Date: 3-5-25 Name: Serenity E Legrady Address: Winnfield, LA Race: Black Sex: Female Age: 27 Charge: Simple burglary
Date: 3-5-25 Name: Emma Wise Address: Dodson, LA Race: White Sex: Female Age: 39 Charge: Theft
Date: 3-5-25 Name: Kevin L Humphrey Address: Homeless Race: White Sex: Male Age: 30 Charge: Direct contempt of court (x3)
Date: 3-5-25 Name: Stylen Wise Address: Homeless Race: White Sex: Male Age: 22 Charge: Direct contempt of court
Date: 3-6-25 Name: Tyiskia Holmes Address: Winnfield, LA Race: Black Sex: Female Age: 41 Charge: Criminal conspiracy (armed robbery)
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation or arrested and charged with a crime have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
At approximately 4:45 a.m. on February 28, Winn Parish Sheriff deputies conducted a traffic stop on LA 34 for failure to dim headlights. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Keneen Cravens of Winnfield, was found to be operating the vehicle with a suspended driver’s license and had several outstanding warrants.
Cravens was arrested for Driving Under Suspension (DUS) and the outstanding warrants. During an inventory of the vehicle, deputies discovered a handgun inside a black bag, along with a plastic baggie containing suspected methamphetamine, a plastic baggie containing suspected fentanyl, one pill believed to be alprazolam, and various items typically associated with drug use. A second firearm was also located inside the vehicle’s glove compartment.
As a result of the investigation, Cravens was arrested and booked into the Winn Parish Detention Center on the following charges:
Failure to Dim Headlights
Driving Under Suspension
Failure to Appear Warrants
Possession of Methamphetamine
Possession of Fentanyl
Possession of Alprazolam
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon
Possession of a Firearm with Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS)
Sheriff McAllister expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication of his deputies in combating the use and distribution of illegal narcotics within the parish. “The men and women of the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office are committed to making our parish a safer place to live and raise families,” he stated.
Reminder: All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Winn Parish School Board has taken what Supt. Al Simmons termed “the first step” towards the possibility of calling a fall tax election for the Calvin School District and soon, perhaps, in Winnfield’s.
In their March 3 session, members approved a resolution which, following state law, contains the barest of outlines that sets things in motion, meeting deadlines, to get general obligation bond issues on the ballot, if that is the direction they decide to go. Simmons advised members that currently they don’t know for sure, don’t know how much they need to borrow, don’t know how many tax mills to ask.
“Our needs are great. Our resources are limited.” He pointed out that board plans would need to look towards education of our children for the next 20 years. Business manager Jennifer Vidrine read the brief resolution including a public hearing date of May 5.
While Monday’s action did move ahead on the Calvin District, that of the Winnfield District was delayed. “The board has the opportunity to create a Consolidated School District 12, combining the Winnfield and Atlanta districts,” said the superintendent.
He stressed that this action in itself would not levy a tax on any district or impose any existing tax from one district to the other. He confirmed that if this is done, Atlanta would vote in the fall election, if called. The school district, as well, has no relationship to an election voting district.
In a roll call vote, all members agreed to the resolution to create the consolidated district. Harry Scott was absent.
In discussion, members decried the report that a “sports complex” might be in their plans, some saying they hadn’t heard that mentioned. There are no solid plans at the time as the board considers issues of maintenance and updates of aging buildings including the WSHS gymnasium.
Once a plan is in hand, Michelle Carpenter observed that “we as School Board members are going to have to get out there and promote this. Put it out there.” Lacy McManus agreed that members must “get out and tell the public what this is about.”
WPS math teacher and 4-H sponsor Susi Jones with club member Keegan O’Brian (secretary), Chloe Sierra (president) and Cash Godwin (reporter).
A confident presentation by diminutive Chloe Sierra, president of the Winnfield Primary School 4-H Club before the table of Winn Parish School Board members Monday night spoke well of that youth development program, as Principal James King looked on.
WPS was in the board’s featured agenda “Spotlight” for their March meeting and King used the opportunity to display programs and teachers there. Also featured were the Garden Club and Pre-K teacher Kim Vines.
Accompanied by club secretary Keegan O’Brian, reporter Cash Godwin and 4th grade math teacher and 4-H sponsor Susi Jones, Chloe explained they were sharing the “incredible impact of our 4-H Club on students and the community.”
