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 features stories from January and February, and tomorrow’s edition will continue from there.
Sophia Kaye becomes first baby born in MMC on New Year’s Day
Sophia Kaye was the first baby born in Webster Parish. Sophia was born at Minden Medical Center on New Year’s Day at 11:06 PM weighing 5 lbs and 4 ounces to parents Shayna Neal and Jason Watson from Springhill.
Speaker Johnson reelected as Speaker of the House
On the first day of the 119th Congress, the U.S. House of Representatives reelected Speaker Mike Johnson on the first ballot, securing his position as the 56th Speaker of the House.
Following the vote, Speaker Johnson addressed the chamber, highlighting a shift in the political climate and outlining priorities for the new Congress.
“But in recent months, we have witnessed something happening, something that’s really remarkable. A political moment in modern history. A groundswell of Americans from every state, race, and religion who now demand that we put the interests of Americans first again. And we will,” Johnson said.
He emphasized the need to reject past policies, stating, “This is a powerful new coalition of our country, it’s a coalition that insists that we purge the policies of ‘America last’ and we bury them in the graveyard of history’s mistakes. To that end, this Congress will renounce the status quo, and we will listen to the voices of the people. We will act quickly, and we will start by defending our nation’s borders. That’s the number one priority.”
Johnson’s reelection marks the continuation of his leadership as he seeks to address key legislative goals in the 119th Congress.
Six injured in Dubberly bonfire shooting, investigation underway
Six people were injured, two critically, after gunfire erupted late Saturday at a large gathering in a rural area of Webster Parish. The event, billed as “#BigBlessed Littest Bonfire Pt. 3,” was held on private property in the 5100 block of LA Highway 531 and drew hundreds of attendees.
Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker described the scene as chaotic and unregulated. “What we have is a very large crime scene with hundreds of people involved, and we’re still investigating,” Parker said.
Deputies responded to reports of gunfire before midnight Saturday, only to find a massive crowd still partying despite the shootings. The sheriff’s office was unaware of the event, which appears to have been unpermitted, according to Parker.
“Our office knew nothing about this event in advance,” Parker said. “We first learned this bonfire was posted on social media late Saturday. We’re not aware of a request for a permit at this time, but we’re checking on that.”
The event’s promotional materials advertised live performances, a DJ, free food and drinks, and a $15 entry fee. Security was purportedly “strictly enforced,” but Parker said no licensed security was present. Instead, a woman collecting entry fees and distributing armbands managed the crowd. “She started with around 350 armbands,” Parker said, noting that several hundred people were at the scene.
When deputies arrived, they faced significant obstacles. “We couldn’t even get in there,” Parker said. “The deputies had to park on Highway 531 and walk at least a quarter mile to the scene because there was so much traffic.”
Despite the gunshots, attendees continued the party as deputies navigated through blocked roads and a chaotic scene.
“The road was blocked. We could not have gotten an ambulance down in there if people had needed to be transported,” Parker said. “This is why the police jury passed the ordinance about permits for large gatherings. We want to provide safety for the citizens. We want everybody to have a good time, but we also want to maintain peace and harmony.”
Parker said investigators are conducting interviews to determine what led to the shooting. “We’re still investigating; we’re not going to leave any stone unturned until we bring some justice to those who were injured,” he said.
The investigation will also focus on the lack of a permit for the event. Permits for gatherings exceeding 200 people can be obtained through the Webster Parish Police Jury. “We want to help educate people so they realize that all it would’ve taken is a deputy parked at the end of the road, making sure everyone was coming through safely, and this problem may never have happened,” Parker said.
The property owner who hosted the event may face legal consequences. “The property owner that put on this event is liable,” Parker said. “All six of those folks who were injured on that property at that event they hosted can civilly sue. And I don’t think they [the organizers] realize that.”
Parker urged anyone with information about the shootings to contact his office. “We want to maintain order in the parish, and we have ordinances in place to help prevent these things from happening,” he said. “We don’t know the reasons for the shootings yet, but this is what can happen when you have a combination of large uncontrolled crowds, music, and alcohol plus little or no security.”
