Cultural Crossroads of Minden

2,000 King Alfred Bulbs Planted at Farm!

2012-01-17T16:48:00.002-06:00

Volunteers planted 2,000 King Alfred bulbs at the Farm in honor of Martin Luther King. Pictured LtoR Destiny Austin, Marjorie Bailey, Molly Bailey, Henry Culpepper, Jedidiah Walker and Logan Bailey. Not pictured Chris Broussard.

R.I.P. Moon Over Minden 2011

2011-10-31T17:19:00.001-05:00

No Moon Over Minden at The Farm

2011-10-07T12:17:00.003-05:00

The ghost of Sallie Baker will be taking a break this year while Moon Over Minden at the Farm has been cancelled. According to the board of directors of Cultural Crossroads the sponsoring organization does not have the funds to produce it. The ghost of Sallie Baker and her ghouls will sit this one out and hope for a better year in 2012. State budget cuts to the arts coupled with the slow economy led the board of Cultural Crossroads to have to cut some of their programming.

“This was one of my favorite events,” states Chris Broussard, Chairman of the Board. “It’s been a really scary year and not in a fun Halloween kind of way.” Broussard continues. “We’ve had to tighten our belt and make some tough decisions about what areas to cut. We’re hopeful that 2012 will be a better year and we can bring ole Sallie back.”

Cultural Crossroads is one of many arts organizations across the state that has had to adjust their budgets and programs due to deep cuts in State funding to the arts. “We’re a little concerned about our annual Spring Arts Festival, too,” adds Broussard. Cultural Crossroads was recently awarded a $4,000 grant from the State Decentralized Grants Fund which was approximately half of what the organization has received in previous years. A $7,500 grant from the Webster Parish Tourism office helped to offset this year’s festival. “We will be sponsoring a fundraiser early next year in hopes of raising the additional funds so that we can continue our three day arts festival,” Broussard continues. “Right now, we can only afford one day of the three day festival. “ The Spring Arts Festival now in its 18th year has been known for bringing the arts to area school children. “With no arts curriculum in the public schools aside from the Gifted and Talented program, the Spring Arts Festival has been filling that void and bringing to many of our children their first real art experience,” Mrs. Broussard explains.

Cultural Crossroads annual budget of nearly $100,000 doesn’t include any paid staff. The nineteen year old organization has operated without an executive director so that 100% of their contributions could go towards programming. A quarter of their annual budget comes from support from the Webster Parish Police Jury while another quarter of their support comes from local corporations and businesses and the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau. Earned income generated from admission fees to their events and grants make up the other half of their annual budget. Cultural Crossroads has been successful in bringing to the parish more than a million dollars in state and federal grant dollars over their nearly twenty year existence.

The organization is writing more grants than ever this year and their future plans for the Farm will include some future projects that will offer more earned income opportunities to insure the Farm’s future sustainability. “Our four acre Farm has so many rich resources and we’re hoping to tap into those resources in the future so that our community’s children can enjoy the benefits of creative expression and intellectual refinement for years to come,” Broussard adds.

To learn more about Cultural Crossroads of the Farm or make a donation visit their website at

www.artsinminden.com.

Pearl Fest 2011 Attended by Many Out of Towners Along With Mindenites

2011-09-26T09:53:00.008-05:00

Pearl Fest Was a Real Jewel!

MINDEN, LA-- Pearl Fest lived up to its tag line “All music. All People.” Hundreds showed up in Minden this past weekend for Cultural Crossroads’ second annual music festival raising hundreds of dollars. The local arts organization that owns and manages the four acre festival sight known as ‘the Farm’ delivered on its promise. The range of musicians was as diverse as the crowds. Young and old and everything in between were out of their seats and dancing to songs they knew and songs they had heard for the first time.

More than fifty musicians donated their time this past weekend while showcasing their music and the reason they were there…. to raise funds for the “Cultured Pearl” scholarships.” Young musicians from area schools and seasoned musicians from area cities brought their talent to the back porch of the Farm and the main stage of the pavilion. “The caliber of music provided here this weekend was incredible,” states Randal Wilson of Baton Rouge. “It’s hard to imagine it any better. The atmosphere at the Farm was equally incredible. We had a wonderful time.”

Remembering the late Percy Mayfield and his music was highlighted Saturday evening with a video of one of Percy’s last interviews. The crowd cheered the Minden native who penned lyrics for Ray Charles and BB King. “They clapped and reacted to the film as though Percy were here in person, “states Julie Vogel, co-chair for the event.

Other highlights of the evening included the explosive performances of Angela Wills, Clinton Keener and Dorothy Prime, Louisiana’s Queen of Soul. Dat Band from Shreveport brought the evening to a close but not before coaxing singers from the crowd to chime in including local school board member Johnnye Kennon.

Surveys conducted at the gate revealed a significant increase in the number of out- of- towners to visit the Farm. “Folks came from Breaux Bridge, Baton Rouge, Monroe, Shreveport, Bossier, Houston, Dallas, Magnolia, Arkansas and all areas in between,” boasts Chris Broussard, Chairman of the Board. “Our attendance was definitely larger than last year, thanks to the incredible weather and an impressive lineup of talent,” adds Mrs. Broussard. “We heard over and over again from not only the people in attendance but the musicians as well that the Farm was the perfect outdoor venue for music. “

Pearl Fest was sponsored by Blazer Construction of Sibley and funded in part by an advertising grant from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The Pearl Fest 2011 Schedule Is Here!

2011-09-09T20:34:00.005-05:00

Friday, September 23rd (7pm-12am)

-7:00 – 7:30: Casey Dozier (Back porch)
-7:35 – 8:05: Jason Quarles (Back porch)
-8:15 – 8:30: Ethan Spillers & Nick Joslin (Back porch)
-8:35 – 8:50: Aubrie Stahl (Back porch)
-8:50 – 10:00 Sanchez & the Symbiotes (Main Stage)
-10:15 – 11:00: TANDEM (Main Stage)
-11:15 – 12:00: Federalies (Main Stage)

Saturday, September 24th (2pm-12am)

-2:00 - 2:15: Brianna Wiese (Back porch)
-2:20 - 2:25: Meredith Nelson (Back porch)
-2:30 – 2:55: Brandon Ratcliff & Quincy Hicks (Back porch)
-3:00 – 4:00: AJ & The Two Tone Blues Band (Main Stage)
-4:00 – 4:30: Brad Ewing (Back porch)
-4:30 – 5:00: Irene & the Sleepers (Main Stage)
-5:00-5:30: Ben Jenkins (Back porch)
-6:00 – 6:20: Derek Rice (Main Stage)
-6:25 – 7:10: Joel Jordan (Back porch)
-7:15 – 7:30: Danielle Evans(Main Stage)
-7:35 – 7:55: Angela Wills (Main Stage)
-8:00 – 8:20: Jim Reed (Back porch)
-8:25 – 9:00: Engine (Main Stage)
-9:00 – 9:30: Percy Mayfield Video
-9:25 – 9:45: Clinton Keener (Main Stage)
-9:50 – 10:30: Dorothy Prime (Main Stage)
-10:30 – 12:00: Dat Band

-Show up around 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled time.
-Each band member will receive 1 free ticket for entry to be redeemed at the gate.

Location: 417 E. Union in Minden, LA at the corner of Talton St. and E. Union (Hwy. 80).

The Farm's Water Park Day Recap

2011-08-08T13:41:00.005-05:00

Many had a blast at last Saturday's Water Park Day at The Farm (Sat., August 6, 2011). Kids were waiting at the gate when it opened at 10am. Between 30 and 40 children were in and out all day enjoying the nice, big tubs full of refreshing and cool water. Parents got to enjoy watching the kids splash and have fun in the shade. For some children, it was their first time to get to play in the water this Summer. We're so happy the children got to experience it! All the kids were offered chips and popsicles every half hour.

Thank you for supporting Cultural Crossroads and the many projects it provides the community. If you would like to support, please go to www.artsinminden.com to find out how to help!

Name This Flower!....

2011-08-08T13:37:00.002-05:00

We have a mystery plant growing at The Farm and we need your help figuring out what it is. This is one of the plants that has recently been let to "go wild" and this is the gift it gave back. It is one of the original plants of the property that Mrs. Zenobia West and her two Aunts planted. It grows on a vine. So help us figure out what plant this is....

Beat the Heat -- Cooling Stations Are Here!

2011-08-05T16:49:00.000-05:00

Cultural Crossroads and St. Rest Baptist church have teamed up to address the scorching hot temperatures by providing a couple of 'cooling stations.'

St. Rest will open their new community center with special activities for seniors and children. Cultural Crossroads' Farm located just a half a block from the church will open up Saturday, Aug. 6 from 10am-3pm with an old fashioned water park. Fully equipped with cold water in brand new horse troughs, the makeshift swimming pools will provide neighborhood kids with a cool dip in the water. With plenty of shade, the four acre Farm will provide a nice retreat for neighborhood children. Popsicles will be handed out compliments of Sheriff Gary Sexton. Lots of ice cold water and chips are compliments of Gene Reynolds, candidate for State Representative. And Coca Cola Bottling Company has donated bottled water for the church's cooling station.

July 3rd - Minden's 1st Blues & Old School Music Festival

2011-07-14T14:37:00.007-05:00

On July 3, 2011, many fine Minden folks enjoyed great food, friends and music at The Farm on Talton St. The event was produced by Penal Farm Rd. Entertainment, LLC.