The board heard that 4-H is a “youth development program that empowers young people to reach their full potential, working alongside adult mentors, building skills in leadership, citizenship and life skills. Our motto is ‘To Make the Best Better.’”
This year the WPS 4-H has collected and donated over 2,500 items to the local Food Pantry, a support tradition they have maintained over the past 12 years. “We have the greatest number of students participating in this community service activity. For many of us, this is our first opportunity in school to demonstrate leadership and communication skills outside of the traditional classroom.”
King also recognized Pre-K teacher Kim Vines, telling the board that he wants them to see first-hand what is happening at WPS. Mrs. Vines was recently evaluated, not in-house but by an outside agency, he emphasized, “and she got the highest score you can get. Blew it out of the water.”
Her comments were brief as she thanked King for his observation. “This is a great school. It’s a great parish.”
King pointed out that since the Primary School offers no sports programs, they work to broaden student opportunities through school activities. Another club doing this is the Garden Club and he introduced an enthusiastic Kaycie Smith to explain that program.
She told the board that some 75 children are hands-on involved in working with plants from seed to the table and the responsibilities in doing so yields surprising results. You can imagine that many children don’t like to eat greens but when they’ve worked with them and watered them and watched them grow, they actually enjoy them.
The young gardeners have tried their hands at herbs and vegetables, some with success, some not so much, including tomatoes, squash, basil, watermelon, okra, zucchini, and gourds. They’ve sprouted seeds and worked to create their own compost to add to their garden beds. They even had the opportunity to view soilless, water-based hydroponics.
Mrs. Smith said their 4-H program partners with the LSU AgCenter as well as the Food Bank for lesson. Field trips are also scheduled to broaden student experiences.
Chloe Sierra makes her presentation with fellow 4-Hers Cash Godwin and Keegan O’Brian. In background, also recognized that night, are Kim Vines and Kaycie Smith.
Uncle Earl’s Hog Dog Trials, an unusual event that has annually brought hundreds of folks (and dogs) from across the country to Winn since 1994, is less than two weeks away from filling the fairgrounds with action.
The 30th annual “Uncle Earl’s” is set to run from Monday, March 17, through Sunday, March 23. The types of competition will vary from day to day, with Puppy Bay and Old & Young on Monday. Tuesday will be more continuation of Old & Young while Wednesday and Thursday will be One Dog competition. Two Dog competition will also begin on Thursday and continue Friday. The Two Dog finals will be Saturday. Sunday will feature Youth Bay and Best of the Best.
Entry fee to watch a day’s action is $10.
This annual Hog-Baying event is traditionally held the third week of March at the Winn Parish Fairgrounds where visitors converge to camp in tents and trailers for the duration. The trials were named for Winn native Earl K. “Uncle Earl” Long who liked to hog hunt. He served three times as Louisiana’s governor and was elected to Congress but died before taking office.
So what are the judges looking for as the dogs face off the hogs in the rodeo arena? Rules may clarify:
1. The dog must never lose eye contact with the hog. For example, looking away or looping out bring a deduction each time. If the hog causes the dog to lose eye contact, it will not be deducted.
2. The dog is expected to contain (hold the hog at bay) the entire run. For example if the hog is moving, the dog must stop it and once the hog is stopped the dog must be within 5 feet of the hog. Moving includes all movements, running or walking, in any direction.
3. The dog cannot be over aggressive. Meaning if the hog is stationary the dog should not touch it no matter the location of the hog in relation to the fence.
4. The dog is expected to bark the entire time. In the event of the dog not barking longer than 5 seconds it will be docked. This will include the first 5 seconds of the bay. (Dog does not have to bark while stopping the hog).
5. If a dog holds the hog for 5 seconds after the hog stops, it will be deemed a “catch” and the dog will be disqualified. If the count starts and the hog starts running again, the count will not stop until the dog lets go or it is disqualified.
6. There will only be one handler per dog. Whoever is talking to the dog at the beginning is the only one allowed to talk the entire run (one for each dog).