Nilah Pollard crowned Miss Minden 2025
Nilah Pollard was crowned Miss Minden, Jolie Ortego was named Miss Spirit of Fasching, and Landry Edwards earned the title of Miss Outstanding Teen during the Miss Minden Scholarship Competition held January 18 at the Minden High School auditorium. The event, hosted by the Young Women’s Service Club (YWSC), was emceed by Miss Louisiana 2024, Olivia Grace George.
“The title of Miss Minden is not only a great honor but also a great responsibility. A year as Miss Minden carries with it opportunities to represent the community, meet new people and, the highest goal of our organization, pursue higher education,” said George during the event.
Six contestants vied for the titles of Miss Minden and Miss Spirit of Fasching, while four competed for Miss Outstanding Teen.
Mayor Nick Cox opened the evening by presenting keys to the city to Miss Louisiana Olivia Grace George, outgoing Miss Minden Maison Wilbanks, and outgoing Miss Spirit of Fasching Hannah Reeder. Izzy Gray, the outgoing Miss Outstanding Teen, received recognition from YWSC President Gillian Davis.
The competition included pre-event interviews, audience Q&A sessions, and segments for Health and Fitness, talent, and evening gown presentations.
In the Teen division, Kynzie Smith was named Miss Congeniality, an award determined by her peers. Landry Edwards won the Hannah McFarland Style Award for evening gown excellence, while Aynslea Maus received the talent award.
In the Miss division, Grace Powell was awarded Miss Congeniality, Nilah Pollard earned the Hannah McFarland Style Award, and Powell also secured the talent award.
Pollard, crowned Miss Minden 2025, will receive a $2,000 scholarship. Ortego, crowned Miss Spirit of Fasching 2025, will be awarded a $250 scholarship, and Edwards, named Miss Outstanding Teen 2025, will receive a $1,000 scholarship.
The YWSC expressed gratitude to event sponsors and the community for supporting the annual scholarship competition.
Minden welcomes Molly Fowler as new airport manager
The City of Minden has officially named Molly Fowler, the former interim airport manager, as its official airport manager, marking a new chapter for the city and the Minden Airport. With a five-year career in aviation and a recent degree in Aviation Management earned in the fall of 2024, Fowler brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the airport’s future.
“The airport’s top priorities for 2025 are continuing growth and development, increasing traffic, and supporting tourism to Minden,” said Fowler. Her plans align with the city’s broader goals of bolstering economic activity and solidifying Minden Airport’s role as a vital community hub.
One of Fowler’s first major initiatives is the construction of two new box hangars at the airport. “These hangars will be a great addition to our growing airport and allow us to house more aircraft,” she said. The project aims to increase the amount of available space for the airport to house aircrafts, further bolstering the economic impact the airport will have.
Beyond infrastructure, the airport is also looking to continue to engage with the local community. “We plan to host our annual Fly-In and Car Show this fall. This is one of my favorite airport events. It is a great way to get our community together and learn about our airport,” she shared. The event is expected to draw aviation enthusiasts and local residents alike, fostering a deeper connection between the airport and the community it serves.
Fowler’s appointment comes at a time of growth and opportunity for the Minden Airport. Her leadership promises to enhance its development while strengthening its role as a gateway for tourism and business in the region.
Reflecting on 50 Years of the Minden St. Jude Auction
The Minden St. Jude Auction has been a cornerstone of generosity and community spirit for half a century. Beginning as a humble, one-day radiothon in 1976, the event has grown into a multi-day spectacle broadcast on radio, television, and the internet. What started with modest ambitions has evolved into a powerhouse of fundraising, raising millions of dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As the auction celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s worth revisiting the incredible journey that has made it a cherished tradition.
The origins of the auction trace back to 1976, when Pete and Pam Treat, along with KASO Radio, Digger O’Dell Bo Cook, and a group of friends and family, organized the first event. “Anne Treat, the daughter of Peter and Pam Treat was diagnosed with leukemia and was treated at St. Jude’s in Memphis. Sadly she passed away in 1977. However, her father, because he felt he owed so much back to the hospital, began the Minden Auction in 1976,” said Melissa Brown, one of the event’s organizers. Their heartfelt efforts raised $10,000 in the first year, a sum that exceeded their expectations.
Throughout the 1970s, the auction maintained its format as a radio-driven event. The 1980s, however, marked a pivotal shift with the advent of television broadcasting. “The 80s brought us into the world of cable and multi-channels on our television sets,” said Brown. “We began to broadcast over the local cable channel, expanded to multiple days, and incorporated raffles. Everything was still done on paper at this point.”
