Highlights from stories 6-10 of the top ten
As 2017 wraps up this week, the Minden Press-Herald is taking a look back at the top 10 stories of the past year.
Factors such as impact on the community, web traffic, and community response were considered when compiling this list.
“As the chroniclers of our community’s history, we have an obligation to present all the news that takes place,” said Editor and Publisher David Specht. “This list reflects that.”
The list will be publisher over the next two issues, beginning with stories 10 through 6.
10. Gov. Edwards Speaks at
Chamber Gala
A record crowd of more than 500 was treated to good food, good fun and a sense of good community spirit.
The setting was the Minden Civic Center and the scene was the 75th annual Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce membership banquet.
Accompanied by an address from keynote speaker Gov. John Bel Edwards and the keen insights of master of ceremonies Ken Warren, outgoing Chamber Chair Jeff Lee, incoming Chamber Chair Jennifer Spurlock and new Chamber President Stephanie Barnette, attendees enjoyed a fine dinner provided by Jimmy Hall’s Grace Estate and dessert by Jodie Martin’s Geaux Fresh in the elegantly decorated event hall.
9. School Board names Rowland
Superintendent
Rowland
Johnny Rowland Jr. was named Webster Parish Superintendent of Schools, and he became emotional, sharing some thoughts with the board and the public.
Rowland said he was humbled by the board’s decision and understands the school board is putting a great deal of trust into the job he hopes to do.
“I consider it an honor and privilege to serve our wonderful students and employees in this new capacity,” he said.
“I am proud to call Webster Parish my home and I am equally proud to be a product and long-standing employee of the Webster Parish school system. I look forward to working with all employees and board members as we strive to maintain fiscal responsibility, pursue significant gains in student achievement, and improve culture and climate within our district and more specifically within our schools.”
8. Convention and Visitors Bureau pays former executive director $35K
The Webster Parish Convention and Visitors’ Bureau paid over $37,000 to settle a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by former executive director Lynn Dorsey. The reason for the payout is “settlement funds for dismissal of lawsuit and end litigation.”
7. Tyrone Sumlin Murdered
Minden police are investigating the death of then 35-year-old Tyrone Sumlin. His body was found by his girlfriend just after outside of his vehicle at their home on Quarles Street.
Cropper said Sumlin had a wound to the back of the head and investigators weren’t initially sure if was shot or if he suffered from blunt force trauma because there was no visible exit wound.
The Webster Parish Coroner pronounced him dead at the scene.
Anyone with information on Sumlin’s death is asked to call the Minden Police Department at 318-371-4226.
6. The Pit Reopens
More than 18 months after being condemned, the Minden Crimson Tide came home to a full house at W.W. Williams Stadium, best known as The Pit, beating Huntington 21-14 to cap a night of football and fellowship in the community.
The MHS Booster Club tailgate was the place to be for pre-game festivities as hundreds packed Ash Street to share Minden football stories and feast on Jambalaya from Hugh Wood’s Catering.