7. Handler may not come in contact with their dog once it’s been released. If a handler breaks this rule, they will be disqualified on that run
The 2025 selections list for the Hall of Fame includes two local individuals, Carolyn Reber Phillips and James Maxwell “Max” Kelley.” With the Hall’s induction banquet here approaching April 5, the Journal today spotlights Mrs. Phillips who was the museum’s first executive director, credited with preserving Louisiana’s rich political heritage and growing the museum into a state treasure.
Carolyn Phillips of Pawhuska, OK, arrived at the Cooperative Extension Service in Winnfield in springtime 1962, armed with her BS degree in Home Economics from Oklahoma State University, two years’ experience in the field (Kansas) and a driving desire for community involvement to help Winn grow.
Her dedicated work at the Extension Service office for 31 years with residents young and old changed lives. Her responsibilities grew until she became the Parish Administrator Home Economist. Her community involvement wasn’t confined to her courthouse office. In 1980, she collaborated with a small group of volunteers determined to rekindle the Louisiana Forest Festival which had died in 1956. Her tireless efforts of recruiting more volunteers and making network contacts (“I twisted many arms”) built the festival to an exciting three-day happening with events representing all aspects of the timber industry. Her pride was Timber Sports that grew to attract national competitors.
When she retired in 1993, Carolyn was just getting started. Under the mayorship of Hall Inductee Deano Thornton, she wore four hats as director of the fledgling museum as well as the director of the Main Street program, coordinator of economic development and tourism. “Everywhere I went, I promoted the museum. It’s one of a kind. If you don’t talk about the museum, how are people going to know? Me, Mike Tinnerello, Max Kelley and Deano, we worked together.”
The old L&A Depot had been painstakingly hauled across town, set up in its present Main Street location and rebuilt to serve as the Political Museum, opening just in time to commemorate Huey P. Long’s 100th anniversary in August 1993. Initially it was small, just one room to showcase memorabilia of the 11 inductees honored at that first Hall of Fame Banquet in the Forestry Building. Carolyn has worked with the committee through the years since to assist the inductees with their memorabilia organization and display. This meant professional construction of dozens of display cabinets to showcase the exhibits. The 2025 induction brings the Hall’s total to 237 honorees.
She recalls the inaugural year when Hall Inductee Gov. Jimmie Davis declared that he “thought he was in heaven” due to Carolyn’s menu selection at that banquet: pork loin, greens, black eyed peas, cornbread and banana pudding. “Best banquet meal I ever tasted.”
Carolyn brought that same passion to her role as Main Street director, even serving as president of the Main Street Managers Association for six years. At the urging of Hall Inductee Gov. Kathleen Babineau Blanco, she coordinated six statewide bike rides. “Tourism? That’s tourism. The museum is tourism, bringing in people from across the country and even international visitors.”
On March 1 at around 5:30 pm, Det. Brian Goody of the Winnfield Police Department noticed a female subject waving him down. As he turned into the parking lot of Smoker’s Paradise, the subject got into her car and left at a high speed.
Det. Goody followed and observed the vehicle making multiple lane changes and passing in the turning lane at a high rate of speed causing a dangerous situation for other drivers. He attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver would not stop, and a second unit marked for patrol driven by Sgt. Ashley Carpenter joined the pursuit.
Going south on U.S. Hwy 167, speeds were reported at well over 100 miles per hour. As units tried to box the vehicle in the travel lane, the driver turned and proceeded back into town at speeds reported to be over 110 mph. While the pursuit continued, Sgt. Carpenter recognized the driver and the car as being a rental car reported stolen earlier in the morning from Ruston. The pursuit ended on Robinson Street where the driver stopped at a residence. There she was taken into custody. During the arrest, the assailant resisted officer’s attempts to subdue her and she kicked Det. Goody.
Marissa Sonnier, 38, from Ruston, and formerly of Winnfield, was arrested and charged with aggravated flight from an officer, resisting an officer with physical violence, and failure to appear on an outstanding warrant. While being checked medically prior to booking, she made the statement to officers that she “had fun drag racing and “It was a rush.” She was booked into the city jail and currently awaits a 72-hour hearing by the city Judge. Bond had not been set.
Winn Parish Sheriff Josh McAllister congratulated four of the local office’s communication dispatchers for completing a comprehensive 40-hour training course over several weeks. “This training will greatly enhance the quality of emergency response for both the citizens of Winn Parish and our first responders,” he said.