The 1990s ushered in the computer age, revolutionizing how the auction operated. Thanks to Kenneth Greer’s programming expertise, a database and software system were developed to streamline operations. The event also grew to three days, incorporating chili cook offs and other activities to engage the community further.
The turn of the century brought even more advancements. Live audio and video streaming allowed the auction to reach a global audience, while the introduction of a dedicated website and computerized phone systems transformed its logistical backbone. “We had gone from mountains of paper to a minuscule amount,” Brown explained. Sponsorships and t-shirt sales added new revenue streams, with t-shirt sales alone bringing in $40,000 to $50,000 annually.
The auction’s impact has been staggering. In 2024, it raised a record $2,538,444, cementing Minden’s status as the largest per capita donor to St. Jude. Over 50 years, the auction has contributed more than $30 million to the hospital. Schools in the parish have played a significant role, collectively raising over $200,000 in recent years. Laura Hollingsworth, another of the event’s key organizers, noted the enthusiasm of younger generations: “We have some 3rd generation volunteers bringing in their dollars to support the auction. Our area takes great pride in the continued success of MSJ.”
The ultimate goal of the Minden St. Jude Auction, however, is to render itself unnecessary. As Hollingsworth eloquently put it, “We work toward the day that childhood cancer can be cured and St. Jude can close its doors forever.” Until then, the Minden community remains steadfast in its commitment to Danny Thomas’ dream: ensuring no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Here’s to another 50 years of hope, generosity, and making a difference.
Scarlett O’Glee crowned 2025 Apache Princess
Scarlett O’Glee was named the 2025 Apache Princess for Glenbrook School during a ceremony at the Minden Civic Center on February 1. Mr. Chris Scroggs emceed the event, which featured a sportswear attire competition, an evening gown competition, and various musical and dance performances.
The evening began with the Parade of Contestants, followed by the introduction of Visiting Queens. Between the sportswear and evening gown competitions, the contestants’ escorts were introduced.
Aynslea Maus was awarded first runner-up, while Amelia Lott earned both second runner-up and the title of Miss Congeniality, an award selected by the contestants. Kynzie Smith was named third runner-up.
The Apache Princess pageant is a time-honored tradition at Glenbrook School, celebrating grace, poise, and school spirit.
Minden City Council approves landmark energy agreement with LEPA, ushering in new era for local utilities
A new era for the city began during the February Minden City Council meeting, where the council unanimously agreed to enter into a series of agreements that would allow Minden to start receiving wholesale power and energy from the Louisiana Energy and Power Authority.
They had been prevented from making this move earlier due to state laws that set minimum time requirements for local municipalities before entering into agreements for utilities.
“There is a state statute that says a municipality is prevented from entering into a contract with a private entity for the purchase of utilities for a term greater than fifteen years. Our utility contract is in its sixteenth year, so it’s time for us to find another source,” said Mayor Nick Cox.
“I presented y’all with what I believe to be the best alternative, which is LEPA. After many, many attorneys, consultants, accountants, and a lot of hours of work, I recommend these three agreements presented to you tonight from LEPA.”
During council comments, Councilman Andy Pendergrass of District E expressed his thanks to everyone who brought the agreement to fruition.
“I just wanted to thank everybody who had a part in item number six tonight,” said Pendergrass. “It’s been a lot of work. It’s every bit as big of a deal as it seems, and we’ll release more information soon on just how significant it is.”
Councilman Buddy Myles of District A also expressed his appreciation, noting it as an example of how a unified city can bring real, meaningful change and how this is just the beginning.
“What you just witnessed was the sheer will and desire for something better for our community and doing right by the people. This achievement is a collective effort, not just from the council and the mayor, but also from public works, lawyers, consultants, and many others,” said Myles.
“This type of commitment and unity is long overdue in our town, and what better way to bring us together than something that affects everybody? Not just one side of town—everybody was affected by this. If nothing else, this should show you the power of unity and striving for what’s right for our constituents. Let this be a reminder to each and every one of you that when we stand together, there is no challenge too great and no goal too ambitious. This is just the beginning of what we plan to do. We will continue to work side by side to build a stronger, more prosperous community for everyone in the future, and we thank y’all for your support.”