(Penal Farm Rd. Entertainment Owners: Avrett, Sugar Bear, and Lavert)

-- Part of the crowd enjoying the live music under the Farm pavillion.

-- House band, "Dat Band", keeps the crowd entertained.

-- A young patron dancing to the live music.

-- Unique's Barbecue smoking on the grill.

Nearly two hundred people converged on the Farm in Minden recently for the first Blues and Old School Festival. Among the musicians and singers to perform was Dorothy Prime. Mrs. Prime has been singing for forty five years and has performed with Johnny Taylor, Ike and Tina Turner, and BB King. Her most recent engagement included assisting Eric Clapton with his latest album. The Homer native who sells cars for Harper Motors in Minden toured in Italy and London and has two top hits of her own, “Find Yourself” and “Alcohol Blues.” Other musicians highlighted included Angela Mills, Hollywood Hayes of Houston, Texas, Derrick Rick, Ceasar Calloway, and Clinton Keener while the house band “Dat Band” accompanied many of the singers.

“I’ve been to many music festivals and this one was over the top,” states Julie Vogel, board member of Cultural Crossroads.

The first Blues Festival was produced by the Penal Farm Road Entertainment LLC of Minden. The group is already working on next year’s festival. The Penal Farm Road Entertainment Co. will join forces with Cultural Crossroads this spring to assist in the production of the second annual Pearl Fest to be held at the Farm. For more information visit the website www.artsinminden.com.

Some other facts about musicians from the 1st annual event:
-Dorothy Prime - singing for 45 years; performed with Johnny Taylor, Ike and
Tina, and BB King and helped Eric Clapton on his latest album. Toured in Italy
and London. Top hits "Find Yourself a Job" and "Alcohol Blues"

-Angela Wills - Minden native...independent gospel recording artist...project
entitled "My Everything" to be released this November.

-Hollywood Hayes - Houston native...former member of Marvin Sease Band...first
single "We Have Some Problems" next release "In the Mood"

Earth Campers 2011

2011-06-17T08:22:00.004-05:00

Our art camp kids created their first piece of original art using handmade stencils. These 'Fleur De Leaves' were one of several pieces of art completed this week. Next week, an entirely different group of kids will meet up at the Farm for week two of Earth Camp.

The Farm was the perfect location for Earth Camp. While temperatures were in the 90's, there was always a cool gentle breeze at the Farm. It was surprisingly comfortable and the atmosphere was perfect for bringing home the message that we need to 'take care of our Earth.'

The Farmer's Market Starts This Weekend!

2011-05-12T08:23:00.000-05:00

Please join us this coming SATURDAY May 14 at "The Farm" (across from Sav A Lot Grocery)..We will be opening to the public at 7:OO A.M. Having a variety of goodies i.e.: Jellies, Candy, Cookies, Eggs, Handmade soaps, some vegetables. We will also have bee and bat boxes, bird feeders and bird houses. This is only a sample of what will be available. We also will have some yard sales.

A LETTER FROM OUR CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

2011-05-04T21:34:00.002-05:00

I have called Minden my home since 1971. I’ve spent the majority of my life trying to encourage, expose, teach and promote the arts. With all the studies that show the value of an arts curriculum and how the arts play an important role in brain development of a child, I am constantly amazed how that message isn’t getting to the right people. Or that it has been discounted, down-played and out-right ignored. I’ve even come to wonder if there’s a conspiracy to dumb down our children especially when you consider that we seem to be putting all of our emphasis on teaching children how to pass a test. Aren’t we simply teaching them ‘what’ to think and not ‘how’ to think? With all the studies that show the role the arts play in critical thinking and problem solving, and with no arts curriculum in our schools, there’s no wonder our children’s scores are lacking. And I’m not surprised that our drop -out percentages are as high as they are.

Many of you are parents and you have to be seeing the same thing I am. You have to be wondering who is making the rules and who is turning our schools into prisons for our children. Instead of unlocking their minds, we’re limiting their brain development and we’re limiting their future prospects. I remember a learning environment when I was young that included music, art and theatre. I remember a school environment that made me want to go to school every day because I had something to look forward to and I felt challenged. Today’s children are stressed and the challenges they face appear to be the aggressive nature of another child.

As the founder of the first afterschool enrichment center in Minden, I know first-hand what the arts can do to not only improve a child’s self image but also what it can do to spark a child’s imagination, create a desire for learning and open their mind to unlimited possibilities. Right now, we are simply teaching them how to answer questions. Without a stimulating environment, it’s only a matter of time before more of our children will become statistics.

While considering the future of our country and the many challenges our children and grandchildren will face, they’re going to need more creative thinkers. We may not be able to change the school system but we can change the opportunities we provide to children through community-related activities.

And while we may not be able to solve the current financial challenges that seem to keep the arts out of school, there is another alternative. Community partnerships with the arts. We do have a local non- profit that has been filling the void for nearly two decades. Cultural Crossroads has already been providing what little art enrichment there is in the schools aside from the Gifted and Talented Program. Their annual Spring Arts Festival has provided opportunities for real art experiences free of charge to area children. This all volunteer organization led by a group of dedicated advocates for the arts and children have brought in nearly a million dollars to our parish in the past 15 years in the form of grants and foundation dollars. And they would do more but they are limited, too, limited in their funds and in the community support they receive. They need more volunteers. They need more corporate dollars so they can provide matching money for more grant opportunities. And they need more people to support their efforts.

As the chairman of the board of Cultural Crossroads, I do have an agenda. …to provide more opportunities for children to unlock their minds while increasing their desire for learning through the arts. I know it works. I am living proof.

If you would like to learn more about Cultural Crossroads and their programs visit their website at www.artsinminden. com. And if you would like to become a community partner, call me at 318-393-5991.

Passionate about the arts,
Chris Broussard

This letter ran in the Minden Press Herald in April of this year. We thought it was important enough to circulate on our blog.

SAF 2011: Children's Yarn & Thread Contest Winners

2011-05-03T06:28:00.001-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDREN'S YARN & THREAD CONTEST WINNERS

5TH-6TH GRADE
1st Place Sarah Walker
9TH-10TH GRADE
1st Place Laece Poe
2nd Place Gerrica Cheatham
11TH-12TH GRADE
1st Place Hannah Pickard Button's Pillow
2nd Place Erica Ruch Bowl
3rd Place Whitney Hudgens Pillow
Hon Men Raven Hall Pillow
LaCandio White Pillow

BEST OF SHOW: Laece Poe

SAF 2011: Poetry Contest Winners

2011-05-03T06:22:00.001-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDREN'S POETRY CONTEST WINNERS

1ST-2ND GRADE
1st Place Emily Ramie "The Chicken Day" Glenbrook
3RD-4TH GRADE
1st Place Sarah Renaud "Lions" Richardson
5TH-6TH GRADE
1st Place Jaycee Johnson Springhill
2nd Place Cassiday McKinney "Cassidy" Phillips Middle School
3rd Place Cassiday McKinney "Green" Phillips Middle School
7TH-8TH GRADE
1st Place Bridget Cone "Haiku" Glenbrook
2nd Place Chase Adams "Love" Springhill
3rd Place Olivia McIntryre "Trials & Tribulations“ Springhill
9TH-10TH GRADE
1st place Andrew Evans "I said a Prayer for you" Springhill
2nd Place Kayla O'Neal "Stop Waiting" Homeschool
3rd Place Jasmine Mills "Mid summer” Homeschool
4th Place Kayla O'Neal "Get Back Up Again" Homeschool
11TH-12TH GRADE
1st Place Kara O'Neal "Rain" Homeschool
2nd place Kara O'Neal "Light's Dance" Homeschool
3rd place Leslie Abdelkader "Death of a Firefly" Springhill
4th place Kara O'Neal "There's a Certain Magic" Homeschool

BEST OF SHOW Kayla O'Neal "Once I loved" Homeschool
BEST OF SHOW Alexis Brophy "I know" Springhill

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Pre K-K

2011-05-02T21:58:00.000-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
PRE K-K DIVISIONS: 65 Entries
Mixed Medium
1st Place Stella Powell "Funky Chicken" Glenbrook
2nd Place Jordan Coleman "Blue House" Harper
3rd Place Paige Beck "Funky Chicken" Glenbrook
4th Place Caden Thornton "Blue House" Richardson
Watercolors
1st Place Kaleigh Foster "Red Sam" Richardson
2nd Place Timiah Hawkins "Red Sam" Webster PreK
Pencil/Crayon
1st Place Anna Lee "Chef Anna" Glenbrook
2nd Place Gracie Purvis "Let's Eat" Glenbrook
3rd Place Maleah Barker "The Chef" Glenbrook
4th Place Ansley Glasscock "The Cook" Glenbrook
Painting
1st place Colin Herndon "Karate" Harper
2nd Place Emile Talry "Lighthouse" Browning
3rd Place Jacob Powell "Funky Chicken" Glenbrook
4th Place Sophie Spiullers "Untitled" Webster PreK
4th Place Elyse Jackson "Flower" Glenbrook