Sheriff McAllister added, “Communication dispatchers are often the first point of contact during an emergency. It’s essential that they can quickly gather accurate information, speak with confidence, and provide compassionate support to the public.
“Special recognition goes out to Jan Brown, Ashley Langley, Meagan Harris, and Kim Triplett for their dedication and hard work throughout the training process. We are proud of their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.”
From left to right: Kim Triplett and Meagan Harris.
Six C Fabrication has been recognized with LWCC’s Safest 70 Award for 2024. Established in 2008, the award honors LWCC policyholders who exemplify commitment to workplace safety. Six C is proud to be recognized for fostering a culture of wellbeing in Louisiana’s workforce by establishing a safe work environment.
“Nothing we do – no production target, no financial goal, no deadline – is more important than making safe choices.” – CEO Robin Cummings Companies included in the Safest 70 seek ways to proactively improve workplace safety and are quick to react and respond when potential safety hazards are identified, often in partnership with LWCC’s Safety Services team.
“At LWCC, our purpose is to help Louisiana thrive, and the efforts of these award recipients embody that,” said Kristin W. Wall, LWCC’s President and CEO. “By prioritizing workplace safety, they are not only protecting their employees, but also driving positive change that improves outcomes for businesses, families, and communities across our state. We are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
LWCC, headquartered in Baton Rouge, champions this state. “Louisiana Loyal,” a movement they launched and lead, elevates Louisiana by bettering the state one business and one worker at a time.
The Winn Art Council is opening a major display of local artists this weekend at the A. Lenard Allen Building in downtown Winnfield as part of ongoing efforts to refocus community attention on Main Street.
The exhibition will begin Friday, March 7, from 5 until 7 p.m., continuing Saturday, March 9, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and again on Monday, March 10, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Additional viewings will also be available through appointment only by calling 318-332-4713.
“There will be at least 56 works of art on display this weekend,” said chairman Rhonda Pharr. “The Winn Art Council plans to continue this as a series of art gallery showings, changing both artists and themes in each display. The theme of our current exhibit is Nature.”
She explained that the Council’s goal is twofold, first working to showcase the talents of local and regional artists. The second goal is to provide shoppers with an additional reason to rediscover Main Street.
The exhibition is open free to the public. Some of the artworks will be available for purchase.
Byron Keller, the recently appointed head football coach of the Winnfield Tigers, graced the Winnfield Rotary Club with his presence as a speaker at their meeting on February 19 at the invitation of Rotarian of the Day, Don Causey. Also honoring Rotary as their guest that day was Chase Bartlett, principal of WSHS. Keller has a 20-year history as an educator and has been a football coach almost that long as well.
Keller hails from St. James Parish, an area renowned for its rich football heritage. Keller naturally gravitated towards the sport of football in this environment and spent his formative years playing football at the local school, where he developed a deep love for the game.
To further his passion for sports and education, Keller pursued a teaching degree at Northwestern State University (NSU). Upon graduation, he returned to his roots, taking up a teaching position in St. James Parish. For 12 years, he dedicated himself to educating young minds, while simultaneously coaching football for nine of those years.
Keller’s journey took a significant turn when his wife, a native of Natchitoches, expressed a desire to move back to her hometown. Embracing this opportunity for a fresh start, Keller secured a position with Winnfield for the 2020-2021 school year. However, this period proved to be exceptionally challenging, as it coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. The absence of football and the numerous difficulties faced by the school system made it a tough year for everyone involved.
Following this stint, he continued his coaching career at Many High School and Red River High School.
Keller’s return to Winn Parish as the head football coach of the Winnfield Tigers marks a milestone in his career. His enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team were obvious. Under his guidance, the team is currently focused on building strength in the weight room and learning about proper nutrition. Keller’s holistic approach to coaching emphasizes not only physical fitness but also the overall well-being of his players.
In addition to working with the high school team, Keller collaborates closely with the middle school coach. He is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for the eighth graders as they prepare to join the high school team in May for spring training.
Keller’s coaching philosophy is grounded in what he calls the Three F’s—Faith, Family, and Football. He places a strong emphasis on faith, encouraging his players to develop a sense of spirituality and moral integrity. Through his guidance, he instills good character and values, fostering an environment where players can grow as individuals both on and off the field.