Thank you for being a $2.3 million friend
The Minden St. Jude Auction raised a total of $2,320,036 this past week, continuing its legacy of community-driven philanthropy. On top of this monumental achievement, the auction was also celebrating its 50th anniversary.
“We’re celebrating our fiftieth auction. We have some special things to look back on, we’ve had some special things to look forward to, and we just want to say thank you for being a friend to the Minden St. Jude Auction. It’s been awesome,” said Laura Hollingsworth.
The Minden St. Jude Auction began in 1976 as a one-day radiothon, founded by Pete and Pam Treat alongside KASO Radio and community members. Their daughter, Anne Treat, was treated at St. Jude before her passing in 1977, inspiring the family to give back. The first auction raised $10,000, surpassing expectations.
Throughout the decades, the auction evolved from radio to television broadcasting, expanded to multiple days, and incorporated raffles. The 1990s saw the introduction of computer systems, streamlining operations, and adding events like chili cook-offs. The 2000s brought live streaming, allowing the auction to reach a global audience.
“The beauty of this thing for 50 years, some people can give money, some can give time, some can give talent, and some can give all, but every person in this community wants to participate and wants to help in some fashion,” said Mike Harper. “It’s incredible the moving parts that come together for the sum of the total effort because everybody is critical. If one cog breaks down in one of these areas, it stops the auction. It’s a remarkable experience and I’m proud to be part of it and thank you for letting me do that this year.”
The event featured the Minden Run for St. Jude, kicking off Saturday morning with clear skies and warm temperatures. A mix-up in the 5K route resulted in runners covering 4.2 miles instead of the intended 3.1 miles, yet participants persevered. The winners of the mismeasured 5K were Nathan Vogel of Campti in first place, Luke Stanford of Minden in second, and Spencer Smith of Ruston in third. Kevin Vines of Shreveport won the 10K race, followed by Trent Clemons of Minden and Jason Engle of Haughton. In the Kid’s Fun Run, a half-mile race, the top three finishers all came from the 9-year-old boys division. A. Ramsey of Minden took first place, followed by B. Marks of Haughton in second and E. Harmon of Minden in third.
The Minden St. Jude Chili Cook-off set a new record with 36 teams competing and raising $14,139 — surpassing their goal by $4,000. “That’s $4,000 over our goal and the most we’ve ever raised,” said Randy Stevenson. Cast Iron Chili took first place in Best in Show, Chili of the Ages claimed the top spot for People’s Choice, and the overall 2025 Chili Champ title went to Chili Man Chili Man.
Minden native and PGA professional Blake Thomas hosted a three-day golf fundraiser, “Swing for a Cure,” at Minden Presbyterian Church. Thomas offered private golf lessons, with proceeds supporting the auction.
Some of the big ticket raffles including the Partner In Hope went to Ashley Buffington, Alice Fanning, and Jessica McCain. The Grand Prize raffle winner was Mark Brown. The winner of the playhouse raffle was Erin Ramsey.
Near the end of the auction, co-chair Mellisa Brown shared some memories of her time with the event. “I just think back on all the years that Laura and I have been here. I think of all the friends we’ve made and friends that aren’t here with us and the ones far and the patients that aren’t here with us and the ones that are success stories,” said Brown.
“It’s true. Every person, every family in our community has played a part in one form or fashion to the success of this auction. Hopefully, we won’t be doing this for another fifty years, we won’t have to. But until that day, we’ll work like we did this weekend to reach that goal.”
WPSB recognizes first graduate of Reach University program
The Webster Parish School Board (WPSB) recognized Nina Willis as the first graduate from the district to complete a degree through Reach University during its regular meeting on February 3.
“Webster Parish has partnered with Reach University to help paras become teachers,” said Dr. Wilson, WPSB personnel director. “This is a grow-your-own program here in Webster Parish. We have 14 paras who are working on their bachelor’s degrees through Reach University.”
Webster Parish funds the monthly tuition for participants, who earn credit for their classroom work while completing coursework and observations.
“We are using this as a major recruitment tool, and I’m so proud of what’s happening,” Wilson said. “We’re going to be doing a bigger push to help our bus drivers, substitutes, and secretaries who are interested in getting their bachelor’s degrees. Because they work for Webster Parish, we can help them.”