BEST OF SHOW: Paige Lott "Funky chicken" Glenbrook

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 1-2

2011-05-02T21:57:00.000-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADES 1-2 186 Entries
Mixed Medium
1st Place Aidan Harris "Bluejeans & Quilts Glenbrook
2nd Place Jackson Powell "Lights on" Glenbrook
3rd Place Hannah Mosley "On the Farm" Glenbrook
4th Place John Gilbert "Blue House" Richardson
Watercolors
1st Place Jemma Killingworth "Scarecrow & Barn" Glenbrook
2nd Place Grady Brasher "Sunflowers" Glenbrook
3rd Place Emma Earnhardt "Scarecrow & Barn" Glenbrook
4th Place Katelyn McNight "Cat" Richardson
Pencil/Crayon
1st Place Aidan Harris "Self Portrait" Glenbrook
2nd Place Annistan Jordan "Have a Cupcake" Glenbrook
3rd Place Elizabeth Walker "Rainbow Rooster" Homeschool
4th Place Emily Ramie "Carrots Anyone" Glenbrook
Painting
1st place Aiden Harris "Starry, Starry Holy Night" Glenbrook
2nd Place Jake Moro "Funky Chicken" Harper
3rd Place Kaylie Nelson "Bug" Glenbrook
4th Place Rhodes Greer "Daffodil" Glenbrook
Collages
1st Place Connor Humphries "Chicken" Glenbrook
2nd Place Cheyenne Moore "Chicken" Glenbrook
3rd Place Harvey Cole "Mask" Browning
4th Place Katelyn Massey "Chicken" Glenbrook

BEST OF SHOW: Jackson McKinney "Blue Dog" Harper

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 3-4

2011-05-02T21:54:00.001-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADES 3-4 165 Entries
Mixed Medium
1st Place Kerigan Sanders "Spring Cleaning" Glenbrook
2nd Place Kacee Nixon "Ruff Ruff" Stewart
3rd Place Katherine Chumbley "Grandma's Quilts" Glenbrook
4th Place Ally (?) "Barn" Glenbrook
Watercolors
1st Place Emma Whyte "Weird Blown" Glenbrook
2nd Place Daniel Miller "Come on Crows" Glenbrook
3rd Place Savannah Moro "Red Sam" Harper
4th Place Aubrie Dickson "Curly" Glenbrook
Pencil/Crayon
1st Place Eli McGraw "Louisiana Cook" Glenbrook
2nd Place Savannah Moro "Funky Town" Harper
3rd Place Skylar Davis "Want a Snowcone" Glenbrook
4th Place John Curtis Brown "Fleur de lis gardener" Glenbrook
Painting
1st place Hayden Whyte "4 Pears" Glenbrook
2nd Place Shadra Neal "Barn" Brown Upper
3rd Place Katie Hortman "3 Pears" Glenbrook
4th Place Dreunna Washington "Ode to Jocob Lawrence" Brown Upper
Collage
1st Place Avery Dye "I'm such a pretty egg" Glenbrook
2nd Place Michaela Waits "Oh No my egg broke" Glenbrook
3re Place Darbi Walker "I'm so Eggy, right?" Glenbrook
4th Place Hope Kennedy "I wanna play play play all day Glenbrook
Photography
1st Place Logan Bailery "Chicken with Tree" Central
2nd Place Logan Bailery "Chicken with Flowers" Central

BEST OF SHOW: Katherine Chumley "Pears on Plaid" Glenbrook

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 5-6

2011-05-02T21:47:00.002-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADES 5-6 169 Entries
Mixed Medium
1st Place Katelyn O'Neal "Clown Print Untitled" Brown Upper
2nd Place Rico Gonzales "Picasso Face" Springhill
3rd Place Kadie Garza "St. Louis Cathedral" Ringgold
4th Place Jenni Nguyen "Untitled" Glenbrook
Watercolors
1st Place Parker Christy "Indian ArtiFacts" Glenbrook
2nd Place Kelsey Gilliam "Pottery Corn" Glenbrook
3rd Place Payton Lee "The Big Red" "Red Sam" Glenbrook
4th Place Braden McLemore "Summer Harvest" Glenbrook
Pencil/Crayon
1st Place Dylan Cone "Bistro Chef" Glenbrook
2nd Place Matlavius Wortham "Smile" Springhill
3rd Place Peyton Lee "Chef Molly" Glenbrook
4th Place Rico Gonzales "Spider/lockers" Springhill
Painting
1st place Jacie Brent "Easter Chicken" Shongaloo
2nd Place Holly Hoenke "Tomatoes" Glenbrook
3rd Place Tristen Parrie "Self Portrait Phillips
4th Place Layla Easley "Self Portrait in Green" Harper
Collage
1st Place Dakota McGarity "Miss Crawfish" Glenbrook
2nd Place Brier Compton "Abstract" Glenbrook
3re Place Gracie Simonton "Eat More Shrimp" Glenbrook
4th Place Emily Frye "Please wait to be seated" Glenbrook
Photography
1st Place Merry Faith Ward "Breathless" Phillips
2nd Place Mariah Ray "Love Potion" Phillips
3rd Place Merry Faith Ward "God's Beauty" Phillips
4th Place Jacie Brent "Frozen Feathers" Shongaloo
Sculptures
1st Place Leela Caswell "Chicken Burrito" Springhill
2nd Place Thomas Sanders "Fish Shoe" Glenbrook
3rd Place Abigail Gilbert "Priscilla Peacock" Glenbrook
4th Place Alaysia Wright "Elephant" Stewart

BEST OF SHOW: Leanna Cooper "Barn" Glenbrook

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 7-8

2011-05-02T21:45:00.000-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADE 7-8 43 Entries
Pencil/Drawings
1st Place Shalen Haney "Portrait" Springhill
2nd Place Ali Johnson "Fleur de lis potpourri" Webster Jr.
3rd Place Allie Bridges "Portrait" Springhill
Mixed Medium
1st Place Arabelle Adamis "Perception" Springhill
2nd Place DeAnna Cain "Guitar" Springhill
Photograph
1st Place Marjoria Bailey "Rooster on Rake" Lakeside
2nd Place Marjoria Bailey "Misty Morning" Lakeside
3rd Place Michelle Sprawls "Momma Cow & Baby Cow" Springhill
4th Place Dylan West "Strawberries & Chocolate" Springhill
Painting
1st place Shalen Haney "Untitled" Springhill
2nd Place Shalen Haney "Blossom Me" Springhill
3rd Place Alexis Downs "Head of a Man" Glenbrook
4th Place Abbie Adams "Abstract" Springhill
Collages
1st Place Brittany Duke "Apple Inc" Springhlll
2nd Place Savannah Crell "Colorful Flowers" Springhlll
3rd Place Michelle Sprawls "Chanel" Springhlll
Sculptures
1st Place Marjorie Bailey "Owl" Lakeside
2nd Place James Flint "Three Face" Springhill
3rd Place Kristin Sparkman "Chinese Tower" Springhill
4th Place Katherine Hall "Red Ziggerat" Springhill

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 9-10

2011-05-02T21:42:00.001-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADES 9-10 56 Entries
Mixed Medium
1st Place Alexis Kenny Abstract w/mast "Spring Cleaning" Springhill
2nd Place Tate Smith "Large Abstract" Springhill
3rd Place Mikaela Carrender "Let's Doodle" Minden
Watercolors
1st Place Alex Taylor "Trees & Wind" Springhill
2nd Place LaeCe Poe "Untitled" Springhill
Pencil/Crayon
1st Place Mikala Carrender "Power to Change the World" Minden
2nd Place Mattavious Wortham "Cat" "Smile" Springhill
3rd Place Kayla O'Neal "Elephant" Homeschool
4th Place Bradley Morgan "Floral" Sarepta
Painting
1st place Bradley Morgan Untitled Sarepta
2nd Place Ashley Luckett "Chinese Floral" Springhill
3rd Place Kayla O'Neal "After the Storm" Homeschool
4th Place Skylar Umphries "Self portrait in yellow" Shongaloo
Collage
1st Place LaeCe Poe "Choose Life" Springhill
Photography
1st Place Brandi Sims "Underwater Feat" Springhill
2nd Place Ashley Luckett "Look Into My Eyes" Springhill
3rd Place Jacarra Little "Lizards in New Orleans" Springhill
4th Place Kayla O'Neal "See Beyond" homeschool

BEST OF SHOW: Paten Allen "Portrait of girl & boy" Springhill

SAF 2011: ART CONTEST WINNERS: Grades 11-12

2011-05-02T21:27:00.002-05:00

2011 SAF CHILDRENS ART CONTEST WINNERS
GRADES 11-12 44 Entries
Pencil/Drawings
1st Place Travarious Lawson "Sun" Springhill
2nd Place Shunti Wortham "Geometric Springhill
3rd Place JeQuavious White "Lockers" Springhill
4th Place JeQuavious White "Round Circles" Springhill
Mixed Medium
1st Place Cody Palmer "Bull" Springhill
2nd Place Travarious Lawson "Help us find jobs" Springhill
Photograph
1st Place Taylor Page "Leaf" Glenbrook
2nd Place Chandler Nelson "Limes" Glenbrook
3rd Place Michelle Sprawls Morgan Wren "Frog" Glenbrook
4th Place Sara McCann "Field at Sundown" Glenbrook
Painting
1st place Savannah Brown "Punky Chicken" Glenbrook
2nd Place Kayla Hardy "live Strong" Minden
3rd Place Mathew Tucker "Mr. Sir" Glenbrook
4th Place Kayla Hardy "Birds/cage" Minden
Watercolors
1st Place Tyjuan Thomas "No Street Car" Springhlll
2nd Place Rachael Nastasi "WC Bird" Glenbrook
3rd Place Rudy Spurlock "Portrait" Glenbrook
4th Place Savannah Brown "Trees" Glenbrook

BEST OF SHOW Beaux Gipson's "Dog" Glenbrook

12-year-old artist sparked Louisiana spirit at Spring Arts Festival

2011-05-02T09:11:00.002-05:00

Savanah Hall, a Webster-born 12 year old artist, showcased her work at this year’s Spring Arts Festival in Minden over the weekend. Hall, who has not received any formal training, began painting “Peli” & “Pelie”, a “brother and sister” pelican team, in 2010 following the Gulf coast oil spill.

