, and parks and recreation.
Another milestone on the horizon: Sibley will host the Small Town Mayors Conference in September for the first time. The event will bring municipal leaders from across the state to share ideas and solutions for small-town governance.
Smart attributes Sibley’s strength to its people and core values.
“Sibley stands out because our citizens and officials have pride in our town,” he said. “We have some old-fashioned, small-town values, a good school, minimal crime, and a strong sense of community.”
For those considering entering public service, Smart advised being prepared for a meaningful commitment.
“My advice to someone wanting to be involved in public service would [be] to be willing to dedicate time and thought if you plan to make a difference,” he said.
Council upholds termination of Minden detective
Former Minden Police Detective Jason Smith is no longer employed with the department or serving as president of the Minden Police Association following the City Council’s unanimous vote this week to uphold his termination.
The council met in a special session August 25 and accepted Police Chief Jared McIver’s recommendation to terminate Smith after an internal investigation into his conduct. The council entered executive session for about an hour before returning to vote.
Smith’s attorney, Ms. Breedlove, had asked for the matter to be heard publicly, but the city’s special counsel, Aaron Green of Faircloth, Melton, Bash & Green, LLC, advised the council to deliberate in executive session.
“As he [Smith] is the subject of this investigation, he has the right to having his hearing and all the discussions about him held in public, and that is his desire,” Breedlove said.
Green responded that open meetings law did not require the hearing to be public, again recommending executive session. Councilman Andy Pendergrass, District E, made the motion to enter executive session, seconded by Councilman Buddy Myles, District A.
When the council returned, Councilwoman Latasha Michell, District C, moved to uphold McIver’s recommendation, with Pendergrass seconding. The vote was unanimous.
Smith confirmed he is no longer civil service or MPA president and said he is not at liberty to speak about the details of the case pending consultation with his attorney.
“They also lost 22 years of investigative experience,” Smith said.
Officials at City Hall declined further comment on the matter. “We are unable to comment on this ongoing proceeding other than to say that the City complied with Mr. Smith’s rights and applicable law in all respects and will see this matter to conclusion if Mr. Smith chooses to appeal the Council’s decision,” the official statement read.
Inaugural Kisatchie Crusher draws crowd of runners and cyclists
The first-ever Kisatchie Crusher Gravel & Run took place Saturday morning, September 6, at Caney Lakes Park, drawing a large crowd of participants from Louisiana and surrounding states.
Runners and cyclists from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Mississippi joined locals for the event, which featured gravel bike races of 15, 30, and 60 miles, along with 5K and 10K runs. Clubs represented included the Minden Run Club, Glenbrook School’s cross country team, and Team LaS’port racing club. Vendors such as Flugers and the Adventure Provision Company were also on hand.
Heavy rain early Saturday morning gave way to cooler weather and misty views over the Kisatchie National Forest by the time the races began. Organizers said the conditions highlighted the scenic routes, which included paved roads, gravel climbs, wooded trails, and views of Caney Lake.
“We are so thankful for all the runners and cyclists for showing up and supporting us,” race director Devin Martin said following the event. “I think we accomplished our goal of showing off the park and its beautiful amenities. It was a lot of hard work for all of us volunteers, but we did it and we’re glad to do it. Tentatively planning for next year around the same time.”
According to Strava, the 60-mile gravel route covered 59.09 miles. The course included a mix of climbs, rolling hills, and long stretches of gravel.
Proceeds from the Kisatchie Crusher will go toward trail maintenance and expansion, along with the development of a youth mountain bike team.
Haughton man arrested after school shooting threat at Camp Minden
A 21-year-old Haughton man was arrested Thursday after allegedly threatening to “shoot up the school” at a campus located on the grounds of Camp Minden, authorities said.
According to investigators, an instructor at the Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College branch on the Camp Minden grounds overheard Austin Rae Stone making the threat. The instructor evacuated the building and alerted Camp Minden security and the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the scene, where Camp Minden authorities reported seizing 950 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition from Stone’s vehicle. No firearm or additional ammunition was found during a further search of the vehicle or the school building.
Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker said Stone is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center on a charge of terrorizing. His bond was set at $15,000.
Minden Lions Club marks 100 years of service
The Minden Lions Club is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, marking a century of service to the community through projects supporting eye wellness, youth recreation, and civic engagement.
The club was first organized in the fall of 1925 and received its official charter on November 12 of that year, according to Webster Parish historian John Agan in his Echoes of Our Past column, “Minden Lions Club Celebrates 75 Years,” published in the Minden Press-Herald in 2000.