Willis, a longtime paraprofessional with WPSB, most recently worked at Phillips Elementary before earning her bachelor’s degree in liberal arts last May.
“Immediately, Mr. Lee, the principal of Central Elementary, said, ‘I want her. I know what she can do,’” Wilson said.
Central Elementary Principal Lee praised Willis’ experience and dedication.
“Paras are often the unsung heroes, especially when it comes to special education. Even though they don’t have the degree, they’re doing the work,” Lee said. “I knew Ms. Willis by reputation. I knew she had a lot of experience. We’ve been very pleased with her at Central. She’s been an outstanding teacher, and she has a great future ahead of her.”
Webster Parish deputy honored for saving choking inmate
A Webster Parish corrections officer was recognized for his quick action in saving an inmate who was choking during a meal at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.
Deputy David Dick was stationed at the entrance of the facility’s dining area on January 31 when he noticed an inmate suddenly stand up in apparent distress. Upon approaching, Dick realized the inmate was choking, with his lips beginning to turn blue.
Dick immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver, a technique used to dislodge airway obstructions. On the second attempt, the blockage—a piece of hot dog—was expelled, allowing the inmate to breathe normally again.
Dick credited prior training, including CPR instruction from the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office, for preparing him to respond effectively. He is also set to begin Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) classes for further training.
In recognition of his life-saving efforts, Sheriff Jason Parker presented Dick with a Life Saving Award on February 10. The plaque commended Dick’s “outstanding performance in the saving of a human life” and his “conspicuous initiative, capability, and attention to duty.”
Sheriff Parker emphasized that the deputy’s actions reflect the mission of the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.
“We take an oath to serve the people of Webster Parish and to do our best to ensure their safety. That extends also to the people in our custody,” Parker said.
Seeds Women’s Center embarks on exciting new chapter
Seeds Women’s Center has officially moved into its new location at 308 Pine Street, marking a major milestone in its mission to support local families with free pregnancy and family services.
Reflecting on her first week as executive director, Amber Bradford shared, “I recall envisioning a future where we could expand our services and reach even more families. Today, that vision becomes a reality as we officially move into our new, larger facility.”
The move allows for significant service expansions, including in-person mom classes, on-site dad classes, and greater opportunities for volunteers to participate. These enhancements will enable the center to make an even greater impact in the community.
Seeds Women’s Center will welcome its first ultrasound appointment at the new location on Monday, March 3, with a grand opening celebration to follow soon after.
Bradford emphasized the center’s continued commitment to holistic care. “Sometimes the first need isn’t pregnancy. It’s housing, food, or transportation,” she said. “We’re here, and we love you. There are other ways to get love. And God loves you.”
With its proximity to the Department of Children and Family Services, the center is positioned as a key referral resource. The move was supported by community donations, including curtains, lockers, and a kitchen table, with youth groups assisting in the transition.
Seeds Women’s Center invites local churches, groups, and organizations to schedule a private tour of the new facility. Those interested can contact Amber Bradford at 318-518-4146 to arrange a visit.
The center is still actively seeking donations to support its expanded services. Contributions are tax-deductible, and starting in 2025, donors may be eligible for a 50% tax credit. Options for giving include monthly partnerships, planned donations, and in-kind gifts.
For more information on services or to contribute, visit seedswomenscenter.com.
Minden Mayor Nick Cox advocates for city projects during Washington D.C.
Minden Mayor Nick Cox along with Councilmen Buddy Myles, Michael Roy, and Andy Pendergrass recently traveled to Washington D.C. with a clear mission: to raise awareness about the City of Minden’s key projects and to garner federal support for them. During their visit, they engaged with many federal agencies, including the Department of Transportation, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Economic Development Administration, Delta Regional Authority, and Department of Housing and Urban Development to pitch their projects for Minden. They also met with representatives from the offices of Speaker Mike Johnson, Senator John Kennedy, and Senator Bill Cassidy.
The primary goal of the trip was to advocate for funding and support for several vital infrastructure projects:
Miller Quarters Water Trunk Replacement Project – Seeking nearly $2.5 million to replace a century-old water main that connects downtown Minden’s elevated water tank to the city’s water treatment plant. The project will enhance the city’s water distribution network, supporting over 11,000 residents and nearly 400 businesses.