The duo is the sole creation of Hall, who refers to them as “ambassadors” for pelicans, sea birds, and other creatures of the sea, which are often affected by pollutants introduced to the Gulf of Mexico. Hall’s artwork depicts Peli & Pelie in the midst of a number of activities, including work and play.

“I was amazed,” said Jenny Reynolds, a Cultural Crossroads board member and festival supporter. “To see yet another of our young people doing such amazing things with her God-given talents is so inspiring. She does her work with a greater purpose; and that’s so great to see.”

Hall, born in Minden to parents Samantha Brown and Shane Patterson, now resides in Sabine Parish with her adoptive mother, Shannon Hall, who helped the young artist develop Savanah & Company, the business-front which sells quality prints and decals of her original paintings and designs. Hall attributes some of her innate art skills to Samantha, who she describes as a natural artist.

Hall sold numerous pieces during 2011’s art festival; and hundreds of festival-goers became new admirers of this incredibly talented artist and young entrepreneur.

“One of the professional artists we featured during the festival just fell in love with Savanah’s work,” explained Cultural Crossroads Founder and Chairman of the Board Chris Broussard. “She purchased some of Savanah’s autographed pieces to present to Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne at an upcoming event!”

For more information about Savanah Hall and her characters, Peli & Pelie, email savanah@satcomsigns.com.

The 2011 Great Talent Search Winners Are.....

2011-05-01T19:57:00.003-05:00

Elementary Division -
Honorable Mention - Peyton Garner, Shongaloo Elem. - Solo Vocalist
3rd Place - Khristopher Jones, Jones Elem. - Praise Dancer
2nd Place - Sydni Richardson, Shongaloo Elem. - Jazz Dancer
1st Place - Kayus Gros, Central Elem. - Break Dancer

Middle School Division -
3rd Place (Tie) - Madison Couch, Kendall Brunson, Allyson Doyle (Hip Hop Dance Group), Central Elem.
3rd Place (Tie) - Abigail Gilbert, Glenbrook School - Pianist
2nd Place - Maite Bean, Webster Jr. High - Solo Vocalist
1st Place - Collin Jenkins, Shongaloo - Solo Vocalist

High School Division -
3rd Place - Bria Wiese, Sarepta High School - Solo Vocalist
2nd Place - Dalton Harrison, Shongaloo - Whip Cracker
1st Place - Meredith Nelson, Glenbrook - Acoustic Guitar/Vocalist

2011 Winners' Circle (1st place winners from past and present competed for scholarship money)
(Tied)
Collin Jenkins, Shongaloo - Solo Vocalist
Abby Reynolds, Lakeside - Tap Dancer *2010 winner
** The two chose to split the money, so they were each awarded $125 to be used toward the development of their talents.
_____________________________________________

" Overall Most talented School" in Webster parish was awarded once again to Glenbrook (they were also awarded a $2,500 Arts In Education program for 2012.)
"Most Talented Elementary School"--Glenbrook
"Most Talented Middle School" --Springhill Jr. Hi.
"Most Talented Hi School" --Shongaloo Hi
"Most Talented Student" --Jaycee Brent, Shongaloo Middle School

Fun Painting Funky Chickens at The Farm

2011-04-28T09:41:00.008-05:00

Some great friends joined Chris Broussard out at The Farm to paint some permanent Funky Chickens on the pavilion. The "Funky Chicken" is the Farm of the mascot so it was time to make some Funky Chickens permanent residents.
Joining her for the fun was Abby and Alex Reynolds, Marjorie Bailey, and Brandon. Thanks friends for your great artwork!

Abby poses in front of her creation, "Funky Diva Chicken".

Brandon and Alex Reynolds added custom details to several Farm fixtures for an added creative touch!

Marjorie Bailey works on her "Funky Gardner Chicken"

Come enjoy this artwork and more on Saturday at the Spring Arts Festival, at The Farm on Hwy. 80 in Minden!

SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL 2011 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS!

2011-04-23T15:35:00.006-05:00

Click on each image below to view it larger or to print it out for reference.
And be sure to come out and have a blast all day long! Support the Arts!!!

We Need Your Help!

2011-04-21T09:03:00.003-05:00

Please join us in supporting the Spring Arts Festival this year. It is prepared and produced by all volunteers. Community and corporate funding makes it happen. We need your help. Please join us!

Click on the images below to view them larger and to print them:

Area Student Artwork on Display at City ArtWorks!

2011-04-18T13:18:00.006-05:00

Thursday, April 14, children and their families crowded into City ArtWorks to view the hundreds and hundreds of art entries from parish children. The reception was co-hosted by Cultural Crossroads and Glenbrook . The works of area students K-12 will remain on exhibit to the end of the month.

City Artwork is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 1pm-6pm and Saturdays from 11-2pm. Please go by and witness the amazing talent of our children!

WE NEED YOUR HELP: Saturday, April 9th!!!

2011-04-02T09:57:00.002-05:00

Community invited to Work Day at the Farm

MINDEN, La—Getting the 'Farm' ready for the 17th annual Spring Arts Festival is no easy task and organizers are asking the community to come out and help. Saturday, April 9th from 9am-2pm volunteers will be gathering at the Farm to spruce the grounds up for the April 28- 30th festivities. Anyone and everyone is invited. "There's plenty for everyone to do, even kids," remarks Chris Broussard, festival co-chair.

"The various flower beds at the Farm will be made ready for spring planting and the grounds could use some weed eating," Broussard adds. "We have a variety of areas that could use a special touch. We have limbs to pick up. Mulch to set out. Trash to pick up. Tables to be washed. Floors to be swept. We would really appreciate the help."

Anyone interested in helping this all-volunteer organization are encouraged to bring their gloves, water and garden tools. Or if you're just inclined to help get the community garden ready for planting, come on by. Lunch will be served to volunteers. "Even if you can only give us an hour of your time, it would sure help," adds Julie Vogel, festival co-chair.

The 17th annual Spring Arts Festival "ChickenStock" is slated for April 28-30th at Cultural Crossroads four acre festival site known more commonly as 'the Farm.' To learn more, check their website at www.artsinminden.com.

PLEASE BRING YOUR PLASTIC 2 LITER BOTTLES!!!

2011-04-02T09:55:00.000-05:00

April 28-30 are the dates for Cultural Crossroads' Spring Arts Festival "ChickenStock." On Thursday and Friday of festival week, national artists will be joined by area professionals to provide hands on art activities to over 500 area third graders. This free all-day event tagged as "Kids Day on the Farm" is the organization's best kept secret. Only open to area children, the festivities for Thursday and Friday are reserved for them. They will be joined by national 'trashformer' Alice Guffey Miller. Mrs. Miller will work with the children in the creation of the largest funky chicken sculpture in recent history. Created out of found objects and 'trash,' this monumental public art piece will be erected for the Saturday festivities in honor of the Farm's new mascot.

Area school children are being asked to help collect the recycled items needed for the sculpture. Over 500 two litre soda bottles will be needed to complete the project. "We're asking that the bottles be washed inside and out with labels removed and caps placed back on," comments Molly Bailey, chairperson. The cleaned bottles can be dropped off at The Farm on the community work day scheduled for Saturday, April 10th from 9am-until 2pm or dropped off during the week at The Children's Center between the hours of 4pm and 6pm.

Cultural Crossroads is the designated arts agency for Webster Parish. They are supported this year by a capital grant from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau as well as an arts grant from the La. Div. of the Arts, the La. Dept of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and the Shreveport Regional arts council. For more information about Cultural Crossroads or the festival check out their website at www.artsinminden.com or email cbroussard@earthlink.net or jvogel99@yahoo.com.

Bring Out Your Chickens!!!

2011-04-02T09:47:00.004-05:00

The chickens to debut at this year’s Spring Arts Festival MINDEN, La—Chickens are getting in on the act this year as the Spring Arts Festival nears. Students from across the parish will be dressing up their pet chickens for the first annual chicken pageant. According to chairperson, Molly Bailey "if you don't have a chicken to dress up, we can get you one." The chicken pageant will be held on Saturday, April 30th on the main stage around the noon hour. Miss Minden Chandler Nelson will perform and officially open "ChickenStock" in song. Along with the chicken pageant, children will be encouraged to dress up in chicken costumes for prizes and ribbons and parade alongside the dressed up chicken. A rooster calling contest will follow the pageant with a cash prize for the loudest and best roster call. Participants can sign up the day of the festival. Cultural Crossroads is the designated arts agency for Webster Parish. They are supported this year by a capital grant from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau as well as an arts grant from the La. Div. of the Arts, the La. Dept of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and the Shreveport Regional arts council. For more information about Cultural Crossroads or the festival check out their website at www.artsinminden.com or email cbroussard@earthlink.net or jvogel99@yahoo.com.