Keller’s underscores also underscores importance of family bonds and good morals, urging his players to excel not only in sports but also in academics and community service. He does his best to ensure that his players become well-rounded individuals who will contribute positively to society.
As for football, Keller’s approach is characterized by a commitment to teamwork and good sportsmanship.
While research is ongoing, some studies suggest a potential link between time changes, like Daylight Savings Time (DST), and a slight increase in domestic violence incidents primarily due to disruption in sleep patterns and stress caused by the transition, which can exacerbate existing tensions within abusive relationships.
Daylight Savings Times begins this Sunday, March 9. Key points about the connection, says Annie Goods, Winn DART Advocate, include:
*Sleep Disruption: Switching between Standard Time and DST can disrupt sleep cycles, leading to irritability and heightened emotional reactivity which could trigger abusive behavior in individuals already prone to violence.
*Stress and Anxiety: The transition period can cause stress and anxiety in some people, which can further contribute to increased tension in already strained relationships.
*Changes in routine: Time changes can disrupt daily routines, leading to increased friction and conflict in households where abuse is present.
Limited research: While studies have indicated a possible link, more research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between time changes and domestic violence.
Time changes are not considered a primary cause as many other factors like power dynamics, mental health issues, financial issues, and substance abuse play significant roles. The impact of time changes can vary depending on the individual and their personal circumstances. Recognizing the potential impact of time changes on domestic violence can help individuals and organizations take proactive measures to support victims during these transition periods.
The Village of Goldonna is getting ready to host another one of their famous Fish Fry Fundraisers on March 16, 2025 at the Town Hall. The cost of the fish plate will be $10.00 and will include fish, fries, hushpuppies and a dessert. The volunteers will begin serving at 10:30. All proceeds will benefit the upkeep and repairs of Goldonna Cemetery.
Goldonna Elementary Junior High School continues to collect gently worn uniform tops and bottoms of all sizes to replenish their uniform closet that benefits children in need. They are requesting smaller size bottoms for boys and girls Pre-K to 2nd grade. Donations can be dropped off at the school or you can call the office at 318-727-9449 to arrange pick up. Attendance recovery is held every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00 until 5:00, excluding holidays.
The Goldonna Dusty Cut League proceeds with preparations to have a successful season.Tara Ayres, the local coordinator, is seeking players for the 2025 Summer League. The sign up fee is $35.00 for one player, $25 each for two players and $15 for each additional child. The coordinator is collecting names, ages, shirt sizes and parental contact information. For more information or if you would like to make a donation, Tara Ayres can be reached at 318-471-8557.
The date for the Goldonna Baptist Church Annual Skeet Shoot is quickly approaching. It will be held on March 22, 2025 at the 4H Shooting Range in Winnfield, Louisiana. The event will offer five shooting locations and one thrower location. Shooters will supply their own ammo and safety gear. The skeet shoot will have three divisions. Junior (17 and younger), a Ladies division and Senior division.The entry fee is $25 and all proceeds will be benefiting the Operation Children Child efforts of the church. For more information, donations and sponsorships, please call Pastor Ben Dupree at 318-663-0302.
Date: 2-25-25 Name: Andre Smith Address: Winn Parish Detention Center Race: Black Sex: Male Age: 42 Charge: Battery of corrections officer
Date: 2-26-25 Name: Johnny R Worsham Address: Tullos, LA Race: White Sex: Male Age: 60 Charge: Failure to appear
Date: 2-27-25 Name: Cassie E Fredien Address: Winnfield, LA Race: White Sex: Female Age: 38 Charge: Theft (felony) Date: 2-27-25 Name: James R Jones Address: Quitman, LA Race: Black Sex: Male Age: 48 Charge: Possession schedule 1 with intent to distribute, Stop Sign, Possession of paraphernalia
Date: 2-28-25 Name: Angela M Rogers Address: Shreveport, LA Race: White Sex: Female Age: 39 Charge: Fugitive from Caddo parish
Date: 2-28-25 Name: Robert D Abbott Address: Shreveport, LA Race: White Sex: Male Age: 38 Charge: Fugitive from Caddo parish
Date: 3-2-25 Name: Juan Carlos Aredando Address: Winnfield, LA Race: H Sex: M Age: 38 Charge: First DWI, Careless operation
This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named or shown in photographs or video as suspects in a criminal investigation or arrested and charged with a crime have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