Main Street Water Trunk Replacement Project – Requesting more than $1.96 million to upgrade a critical water main, improving resiliency in the water distribution system.
Lewisville Road to Methodist Camp Connector Project – A $6.4 million investment to construct a new road, enhancing airport accessibility and reducing traffic congestion near Glenbrook School.
Sheppard Street Multimodal Transportation Project – Seeking approximately $343,000 for a new sidewalk to improve pedestrian safety and connectivity in a low-income residential area.
Robertson Lift Station Replacement Project – A $1.15 million initiative to replace an aging lift station, ensuring reliable wastewater management.
Water Quality Cleanup and Resilience Project – Louisiana Tech University and Sparta Foundation Inc. are leading a $16.6 million project to combat environmental contamination affecting the Sparta Aquifer, a crucial water source for Northern Louisiana.
The team traveled to D.C. as part of Louisiana takeover week. “Because it was Louisiana takeover week, there were little breakout groups all over the Hilton Hotel, where suites would be rented and people from different Louisiana cities and regions,” said Cox. He stressed the importance of these networking opportunities, stating, “We met with a lot of people. I’m just telling you that a lot of people maybe wouldn’t get the value of it, but there’s no price tag you can put on networking. That’s how the cookie crumbles. That’s how the eggs are scrambled.”
Something else Cox emphasized was the significance of Speaker Mike Johnson’s familiarity with Minden. “When in our history as a city has the Speaker of the House known the mayor’s name?” Cox remarked “The number three and the free world knows the City of Minden and knows a good bit of the people too. What an opportunity. If there’s ever been a time that Minden needs to find its way in DC, it’s now.”
Mayor Cox’s trip to Washington D.C. was not just about meetings and presentations; it was also about making meaningful connections. During a meeting with the Economic Development Administration, Cox was surprised to discover a unique link to Minden. “My name is Angela Ewell Madison, and my grandfather was John Ewell. Ewell Park was named after my grandfather. I spent every summer growing up at my grandparent’s house in Minden,” Cox recalled her saying. “That was a pretty neat experience.”
Reflecting on the value of the connections made, Cox shared, “I was in the airplane flying over all these cities and towns on the way home and it got me thinking. All these towns and cities and these federal agencies took time for Minden and made us feel like we were important, cared about our needs, and helped us make connections. It’s humbling.”
Mayor Cox also learned valuable insights about navigating the complex federal funding landscape. “So the way it works up there is like you may meet with 12 federal departments. All 12 of them have funding, and all 12 of them might want to fund your project or they might not,” Cox explained. He emphasized the importance of persistence and strategic planning, saying, “You can pitch the same projects to 12 different agencies and there are layers under those agencies. There are like 490 federal departments right now. There’s a ton of them. So you identify what projects you have and try to find a federal agency that could help you.”
One key takeaway was the concept of the “capital stack,” which involves securing partial funding from one agency before approaching others to complete the financial package. “Probably the best thing that I learned, the whole trip as far as from a very practical standpoint, was a term that I had never really thought about. They really like it when you get like half of your project funded by one agency, and then you go to the other agency and layer your project. They call it the capital stack,” said Cox.
Mayor Cox understands that success in Washington D.C. is not instant but rather the result of patience and persistence. “In this situation, you plant seeds, you let them sit there and germinate, then you get some sprouts, then you might get a plant. Then if it’s good and it really grows, you might get a fruit. That’s kind of how this is. It’s not like we went down there and brought back pocketfuls of cash. It takes a long time for these things to materialize, but we planted the seeds and we’re going to try and get these trees to grow,” said Cox.
Reflecting on the overall impact of the visit, Cox concluded, “I can tell you, from Baton Rouge to Washington, DC, people are more and more knowing that Minden Louisiana exists. That’s half the battle. I can guarantee you who doesn’t get anything, the ones that never show up.”
Mayor Cox’s proactive approach and strategic networking efforts have laid a solid foundation for Minden’s growth and development. His visit to Washington D.C. has not only put Minden on the map but also opened doors to potential funding opportunities and strengthened the city’s connections with key federal agencies and lawmakers. As the city moves forward with its ambitious infrastructure projects, Mayor Cox remains optimistic about Minden’s future and its place on the national stage.