Corporate Sponsors Needed!

2011-04-02T09:42:00.002-05:00

Corporate partners needed to help finance the Spring Arts Festival #15 Minden, LA—Cultural Crossroads' 17th annual festival of the arts is seeking additional corporate dollars to support their annual Spring Arts Festival estimated to cost more than $25,000 to produce. The Spring Arts Festival is a weekend filled with art related activities, contests, exhibits and demonstrations aimed at promoting the arts to children and their families as well as art enthusiasts in neighboring parishes and states. The Spring Arts Festival is supported in part by grant dollars from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, and the Shreveport Arts Council. Webster Parish's Convention and Visitor's Bureau is supporting this year's festival with a capital grant and an advertising grant. Last year's festival saw more than $10,000 in additional funds come from local corporations and businesses. Any proceeds from this annual event are used to provide Arts in Education projects in area schools. Letters and personal contacts with area businesses and corporations are being made during the next week in an effort to raise the additional $10,000 needed. Anyone interested in supporting the arts organization, may call Chris Broussard at 318-393-5991 or email cbroussard@earthlink.net. Cultural Crossroads is the official arts organization for Webster Parish with 501c3 federal non profit status. All donations are tax deductible. "The funds we raise to host this festival allows us to offer all the art related activities and contests to children free of charge," states Mrs. Broussard, festival coordinator. "It's important that these wonderful art experiences are made available to all the children of our parish," Broussard adds. "With little or no arts in our school curriculums, this is for most of these children, their first real art experience, comments Mrs. Broussard. Three days of activities have been set aside to celebrate the arts this year. Thursday and Friday, April 28 and 29th are reserved for nearly 500 area third graders who will spend a "Day on the Farm." Their fun filled day of art related activities will include working side by side with professional artists while creating works of art in a variety of mediums and disciplines. And all of this is provided free of charge to every child in attendance. The farm gates will open at 9am on Saturday, April 30th for the parish-wide talent search. More than 600 children from across the parish will compete in a variety of art contests while earning points to win the coveted title of "Most Talented School" and "Most Talented Student." The farm grounds will be filled with artisans displaying and demonstrating their art. The Spring Arts Festival is held annually on Cultural Crossroads' four acre 'farm' located on the corner of East Union and Talton Street in Minden. Admission is $5 for adults and all students get in free. Visit their website for details. www.artsinminden.com. More information about the Spring Arts Festival can be found on their website and blog at www.artsinminden.com.

SAF 2011: Talent Search Information!

2011-04-02T09:38:00.003-05:00

Open Auditions dates for Great Talent Search set

Minden, La— In an effort to discover the most talented children in our parish, the organizers of the annual Spring Arts Festival have decided to widen their scope of participation. On Saturday, April 9th and Saturday, April 16th from 9am until 12pm school age children from Webster Parish will be offered a chance to showcase their talent. The open auditions for students K-12 will be held at The Children's Center located at 806 Broadway Street in Minden.

The purpose of the auditions will be to find representation from each of the twenty four public and private schools in the parish. Three contestants from each school will be selected to advance to the finals to be held on Saturday, April 30th as part of the 17th annual Spring Arts Festival. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each age division of 'The Great Talent' search will win an etched plaque. Their scores will be added to the overall scores from art and poetry entries to determine the coveted title of "Most Talented School and “"Most Talented Student." "In the past, we've had everything from stand up comedy to poetry," states
Julie Vogel. "We're hopeful that children will seize the opportunity to showcase their talent and represent their schools."

There are several schools hosting in-school talent shows in an effort to send their most talented to the festival. Shongaloo, Central and Lakeside schools will send their own representatives to the festival. Any school wishing to host an in-school talent show are encouraged to do so, however the deadline to submit names for the finale scheduled for April 30th is Friday, April 22nd.

All students from Webster Parish are eligible to participate. There is no entry fee but anyone interested in auditioning are encouraged to register. Contestants may also register by phone by calling chairperson, Julie Vogel at 377-0319 or 286-9472. Registration forms will also be available the day of auditions and 'walk in' participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis only. Students will be judged on the basis of their talent and overall presentation by a panel of judges. A sound system will be on hand but each
contestant must bring everything they need to perform. All performances are limited to no more than 4 minutes. For more information about the Spring Arts Festival log on to www.artsinminden.com.

Glenbrook Students to Publish Book for Spring Arts Festival...

2011-03-22T13:06:00.001-05:00

4th and 6th grade students from Glenbrook will have their own book published in time for this year's festival. The students wrote and illustrated their own book as part of Dee Scallan's "We Want to Be Authors" program sponsored by Cultural Crossroads. The fictional book featuring the funky chicken will go on sale at the festival.

Cultural Crossroads has been instrumental in bringing this literary art program to area schools. This will be the fourth book published. Richardson Elementary students wrote the first book. Central Elementary wrote the second and Glenbrook students have completed two books. Both books feature the funky chicken as the main character.

The opportunity to write and illustrate their own book is awarded to the "Most Talented School in Webster Parish," an honor that is determined at each year's Spring Arts Festival.

Dee Scallan, creator of the program and award winning author instructed the children in the art of writing while Chris Broussard gave instructions on how to illustrate a book. Here's a peak at the beautiful illustrations by area children.

Alice Guffey Miller is Coming to This Year's Spring Arts Festival!

2011-03-08T17:32:00.007-06:00

Alice Guffey Miller, one of the nation’s leading female artists, is coming to Minden in April for this year's Spring Arts Festival!

The Arkansas native is 'one of the great unsung art geniuses of our time,' says poet laureate Robert Moore. Kids love her; contemporaries marvel at her abilities. You may have seen her art around the state or region…or even in Pottsdam, Germany.

Miller worked with 600 volunteers from the Waldron school district to construct "Pop, the Magic Dragon." Alice creates grant scale 'involvement sculptures' always emphasizing environmental awareness and community creativity. She uses a variety of recyclable materials in her work. "Pop, the Magic Dragon" contained 2,000 green plastic (Sprite and 7-up) bottles, inner tubes, tires, Styrofoam, wire and rebar.

The 'trashformer' as she calls herself is this year's featured artist for the Spring Arts Festival. Ms. Miller will be working with more than 250 third graders on Thursday and Friday, April 28 and 29 to create the newly adopted Farm mascot, the Funky Chicken.

While Miller claims her favorite art piece is the 'one I just finished,' Miller gives art a boost by "turning on" school children to the discipline through hands-on projects that display a "play" spirit and child-like quality that is both joyful and humorous. "She's a magician with kids! Every little thing that turns children on to their artistic talents is a benefit to all mankind." –Robert Moore.

Third graders from area elementary schools will be bused in to the Farm on Thursday and Friday(April 28-29) of festival week for a full day of hands -on art interaction with professional artists including Alice Guffey Miller. This art experience for many of these children is their first! It is provided free of charge thanks to local corporate support and grants from the Webster Parish Tourism Commission, the LA Div. of the Arts, the LA Ofc. of Culture, Recreation & Tourism and the Shreveport Arts Council.

The 2011 Spring Arts Festival Them is CHICKENSTOCK!

2011-02-24T11:19:00.003-06:00

You can expect some great down-home fun this year at the festival. Here are some attractions at this year's festival that you don't want to miss...
THE GREAT TALENT SEARCH:
Students from across the parish will compete on stage for the coveted title of “Most Talented Student.” From stand up comedy to singing solo, you'll find a variety of student talent mixed in with some of this area's professional musical talent.

CHILDREN'S ART:
The Children’s Hands On Museum features nearly a dozen stations of various art processes. The Children's Art, Poetry, Yard & Thread contest winners features the largest exhibition of children's art in the area.

CHILDREN & ADULT ART:

Visit the Adult Art & Craft Vendors scattered around the picturesque four acres for everything from handcrafted purses to original jewelry as well as an impressive collection of fine art. Sign up for any one of the many 'Families Create Workshops' and learn how to do a variety of art related processes. At only forty-five minutes to an hour, these workshops will spark your imagination and it’s FREE!

OPEN HOUSE:
Step back in time and enter the modest historic home of the Moess family. Built in 1933 following the devastating tornado, the quaint house is much like it was in the late thirties. Inside, you will also see original artwork created by area students in remembrance of the Thornton sisters, named by Guiness World Book as the oldest African American Siblings in the World in 2010.

PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION:
Try your hand at creating any one of several public art pieces and leave your mark at this year’s festival. Students from across the parish will participate in the creation of the Farm’s largest outdoor sculpture. Created out of found objects and trash, this year’s Funky Chicken will be recreated under the guidance of nationally known trash artist, Alice Guffey Miller.

ADMISSION IS $5 FOR ADULTS AND FREE FOR CHILDREN!

Join us at 417 E. Union in Minden for this great annual festival. A lot of hard volunteer work go into this every year and it's all to benefit families of the area. See you there!

Pearl Fest & Moon Over Minden Cancelled for 2011....

2011-02-10T13:50:00.003-06:00

We are sorry to announce that both the Pearl Fest music concert and our Halloween event - Moon Over Minden have been cancelled for 2011. Due to drastic community and corporate funding cuts, we aren't able to produce these events for the community.