The first meeting was held November 5, 1925, in the dining room of the Imperial Hotel in downtown Minden with 20 charter members in attendance. A formal Charter Night was later celebrated on December 10, 1925, with civic leaders, families, and guests from surrounding communities.
The original officers included J.E. Harper, president; R.H. Lee, vice president; J.L. McInnis, secretary-treasurer; and several directors. Members represented a cross-section of Minden’s business and professional community, from educators and attorneys to merchants and railroad workers.
From its earliest days, the Minden Lions Club was active in community service. Its first projects included teaming with the Department Club to place highway signs at entrances to Minden and supporting recreation for local youth. In 1926, the Lions took over summer operations of the City Natatorium in Wilson Park, later helping establish playground equipment there.
One of the most notable early endeavors was the Lions Boys Band, which performed in Minden’s City Park and traveled to nearby towns. The club provided uniforms and instruments, building a tradition of supporting youth activities that continues today.
The club has also been active in statewide Lions projects, including the Lions Camp for Crippled Children, and remains well known locally for fundraisers such as its semi-annual Chicken Charbroils. The group also collects eyeglasses and holds eye screenings to aid vision care efforts.
Founded in Chicago in 1917, Lions Clubs International grew quickly across the United States and abroad. By 1927, just two years after Minden received its charter, the organization had 60,000 members in more than 1,100 clubs.
Today, the Minden Lions Club continues as a vital part of civic life, carrying on its long tradition of service while celebrating a century as one of the community’s longest-standing organizations.
Jones Elementary students receive free shoes through Operation Warm
More than 300 students at J.L. Jones Elementary School received new shoes Thursday morning during a giveaway organized by Operation Warm in partnership with Diversified Energy.
The event provided over 315 pairs of shoes, along with socks, shoelaces, and small gifts for children in the school’s second and third grades. Students had their feet measured, chose their favorite color, and tried on shoes before taking home their new pair. Each child also signed a thank-you banner after completing the process.
“It is due to great partnerships like the one with Diversified Energy that we are able to provide brand-new coats, brand-new shoes, and brand-new sports bras to under-resourced children across the states and Canada,” said Jean Barnette, an organizer with Operation Warm. She added that Diversified Energy has supported the program for several years. “Because of your generosity, and because of your teammates across the county, you guys have gifted almost 13,000 coats and pairs of shoes to children.”
Diversified Energy employees volunteered alongside Operation Warm staff during the giveaway. This marks the company’s fifth year partnering with the nonprofit. Superintendent Rowland also attended the event.
Principal Friday said the day was a special one for students. “We are super excited about this experience for our kiddos,” she said. “Thank you so much for selecting our school.”
Operation Warm is a national nonprofit that partners with businesses and organizations to provide new clothing and other essentials to underserved children. Founded more than 24 years ago, the group works to connect families with community resources while promoting equitable access to basic needs.
Ava Martin crowned 2025 Webster Parish Fair Queen
The spotlight shined bright Saturday as Ava Martin of Minden was crowned the 2025 Webster Parish Fair Queen during the annual pageant held in conjunction with the parish fair.
Martin earned the title after competing against fellow high school representatives in interview, casual wear and evening gown categories. She was crowned by last year’s queen, Lily Herrick, and Anna Claire Lemoine, Miss Louisiana Volunteer 2025, and will represent the parish at fair activities throughout the week, including riding in the fair parade, handing out awards at the livestock show and appearing at community events.
Sha’Davion Martin of Doyline was named first runner-up, Addison Lee of Glenbrook placed second runner-up, and Meredith Robinson of Lakeside was third runner-up. Robinson also received the Miss Congeniality award.
Additional awards went to Kylee Rae Sanders of North Webster, who won both Casual Wear and Evening Gown. Addison Lee took home the People’s Choice award. School representatives included Paris Jackson for Lakeside and Mia Feaster for Minden High.
The pageant drew families, friends and supporters who filled the auditorium to cheer on the contestants. Organizers thanked judges, volunteers and attendees for contributing to another successful tradition.
The 2025 Webster Parish Fair runs September 30 through October 4 at the Minden Fairgrounds. The annual fair parade is set for Tuesday, September 30 at 5PM, in downtown Minden.
Johnson speaks at Sibley’s Small Town Mayors Conference
The Town of Sibley hosted the Small Town Mayors Conference for the first time September 24-25, bringing municipal leaders from across Louisiana to the Minden Civic Center to share ideas on small-town governance.
The event opened with a welcome from Sibley Mayor Robert Smart. Speakers included Barney Arceneaux, executive director of the Louisiana Municipal Association; State Rep. Wayne McMahen; and Kyle Ardoin, deputy chief of staff for the Governor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and Rural Revitalization.
