This week, two significant moments in Minden remind us of what makes our community truly special. These moments are a testament to the incredible people, businesses, and organizations that continue to drive Minden forward, and it’s an honor to witness them firsthand.
The first proud moment comes with the publishing of Profile 2025, featured in this edition of the Minden Press-Herald. This annual special edition takes a deep dive into the accomplishments, growth, and milestones of our community, showcasing the stories of Minden that often go unrecognized. It highlights the heart and soul of our town—the individuals and organizations who make Minden a place of pride.
I’m incredibly proud of our team for putting together an edition that captures the essence of Minden’s journey. As our editor, Joshua Specht, pointed out, our commitment to being a reliable news source for Webster Parish extends beyond just print. With Profile 2025, we’ve ensured that our community’s achievements are available to readers both in print and online, making sure everyone can access and celebrate the people and stories that shape Minden.
The stories inside Profile 2025 will resonate with everyone who calls Minden home. From local business owners to community leaders, this edition underscores our shared values and collective spirit. We invite you to dive into these pages, reflect on how far we’ve come, and take pride in the accomplishments we’ve made together.
The second proud moment arrives just around the corner—on Thursday, February 27, 2025—when the Greater Minden Chamber of Commerce hosts its 83rd Annual Awards Gala at the Minden Civic Center. This year’s theme, Let the Good Times Roll, celebrates the businesses, organizations, and individuals who are making an impact on our community. It’s an evening to honor those who go above and beyond to help our area thrive.
The evening promises to be filled with excitement and anticipation as we await the announcement of winners in categories such as Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, and Community Partner of the Year. The finalists for Business Person of the Year also represent the caliber of leaders who help shape our economy and community:
Business of the Year: Clement Industries, Inc., Harper Chevrolet GMC, and Interstate Building Materials.
Small Business of the Year: Brick Street Coffee, Minden Athletic Supply, and Minden Family Pharmacy.
Community Partner of the Year: Living Word Minden, Pearls of Purpose, and Webster Parish Council on Aging.
Business Person of the Year: Kathryn Cropper, Mandi Hart, and Sara McDaniel.
These finalists represent the best of Minden—a community that thrives through hard work, dedication, and innovation. Their efforts are not only transforming local business landscapes but also ensuring that Minden continues to grow and prosper. I encourage everyone to be part of this exciting event and to support these outstanding individuals and businesses.
As we celebrate these two moments—one reflecting on our past and the other looking ahead to future successes—let’s not forget the power of relationships and community. Minden’s strength lies in its people, its businesses, and its unbreakable sense of unity. We are all in this together, and each of us plays a vital role in shaping the future.
Let’s continue to support and uplift each other as we enter the next chapter of our community’s story. Whether it’s celebrating a successful year or honoring the leaders who are making a difference, these moments help us realize that Minden is a community worth investing in—one that continues to grow, innovate, and lead by example.
As we celebrate these milestones, let’s keep the momentum going. Thank you to everyone who contributes to the success of Minden, whether it’s through your business, volunteer work, or simply being a part of this vibrant community. We look forward to seeing even more success in 2025, and beyond. Let’s continue to let the good times roll!
David Specht is president of Specht Newspapers, Inc., Publisher of the Minden Press-Herald, Bossier Press-Tribune, and BIZ Magazine.