The 2011 Spring Arts Festival is Coming!!

2011-02-07T10:06:00.002-06:00

Don't miss this great annual festival on APRIL 28-30, 2011. Be sure to check back here on the blog for more information as we get closer to festival time!

We Want To Hear From You!

2010-10-13T09:23:00.002-05:00

So...Do you have a story of your own? Do you remember a family member telling you a great story or ghost story about Sallie Baker? Maybe you visited the gravesite or have a strange tale to tell. Please let us know so everyone can enjoy your story. Please post a "Comment" below this post or email us directly at artforbrains(at)gmail(dot)com. In the next post you can read the story written by our great historian, John Agan. Enjoy and be sure to come to Moon Over Minden on October 29th & 30. More details are below on previous posts.

The Real Sallie Baker Story by John Agan

2010-10-13T09:19:00.002-05:00

During this month when our thoughts turn to ghost stories and the like, it is fun to examine what is probably the best-known ghost story in Webster Parish, the Legend of Sallie Baker’s grave. One uniting factor for teenagers from the Bienville Parish line all the way to the Arkansas border is the tales of the odd happenings at Sallie Baker’s grave near Cotton Valley. The stories of midnight visits to the site have been passed among the youth of our parish for several decades. Many different versions of who Sallie was are commonly told. Most involve her killing multiple husbands, attacking unsuspecting trespassers and in general terrorizing all who came near. However, on at least two occasions, by Diane Sentell in 1975, and by Karla Sumrall in 2000, the real story of Sallie has been examined in the pages of the Minden Press-Herald. In the spirit of Halloween and to help clear up Sallie’s memory, here is a brief summary of her life, as recounted by those two journalists.

Sally Caruthers was born in 1869, the daughter of George Caruthers, a respected farmer of Northern Webster Parish. In 1896, Sallie, at age 27 had married John Baker; a relief to her parents who feared was destined to become an “old maid.” John was in his early 30s and the couple moved to their own home, near the “bottoms” around Bayou Bodcau. Although the couple had no children, they had a happy life and eventually built a two–story cypress home. This peaceful life came to an end on July 26, 1925, when John fell dead on the front porch from a heart attack. The roots of the Sallie legend began with the circumstances of his death. The couple was alone at home when John was stricken. He had the attack while standing on the porch and collapsed against the porch rail. The rail gave way and John fell to the ground. Sallie ran to the nearest neighbors, two miles away to try and get help. When the body was found, its location gave rise to the rumor that Sallie had pushed her husband from the porch. That rumor was fueled by some
owners of adjoining property who had been engaged in a land dispute with the Bakers. Soon the usual small town rumor mill began cranking out the stories that would eventually give rise to the legend.

Sallie was now alone as a widow in her mid 50s, living in an isolated area, with no family nearby to help her get by. Her reaction to that situation created some of the behaviors that eventually added to and enhanced the legends arising about Sallie. Always capable with a gun, Sallie now took up her husband’s weapons to hunt for squirrels in the area around her home. Since few people came to her home, the few times she was seen were while roaming on these hunting expeditions. Thus the story arose that you “always see her with a gun”, increasing the image of a
mean lady. The gun usage took on another dimension, which was also related to the isolation of the Baker home. There were several people living the area of the Baker home that wanted Sallie’s property in addition to the usual prowlers who might attempt to sneak in and steal from a widow living alone. Sallie came to learn that anyone nearing her property could likely have sinister motivations, so she kept a gun handy. Visitors were always greeted by a gun-toting woman, and
many who did not have the best intentions, along with teenagers and older children bound for mischief, found that Sallie was more than willing to fire her weapon. But, despite the rumors, there is no record of anyone ever being shot while trespassing on the Baker land and no proof that Sallie did anything more than fire warning shots in defense of her home.

Sallie’s physical appearance added impetus to the wild tales of her escapades. In 1934, she purchased a Ford Coupe and began making weekly trips into Cotton Valley to buy her groceries and supplies. She always came in “full dress”, wearing an ankle-length dress of 1890s style, buttoned boots, gloves and a dress hat. The small sprightly-stepped lady drew attention from all passers-by, and in small town Webster Parish of the 1930s, she was always the topic of conversation on Saturdays when all the country folk were in town. As it could be expected, when
someone is the focus of conversation, the wild stories multiply. Sallie was becoming the focus of legend while she was still living.

As many different people and groups attempted to gain title to Sallie’s land, by both legal and illegal means, she became more and more wary of strangers and thus sparked even more anger and rumors among her neighbors. After fighting valiantly to keep her home for over a quarter of a century, Sallie finally found a foe she could not hold off. In 1951, as part of the Bodcau Flood Control Project, the Federal Government took her house and land along with that of many of her neighbors. Always the fighter, Sallie took the government to court and won a larger payment for her property than the amount received by other property owners.

With her beloved home gone, Sallie moved into Cotton Valley and lived out her life. She died on July 13, 1952, and was buried on a hill near her old home, and soon after her death the legends began to grow. It was in this period that the tales of poisoned husbands and pouring hot lead into the victim’s ears emerged. Other facts added to the mystique of the tale. It was true that Bonnie and Clyde had been guests at the Baker farm, and Sallie even claimed that they spent the night
before their death at her place. It was also a well-known fact that Sallie had kept money in sacks and hid them in the walls of her home and also buried them on her property. The claim that she had been buried with some of those sacks probably drew the first attention to the gravesite. Soon the stories of the strange little lady who had so steadfastly defended her land led to the tale that even though she was dead, she was still at the property keeping away the uninvited. Over the years the site became a favorite spot for teenage boys trying to “spook” their dates and the legend grew. By the 1970s and 1980s local media picked up the tale. They took the rumors and spiced them up a little bit and used a bit of selective journalism, on occasion taking stories told in jest as serious accounts. These factors helped contribute to the image of Sallie Baker we still have today. As a lifelong resident of Webster Parish I am sorry to confess that I have never been to Sallie Baker’s grave, but after learning the truth, I don’t think I’m afraid to go. Well, on second thought, maybe better safe than sorry is a good motto. Now that you know a little more about Sallie Baker, the real person, you can decide if you want to risk the wrath of Sallie Baker’s ghost this Halloween season.

Updated Details on Moon Over Minden 2010!

2010-10-12T09:56:00.003-05:00

Friday & Saturday, October 29th & 30th. 7pm - 11pm at The Farm in Minden (417 E. Union).
Admission is $8 per person.

Updated Details on the Zombie Prom & Dead Rock Star Concert!

2010-10-12T09:53:00.003-05:00

Saturday, November 6, 2010. 8pm -12midnight at The Farm in Minden (417 E. Union).
Admission is $20 for a couple or $12 for singles. Professional portraits will be available for purchase.

Quilt for Oprah Winfrey made in Minden documented

2010-09-21T10:33:00.004-05:00

The Quilting Queens were formed in 2006 following the closure of the NWLA Hurricane Relief Center housed in the old Walmart building on Homer Road in Minden.

Taking the unwanted clothes from the Center, the Quilting Queens created quilts with special messages. While many of the quilts were sold with proceeds going to the Hurricane Katrina and Rita relief efforts they were also documented by Dr. Susan Roach and can be seen on line.
The quilt created especially for Oprah and presented as a thank you gift for her contributions to the Hurricane Katrina efforts is also documented on line. To learn more about quilting or the Quilting Queens, check out this new blog HERE. Photographs of the Quilting Queens' quilts along the touching stories that inspired their creations can be seen here. We would like to publically thank Dr. Susan Roach for her dedication to preserving and documenting folklife in Louisiana.

The Quilting Queens and children attending the 2006 Spring Arts Festival helped to stitch the quilt by hand for one of the many celebrities that came to the rescue following hurricane Katrina. More than 400 volunteers carefully and lovingly stitched the quilt for Oprah Winfrey.

Halloween Casting Call!!!!

2010-09-21T10:30:00.002-05:00

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27TH 6:00pm- 7:00pm at The Children’s Center 806 Broadway Street in Minden We’re looking for volunteers for our upcoming Halloween Festival at the Farm Friday and Saturday, Oct. 29 & 30. Characters include: Zombies, hobos, freaks and cast for the haunted house. You must be 13 years of age or older.
For details, contact LESLIE COYLE 318-422-9663 or freedom.of.76@hotmail.com

Sallie Baker Is On Her Way!

2010-09-02T14:59:00.002-05:00

Moon Over Minden Is Coming!

2010-08-24T11:47:00.003-05:00

Check back here for more details in the future, but definitely mark your calendar for this great event for the whole family to enjoy! Don't miss it on October 29th & 30th at The Farm at 417 E. Union, right next to Save-A-Lot.

Pearl Fest 2010 Pics!

2010-08-12T13:32:00.003-05:00

For those of you who unfortunately missed the 2010 Pearl Fest event, we now have pictures taken throughout the day of the event compliments of Dana Burrows Denny. Cultural Crossroads Pearl Fest Pics 2010.

Come By The Farmer's Market Every Saturday!

2010-07-19T11:57:00.005-05:00

Come by every Saturday from 8am-12noon at 417 E. Union St. in Minden (corner of E. Union and Talton St. next to Save-A-Lot grocery store).

Back Porch Summer Series Recap!

