The City of Minden is hosting a patriotic celebration “America’s 250th & Minden’s 190th” June 12-13. The event will feature live music, family activities, food vendors, competitions, fireworks and community events honoring both America’s 250th birthday and the City of Minden’s 190th anniversary. Highlights include Run Minden on Main 5K, a duck derby, block parties, parades and a fireworks finale. June 12 activities are from 6-9pm and June 13 the run begins at 8am followed by multiple events throughout the day with the fireworks display at 9pm.Organizers invite families and visitors from across the area to come enjoy the celebration and community spirit throughout the weekend.

First Methodist Church Coushatta is inviting the community to a Spiritual Gifts Workshop on Tues June 16 at 5:30pm. The event will be held at the church, located at 2018 Front Street in Coushatta. Participants will learn about spiritual gifts found in Scripture, receive guidance in identifying their own gifts, and enjoy fellowship with others. Organizers say the workshop is designed to help believers better understand how God equips each person to serve and encourage others. A red beans and rice dinner will also be provided. The event is open to all, and additional information is available by contacting Pastor Trevor Blair at (318) 780-0433.

Fairview Baptist Church is hosting a fun-filled Build & Create Night June 19 from 5:30-8:00pm. Kids will have the chance to build, paint, craft, and explore through hands-on activities and woodworking stations.

New Life Church will host a Kids & Youth Night on July 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at New Life Church, located at 5047 Duke Avenue in Hall Summit. The event is open to children and youth ages 4 years old through 12th grade and will feature fellowship, Bible lessons, activities, and opportunities for spiritual growth. At the same time, adults are invited to attend a Bible study led by Bro. Collin in the sanctuary. Families are encouraged to attend together and bring friends for an evening of faith, learning, and fellowship.

Martin Baptist Church will host its 5th Annual Basketball Camp July 12-14 for students who have completed Pre-K4 through 7th grade. The camp will be held each evening from 5:30 to 7:30pm, with drop-off beginning at 5:15pm. Participants will have the opportunity to develop basketball fundamentals, build teamwork skills, and enjoy a positive environment. Free snacks and drinks will be provided each day. All children must have a completed waiver on file to attend. For additional information, contact Dan Dupree at (318) 464-5303.

Area educators are invited to take advantage of a special Teacher Resource Day at Mansfield State Historic Site on July 15 and July 22 at 10am. The program is designed to help teachers discover ways to incorporate local history, social studies, and science resources into their classrooms. Participants will learn about available educational materials, lesson opportunities, tours, and hands-on activities that can enhance student learning. Admission fees will be waived for teachers who present a current school identification badge. Organizers encourage educators to attend and explore resources that can bring classroom lessons to life while connecting students to local history and science.

Louisiana Carrot Initiative is now available at Walmart stores statewide. SNAP recipients can earn bonus benefits for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at Walmart and Walmart Neighborhood Market locations across Louisiana.

Southern Baptists vote to remove and ban churches that have women pastors.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill shared that the Biden administration’s 2024 Title IX rule is no longer moving forward after legal challenges from Louisiana and other states. Murrill said Louisiana was the first state to challenge the rule, arguing it would change Title IX protections for schools. She called the outcome a victory for women and girls, stating that Louisiana fought to preserve the protections originally guaranteed under Title IX.

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