This week marks a significant milestone for our community—Minden’s beloved St. Jude Auction is celebrating its 50th year! For five decades, this annual event has united us all in a shared mission: raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This is a time when we come together, as neighbors, friends, and family, to make a tangible difference in the lives of children battling life-threatening diseases like cancer.
The theme for this year’s auction is “Thank You For Being a Friend,” inspired by the theme song from The Golden Girls. It’s a perfect reflection of what this auction has always been about—the power of friendship and the strength of community. Over the years, this event has served as a reminder of just how much we can achieve when we unite for a cause bigger than ourselves.
As the auction kicks off this Thursday, I encourage all of you to participate. Whether you’re a seasoned bidder or a first-time participant, there’s always a way to get involved. From bidding on unique items, purchasing raffle tickets, to making donations, every contribution counts. The money raised during this auction will continue to fund life-saving research, treatment, and support for families at St. Jude. The beauty of this event is that 100% of the funds raised directly benefit the children, ensuring that no family pays for their child’s treatment.
What makes the St. Jude Auction so special is not just the generosity of those donating and bidding, but the spirit of community that surrounds it. This event is a shining example of what Minden is all about—compassion, generosity, and the willingness to come together to make a difference.
As we celebrate this 50th year, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on all we’ve accomplished together as a community, while also looking forward to the work that remains. There are still children who need our help, and every dollar raised brings us one step closer to finding cures and giving hope to these families.
For those who aren’t able to attend in person, don’t worry—you can still be a part of the event. The Minden St. Jude Auction will be broadcast/streamed live on local cable television Channel 11, KASO/KBEF Radio and YouTube. Tune in to see the excitement unfold and contribute to this important cause from the comfort of your own home.
I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported the auction over the years, and to encourage those of you who are participating this year to bring your enthusiasm and generosity to make this event a success. Whether you’re bidding, donating, or simply spreading the word, you’re part of something much bigger than yourself.
So, as we celebrate 50 years of making a difference, let’s continue to show the world the incredible strength and compassion of Minden. Together, we can make this year’s St. Jude Auction one to remember, and continue to offer hope and support to children in need.
Thank you for being a part of this community. Let’s make this year’s auction the best one yet!
David Specht is president of Specht Newspapers, Inc., Publisher of the Minden Press-Herald, Bossier Press-Tribune, and BIZ Magazine.