2010-07-19T10:38:00.004-05:00

The Backporch Summer Music Series included a debut from Shreveport's new sensation, Matthew Davidson. The twelve year old musician played to an enthusiastic crowd Saturday night. The mixed demographics of young and young at heart appreciated Matthew's exceptional talent on the guitar. Matthew's love of popular Beatles' tunes were shared with the audience as many people sang along. John Lennon would have loved it! And John Lennon would have loved Matthew Davidson.

"We enjoyed our evening at The Farm last Saturday. Thanks so much for everything. I've posted a picture of Matthew playing at The Farm on his website and Facebook already, and added it to his bio information. Hope this will help call attention to what a neat place you have! Minden was good to Matthew last week!" - Ella Davidson

http://www.matthewdavidson.net/Photos.php
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=103032389745012&share_id=127595987277660&comments=1#!/gomatthew

The next backporch musician is expected to perform Saturday, July 31st. Cultured Pearl recipient Ben Jenkins will grace the backporch at the Farm with some of his original music. The newly signed artist will release his new CD. It promises to be a great night. Admission is $5 and we welcome everyone at the Farm.

12 year old guitarist to perform on backporch of the Farm this weekend!

2010-07-14T10:28:00.003-05:00

Cultural Crossroads will host their second in a series of musical experiences at the Farm this Saturday in Minden. The Backporch Summer Music Series will feature the talents of 12 year old guitarist and vocalist, Matthew Davidson of Shreveport. The Farm, located at 417 East Union in Minden will open it's gates at 6:30pm with the show to begin at 7pm. Admission is $5. Patrons are invited to bring their ice chests and food. While chairs are provided, lawn chairs are also welcomed. "We are so excited to be able to bring Matthew to Minden,"states Leslie Coyle, chairman. "He'll play two sets from 7pm to 9pm." Matthew got his first toy guitar at the age of 3, and he hasn't stopped playing since! He started taking weekly lessons on an acoustic guitar in the second grade and won his first electric guitar in the 2007 James Burton Guitar Showdown. He was one of eight student guitarists selected to play with Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Buddy Flett at their 2009 Artbreak Concert. Matthew placed in the Top 10 in KTAL's "Ark-La-Tex's Got Talent" contest, and he won their online voting contest. He won the Middle School Division of the 2010 Artbreak Talent Show and has been invited to perform at the 2010 Red River Revel.

Matthew's musical taste was largely acquired from listening to his dad's CD collection of music by The Beatles, Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Doobie Brothers, Jimi Hendrix, and Chuck Berry.

Matthew's 3-piece band made their debut on June 25 at the Madison Park El Chico in Shreveport, LA. Matthew has recently played public performances with Robin & the Bluebirds at Mudbug Madness, the T-Bone Walker Blues Fest, the Sportspectrum 5K Firecracker Run, and area restaurants. He has also played at Artbreak, The Naked Bean, the Farmer's Market, Artspace, Christian Services Hospitality House, 516 Texas Street, Captain Shreve High School, Caddo Middle Magnet, South Highlands Elementary School, and at Ellerbe Road Baptist Church, where he plays weekly in the youth band.

Matthew's previous guitar instructors were Russell Newman and Brian Flanagan. His current teachers are Jerry Beach and Brad Kozak. He is currently enrolled in the Caddo Parish Talented Arts Program for Music.

A look back at Pearl Fest...

2010-07-13T13:56:00.003-05:00

A great time was had by many at the first annual Pearl Fest at The Farm in Minden on June 19th. Here are just a few pictures of the wonderful event. Photos by Dana Burrows Denny.

Back Porch Summer Music Series Is Here!

2010-07-02T17:27:00.002-05:00

Join us at The Farm on Saturday, July 3rd from 9pm - 11:30pm and enjoy some great music. "Red, White & Bluegills" is the name and live music by The Bluegills following a special performance by Ben Shirley is the game! Our next outdoor concerts are scheduled for July 17th & 31st. Check here for upcoming details. See you tomorrow night! 417 E. Union in Minden. $5 per person.

Some of the fine musicians to perform at Pearl Fest....

2010-06-17T14:04:00.007-05:00

(BEN JENKINS)
Ben Jenkins, one of Cultural Crossroads Cultured Pearl recipients is also one of the featured musicians at this year’s first annual Pearl Fest. Ben will take the stage this Saturday, June 19^th at 10:50pm prior to the Bluegills. This accomplished musicians hails from Shongaloo and has generated quite a following for his original music. Ben will also be serving as emcee along with Josh Shirley for the afternoon schedule. Nearly two hundred singers, songwriters and musicians will converge on the Farm this weekend while raising money for scholarships. Admission is $10. For details visit www.artsminden.com

(AUBRIE STAHL)

(BRANDON RATCLIFF)

Young musicians and songwriters will dominate the stage during Cultural Crossroads first annual Pearl Fest. The outdoor music festival to be held on the picturesque grounds of the four acre ‘Farm” will include one of the largest gatherings of musicians in recent history. Nearly two hundred singers, songwriters and musicians will be performing while also raising scholarship money for the organization’s Cultured Pearl program.

Aubrie Stahl and Brandon Ratcliff are among the young singer/songwriters to take stage this Saturday. Aubrie is a student at Webster Junior High while Brandon Ratcliff attends Glenbrook. Both young musicians and potential future Cultured Pearl recipients will bring to the stage their original songs. Aubrie will perform at 2pm followed by Brandon at 2:25pm. Also included in the line up of young musicians will be this year’s Cultured Pearl recipient, Caleb Ayers. Caleb will be joined by Braydon Cheatham, Devin Thomas and Coty Haynes as the “Loo Boys.” They will take the stage at 6:55pm. A detailed schedule of performances can be seen on the web at www.artsinmindenblogspot.com.

“This celebration of community, talent and art will also be done in honor of one of our own,” state Elaine Eaton, chairman. We will also be doing this for Beth Watts Bridges.” Special $5 wrist bands embossed with the words “For Beth” are on sale now along with the $10 multicolored wrists bands that will serve as admission to the 1pm-midnight performances slated for this Saturday. Wrist bands can be purchased ahead of time at Blue Moon Java or on the day of Pearl Fest at the Farm. “The yellow $5 wrist bands are for those individuals who are unable to attend Saturday’s event but would like to support our Cultured Pearl program, “ explains Ms. Eaton. “Although anyone is welcomed to purchase and wear one in Beth’s honor this week.”

Pearl Fest will be held on the four acre estate commonly referred to as simply ‘The Farm.’ Located on the corner of East Union and Talton Street, Details about the Pearl Fest, the Farm and Cultural Crossroads can be seen on their website at www.artsinminden.com. Anyone needing more information can contact Elaine Eaton at 318- 208-0006 or elainetravel@yahoo.com or Leslie Coyle at 318 422-9663 or freedom.of.76@hotmail.com or Julie Vogel at 318 286 9476 or jvogel99@yahoo.com.

(THE BLUEGILLS)

One of the hottest young groups around will end the day long outdoor musical festival, Pearl Fest. All from Minden, these young musicians blend together the sounds of reggae and progressive surf rock to make up their unique style of music. The Bluegills are set to perform at 11:15pm on Saturday, June 19^th at Pearl Fest at the Farm. Admission is $10. Wrist bands are on sale now at Blue Moon Java or the day of the concert at the Farm located at 417 East Union. For more detailed information and a full schedule of performances visit www.artsinminden. com. A free concert will be held from 9am until 12N and the gates will reopen at 1pm for the paid portion of Pearl Fest. (Left to right Ethan Anderson, Tyler Michaud, Seth Deloach and Quincy Hicks. )

(CHRISTIAN MUSIC)

Kings Servants of Minden will kick off the first annual Pearl Fest this Saturday morning, June 19^th at the Farm. Band members Tim Greer, Jeff McCormic, Dwayne Cahpman, Debbie and Joe Sumrall, Phil Guin, Robert Jackson, Chris McGarrety and Gary Floyd will bring their southern gospel style of music to Cultural Crossroads’ first annual Pearl Fest. Kings Servants 9am performance during the morning free concert kicks off the all day outdoor musical event. Kings Servants was first established in 1999 with four men from Eastside Missionary Baptist Church. They have now grown to nine. “We all play a part in the ministry we have to make a joyful noise for the Lord and to give Him all honor and glory,” states Gary Floyd.

Pearl Fest free morning concert to run from 9am until 12N will also be in conjunction with Cultural Crossroads’ Farmers Market held every Saturday at the Farm. Other performances for Saturday morning include the New Light Baptist Church adult and children’s choirs, Daniele Evans, ArtBreak’s overall talent winner, The Mayfield Baptist Church choir and the First Pentecostal choir. Ending the free concert at 11:25pm will be the ever-popular all- girls gospel band, the “Glory Gals.”

Chasing Canaan, another gospel fusion band from the Shreveport area will perform Saturday evening at 10:05pm. Missy Wise, Britney Winn, Kaci Kimball, Carrie Mercer, Sarah Duet, Michael Rafferty, Mike Krusleski and Jamie Halpen make up the groups that met and began worshipping together while in college at Centenary. They began as a fundraising group for a trip to Africa and they have been jamming every since. They are currently in their third year of performing.