Conference topics covered a range of issues facing small communities, including “Leading with the Comfort of Being Cyber Secure,” “Newly Elected Officials,” and “Trash Court.” Roundtable discussions allowed mayors to collaborate on challenges such as water and sewer systems, audits and financial reports, budgeting, insurance loss and prevention, and governing in the digital age.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and his wife, Kelly Johnson, a native of Sibley, also took part in the program Wednesday.
“We’re so blessed to be home in Northwest Louisiana where the values are the things that Kelly and I were raised on. Webster’s like my second home,” Johnson said. “This is where we feel most aligned with our values.”
Johnson opened by referencing a recent attack on Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Dallas and thanking law enforcement officers and first responders for their service.
The Speaker recalled flying with President Donald Trump on Air Force One to attend the recent memorial service for Charlie Kirk. He said the trip was Kelly Johnson’s first on Air Force One, calling the occasion both meaningful and tragic.
“The memorial was very moving,” Johnson said. “If you want to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, then what you should do is advance his principles, and you should adopt his approach.” He emphasized the importance of teaching youth about the Constitution and the nation’s founding as the 250th anniversary approaches.
Johnson spoke about the work of the current Congress, calling it one of the most productive in history. He highlighted the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which he said was designed to benefit lower- and middle-income Americans by lowering taxes, reducing government, and supporting small businesses and communities.
“A strong America is good for freedom-loving people around the world,” Johnson said.
On agricultural policy, Johnson said he was optimistic about the Farm Bill, noting some elements overlap with the broader legislation. “I’m very bullish on the Farm Bill, and I think it’ll be easier this time than it was five years ago,” he said.
Johnson also addressed rural health care, calling it one of the nation’s top concerns. He said efforts are underway to bring down pharmaceutical costs and make broader changes to the system.
Conference attendees mingled with the Johnsons before their departure. Over the course of two days, the Small Town Mayors Conference offered municipal leaders from across Louisiana a chance to exchange ideas, address common concerns, and build connections aimed at strengthening small communities.
Food Fest draws full house to support youth programs
The second annual Food Fest fundraiser filled the Minden Community House with supporters Sunday, with proceeds going to benefit local youth through 22 Hands Up.
Mayor Nick Cox praised the event’s impact, noting the turnout as he arrived. “I believe in what you all are doing here because it’s about the kids,” Cox said. “We need more of this. Thank each and every one of you for supporting this. My heart was very encouraged when I pulled up and couldn’t find a parking spot.”
The program featured a sit-down meal and musical performances by Shonora Lewis Johnson, Jeanine Franklin, and Jacquiline Lockett.
Board president Reshonda Bradford commended the work of founders Darrell and Sandra Hampton. “We’re so excited to serve alongside Darrell and Sandra as they venture into this project of exposing local youth to real-life experience,” Bradford said.
Executive Director Darrell Hampton emphasized the mission of 22 Hands Up. “We want to invest in the future, and there’s no better way to invest than in our youth,” Hampton said.
22 Hands Up is a nonprofit organization that provides education, employment, and empowerment opportunities for young people. Its programs are designed to encourage responsibility, strong interpersonal skills, and a positive path toward adulthood.
Minden Main Street outlines downtown projects, survey push
The City of Minden’s Main Street program highlighted ongoing improvements and upcoming initiatives during a merchant meeting Monday, September 22, at City Hall.
Sarah Overall, Main Street and Economic Development Director, said the program continues to follow its four-point approach of design, promotion, organization and economic vitality. She emphasized the importance of community feedback as part of the current assessment and urged more residents to complete the Main Street survey.
“We had a great response to this survey. We need more of the community’s voice to be heard though,” Overall said. “This will help us build out a plan that the community actually wants.”
The survey, available in English and Spanish, is open to all residents, with a special request for responses from those under 24, over 65 and from the African American community.
During the meeting, Overall reported that downtown parking lots owned by the city have been re-paved and additional spaces added. She reminded merchants that the city can only re-pave city-owned property. “Most of our roads and highways in Minden are state owned, and we can’t re-pave those,” she said.
Overall asked merchants and their employees to leave downtown parallel parking available for visitors and to monitor their speed when driving through the Historic District. “The Historic District is busier now than it has been in probably five years. There are a lot more pedestrians, and I am fearful that somebody might get hurt,” she said.
The city is working with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development on possible crosswalks for Broadway and Main streets, both state-owned roads. Officials are also considering the purchase of a speed tracking device.
The next Main Street merchant meeting will be held in January.