Aside from providing a venue for one of the largest showings of musicians in recent history, Pearl Fest will also raise money for arts education according to organizers. This music festival will celebrate past and present Cultured Pearls as well as raise scholarship funds for future recipients. Cultural Crossroads, the sponsoring organization awards the Cultured Pearl scholarship to deserving high school seniors in Webster each year. “This celebration of community, talent and art will also be done in honor of one of our own,” state Elaine Eaton, chairman. We will also be doing this for Beth Watts Bridges.” Special $5 wrist bands embossed with the words “For Beth” are on sale now along with the $10 multicolored wrists bands that will serve as admission to the 1pm-midnight performances slated for this Saturday. Wrist bands can be purchased ahead of time at Blue Moon Java or on the day of Pearl Fest at the Farm.

Pearl Fest Music Schedule!

2010-06-08T10:05:00.004-05:00

June 19th at The Farm in Minden (417 E. Union) We'll see you there!

(Music from 9:00am to 12:00 noon will be on the main stage in the pavilion)

9:00am-9:40am Kings Servant’s
9:50am-10:30am New Light Baptist: Adult and Children’s Choirs
10:35am-10:55am Daniele’ Evans
11:00am-11:15am Mayflower Baptist Church Choir Bertha
11:20am-11:40am First United Pentecostal Church Choir
11:45am-12:00pm Lacy Cavalier

12PM-1PM CLOSED

Gate closes at 12 noon and reopens at 12:45pm $10 admission charged after 12 noon.

(Music from 1:00pm to 12:00 midnight will be on the main stage in the pavilion and on the house porch)

Main 1:00pm-2:00pm Dorcheat Bottom Band (Blues and Classic Rock)
Porch 2:00pm-2:20pm Aubrie Stahl (Singer/Songwriter)
Porch 2:25pm-2:45pm Brandon Ratcliff (Singer/Songwriter)
Porch 2:50pm-3:10pm Erick Coleman (Jazz Trio)
Main 3:15pm-4:00pm Grant Terry (Pop/Rock)
Porch 4:05pm-4:15pm Jennifer and Joshua (Guitar and Vocals)
Porch 4:20pm-4:40pm Jason Quarles (Singer/Songwriter)
Porch 4:45pm-5:05pm Ben Shirley (Singer/Songwriter)
Main 5:10pm-6:00pm Hard Times (Blues and Southern Rock)
Porch 6:05pm-6:25pm Kaerington Wilson Live (Gospel and Rhythm and Blues)
Porch 6:30pm-6:50pm DeWayne Shyne (Keyboard and Vocalist)
Main 6:55pm-7:10pm The Loo Boys (Country and Gospel)
Porch 7:15pm-7:30pm Young Musicians (Vocalist and Violinist)
Porch 7:35pm-8:00pm John DeChiaro (Classical Guitarist)
Main 8:00pm-8:30pm Cultured Pearls and Memorial
Main 8:35pm-9:30pm The Howlies with Special Guest Keenan Clinton (Blues)
Porch 9:35pm-10:00pm Gold Zombie (Electronic Rock and Roll)
Main 10:05-10:45pm Chasing Canaan (Christian)
Porch 10:50pm-11:10pm Ben Jenkins (Singer/Songwriter)
Main 11:15pm-12m The Blue Gills (Alternative Rock)

Times may vary slightly from schedule.

The Farm in the "Press"!

2010-06-04T08:11:00.003-05:00

We had some great exposure in the recent past from our area newspapers. See the great coverage below:

Minden Press-Herald: http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19810&Itemid=1

http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=20364&Itemid=57

The Shreveport Times: http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20100531/LIVING/5310304/Residents-given-opportunity-to-explore-enjoy-The-Farm
Photo Gallery: http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=D9&Dato=20100530&Kategori=NEWS&Lopenr=5300806&Ref=PH

Save the Date!! June 19th at the Farm!!

2010-05-21T07:33:00.003-05:00

Musical talent from across the region have been invited to the first annual Pearl Fest on Saturday, June 19^th at the Moess Center for the Arts & City Farm in Minden. Pearl Fest is an outdoor celebration of musical talent from Louisiana. Aside from providing a venue for one of the largest showings of musicians in recent history, it will also raise money for arts education according to organizers. This music festival will celebrate past and present Cultured Pearls as well as raise scholarship funds for future recipients. Cultural Crossroads, the sponsoring organization awards the Cultured Pearl scholarship to deserving high school seniors in Webster each year. The Cultured Pearl award was established in 1995 to honor the late State Representative Everett G. Doerge. Dr. Doerge supported the arts and supported the efforts of Cultural Crossroads. The scholarship that bears his name has been awarded every year to a senior in Webster Parish seeking to pursue a higher education in the arts for the past fifteen years.

“This music festival will feature a variety of musical talent from classically trained musicians to original songwriters,” states Elaine Eaton, chairman and past recipient of the Cultured Pearl. “This celebration of community, talent and art will also be done in honor of one of our own. We will also be doing this for Beth Watts Bridges.“ Beth, a Cultured Pearl recipient who lost her life to cancer was best known locally for her portrayal of Dorothy in the outdoor production of the “Wizard of Oz.” This special arrangement of the famed musical gained statewide attention for having involved more than 300 local children. It would come to be the largest outdoor production in Minden’s history. “This will be a sort of reunion for all Cultured Pearls and a time to remember one of our own,” Eaton adds. Admission to the all day event will be $10 per person, however a special free concert is being planned for that morning in conjunction with the organization’s traditional Farmers Market. Details and a schedule of musicians will be announced later in the month.

Musicians performing will be donating their time and will have an opportunity to sell their own merchandise with no commissions collected by the organization. Pearl Fest will be held on the four acre estate commonly referred to as simply ‘The Farm.’ Located on the corner of East Union and Talton Street, The Farm is also host to the annual Spring Arts Festival and Moon Over Minden. Details about the Pearl Fest, the Farm and Cultural Crossroads can be seen on their website at www.artsinminden.com. Anyone needing more information can contact Elaine Eaton at 318- 208-0008 or elainetravel@yahoo.com or Leslie Coyle at 318 422-9663 or freedom.of.76.hotmail.com or Julie Vogel at 318 286 9476 or jvogel99@yahoo.com.

Marketing and publicity efforts are being underwritten by an advertising grant from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Article in the Minden Press-Herald:

http://www.nwlanews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=20117&Itemid=57

Summer Art Camp Application

2010-05-12T08:17:00.002-05:00

You can now fill out and submit the Summer Art Camp application for your child or children. This is a great annual summer activity for kids aged 6 to 16. Dates are June 7-11 from 9:00am - 12 Noon for children aged 11-16. Dates are Or June 21-25 from 9:00am - 12 Noon for children aged 6-10. Enrollment is $100 per child which also includes a FREE camp shirt, art supplies and a mid-morning snack and drink. The Summer Art Camps will be held at The Farm located at the corner of E. Union and Talton St. (417 E. Union) in Minden. The form and other information can be viewed at http://artsinminden.com/forms/CC-ArtCamp-Flyer.pdf. Keep an eye on this blog for any updates and other information regarding all of Cultural Crossroads activities.

Tues. & Thurs. 9am-2pm -- Come Visit!

2010-05-05T12:24:00.006-05:00

Come by for a sack lunch, picnic or just a plain visit to see what's been going on at The Farm! Flowers and plants are in bloom and everything is green. This place was built for the community to enjoy. Show your support and stop by on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 9am-2pm. And don't forget the Farmer's Market every Saturday morning. You can see more pictures of The Farm property at www.artsinminden.com photo gallery. We even have our new beautiful bathrooms now to make your visit even more enjoyable. We'll see you soon at 417 E. Union (corner of E. Union and Talton St.) in Minden!

Webster Jr. High Ag Students Revisit

2010-05-05T12:15:00.004-05:00

Webster Jr. High Ag students came again this week to work on the community garden. They started an organic compost pile using weeds and sticks from the grounds and fresh horse manure from a neighbor of The Farm. Garden walkways were created and more tilling was done. Come out to The Farm Tuesdays and Thursdays any time from 9am - 2pm to see all the progress and the property in bloom!

Webster Jr. High Ag Students Work Their Green Thumbs!

2010-04-28T21:49:00.007-05:00

The Webster Jr. Hi. Ag class planted a community garden at the Farm. This outreach program sponsored and funded by Cultural Crossroads will engage junior high students enrolled in Webster's ag class. The students prepared the soil and planted the nearly 100 tomato plants this past week.

2010 Spring Arts Festival Talent Show Winners!

2010-04-28T10:19:00.002-05:00

Elementary Division
1st Place--Kenzie Ellington, Harper Elementary
2nd Place--Bonnie Haynie, Central Elementary
3rd Place--Allyson Doyle, Bonnie Haynie and Madison Couch, Central Elementary

Middle/Jr. High School Division
1st Place--Kelly Mc Farland, Doyline
2nd Place--Aubrie Stahl, Webster Jr. High
3rd Place--Collin Jenkins, Shongaloo

High School Division
1st Place--Brandon Ratcliff, Glenbrook
2nd Place--"Women of Praise", Lakeside
2nd Place--Bria Wiese, Sarepta
2nd Place--Derek Rick, Shongaloo
3rd Place--Cody Haynes, Shongaloo

"Overall Most Talented School in the Parish" --Glenbrook
"Overll Most Talented Student in the Parish" --Brandon Ratcliff, Glenbrook
"Most Talented Elementary" --Glenbrook
"Most Talented Middle/Jr High"--Webster Jr. High
"Most Taltented High School" --Minden High

"Most Supportive School" --Glenbrook