Winn Main Street, a local organization with state and national ties, has announced its latest project as part of efforts to build Winnfield’s downtown back to its former strength and appeal.  That project is a grant-funded mural underway that drivers can view from the five-lane’s railroad bridge opposite the post office.

“Cities and towns across the state have come to see that a prosperous, sustainable community is only as healthy as its core,” according to Main Street Louisiana.  Winnfield was involved with the Main Street program in the 1980s and has become actively engaged again over the past year.  It takes in the entirety of Main Street, extending to encompass the library, hospital, Trinity Community Healthcare Center and back down to Home Hardware.

One might call this a group of (mostly) young business people striving to bring back some of downtown’s old-fashioned appeal and values.  “This is a nationally recognized program.  The mayor and council have helped us jumpstart, getting us on our feet.”

When asked about the goals, responses from around the table were encouraging:  Brighten up the downtown.  Remember when times were simpler.  Make a more positive impact.  Revitalize the area.  Create an environment where families will enjoy walking the streets once again. We’ve had some small events but the biggest splash so far is this mural.

That mural is being created by a professional crew on the north wall of Lorraine & Co. Hair Salon.  Committee director Shannan Chevallier wrote the Pledge 10 grant, funded by Jonesboro State Bank.  The photo with this article shows the earliest stages of what is planned to resemble an old time postcard.  

“It’s a big win for us.  We’ll want visitors to stop in our town to take their picture in front of the mural.”

An earlier accomplishment of Winn Main Street was the vibrant family activities area painted in the dead-end street in front of the post office, “The Stump,” an area designated for food trucks, recreation and public gathering. 

Winn Main Streets Mission Statement:  “Through revitalization of our historic downtown, we will promote business development, tourism and support cultural diversity. Our mission is to cultivate partnerships between community members and local businesses. We will provide quality of life opportunities for all citizens.”

Board members: President – Karly Stewart, Vice President – Carolyn Phillips, Secretary – Erikia Breda, Treasurer – Brent Chandler, Bridgett Bartlett, Nikki Hanson, Liz McManus, Tyler Pyles, Stacey Fields, and Shannan Chevallier – Director, 

”Main Street stands behind our business leaders.  We want to be supportive.  Anyone who’d like to join us in our efforts or just know more about Winn Main Street, contact us at info@winnmainstreet.com .”

Craig Caskey, director of Northwestern State University’s Advanced Manufacturing Program, spoke to Winnfield Rotarians on July 16 about the university’s Associate of Science degree in engineering technology with a concentration in advanced manufacturing.

Caskey, an instructor in NSU’s engineering technology program, said the new associate degree program is just getting started and has already met its initial enrollment goal of 10 students for the first semester.

The program was created in response to industry demand, as manufacturers and educators recognize the need for more skilled workers to replace a retiring workforce. It is designed to prepare students for careers in manufacturing in the shortest time possible.

In addition to automation, technical and technological skills, the curriculum emphasizes what were once called “soft skills,” now identified as essential. These include critical thinking, problem solving, preventive maintenance, continuous improvement strategies, job search skills and interpersonal communication. Students will also gain hands-on experience in NSU’s machine shop and manufacturing lab before entering the workforce.

Students will spend the first two semesters in the classroom. During the second semester, they will be matched with an industrial partner for paid, full-time summer training. They will then continue working three days a week for pay during the final two semesters. The program’s goal is to place graduates in permanent positions with participating manufacturers.

Companies already committed to the program include International Paper, Alliance Compressors, Boise Cascade, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, CLECO, RoyOMartin and Weyerhaeuser.

Judge Anastasia Wiley and Families in Need of Services (FINS) Officer Aleta Hoffman were guest speakers at the July 22 meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Winnfield, where they spoke about the FINS program and its impact on local families and schools.

Judge Wiley opened the program by recalling advice she received from longtime community leader Etoy Ashley, who encouraged her to “help the children.” That advice, she said, has remained central to her work on the bench.

She introduced Hoffman, who has served as the parish’s FINS officer for just over a year. The FINS office, located in the parish health unit building, works with children and families through both legal and voluntary processes to prevent juvenile delinquency and address unsafe or unhealthy home environments.

FINS cases generally fall into three categories: juvenile delinquents, at-risk children who need intervention before delinquency, and children in need of care due to neglect or abuse.

The FINS system became a legal process in Louisiana on July 1, 1994, with the passage of Title 7 of the Children’s Code. The program seeks to identify harmful behaviors by a child or family members that may require court intervention or support services. Formal FINS involves court action, while informal FINS includes voluntary meetings and needs assessments.

Community members—including neighbors, teachers and church leaders—can make referrals. FINS cases typically last six months but can be extended up to a year.

Hoffman reported that of the 63 referrals in the parish last year, 58 were related to truancy. Under Louisiana law, five or more unexcused absences in a semester is considered truancy. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of school days in a year, roughly six weeks.

Judge Wiley emphasized the connection between truancy and incarceration, noting that many individuals currently in prison dropped out of school around the ninth grade.

Winn Parish currently has no designated truancy officer, but Bob Jordan with the School Board serves as the liaison with FINS. One of the challenges Hoffman noted is inconsistency in how the parish’s five schools handle truancy. She said improving consistency is a key goal for the upcoming school year.

The statewide truancy rate for the 2023-24 school year was 41.76%, while Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice John Weimer’s independent research showed a higher rate of 52.5%. In Winn Parish, the truancy rate was 50.33%. The state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has set a goal of reducing truancy rates by 2% annually.

Hoffman said progress has been made, particularly in cooperation between schools and parental accountability. One new measure is having a parish deputy deliver letters to parents after a referral is made. These letters include a scheduled appointment and a warning that failure to appear may result in arrest—an approach that has led to increased cooperation.

Judge Wiley also noted that the Winn Parish Police Jury is in the process of establishing a Children and Youth Planning Board.

Kiwanis members said the presentation shed light on a little-known program that plays a vital role in the lives of local children and families.

Zion Hill Baptist Church will welcome children ages 4 to 12 for a one-day “Back to Bible School” event on Friday, Aug. 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The day will include fun, lunch, and faith-based lessons focused on the ABCs of becoming a Christian and how to share faith with friends. Attendees are encouraged to bring a swimsuit and towel for outdoor activities. Registration is open online, please follow the link provided below. 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1kzl21s6cOA05sg50kCKwv0vBdOy-fLuLrd8-RD9JDSI/edit?usp=drivesdk

Natchitoches, LA — The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Natchitoches proudly welcomed State Representative Gabe Firment for an in-depth tour of the Center this week. During his visit, Rep. Firment met with staff and volunteers, gaining firsthand insight into the life-affirming work the Center provides to women, children, and families throughout the region.

Rep. Firment was introduced to WRC’s full suite of services, including pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, parenting education, and material assistance. He observed the Rose Long Educational Center and the Little Rose Boutique, which adds a confidential education space and a boutique offering diapers, formula, baby food, clothing, and essential baby supplies. 

Executive Director Nicole Woods emphasized the importance of Rep. Firment’s visit: “Representative Firment’s visit shines a light on the vital services we provide and underscores the continued need for both community and legislative support to reach more families. He has been a strong advocate for maternal wellness centers, dedicating his efforts both in Baton Rouge and throughout his district.”

Founded in 1989, the Women’s Resource Center remains committed to its mission of walking alongside women with truth, grace, and practical support. In June 2025, WRC postured itself as a recognized Maternal Wellness Center, strengthening its capacity to safeguard maternal and infant health.  Firment’s support of the Maternal Wellness Center Tax Credit demonstrates his commitment to strengthening resources for women and families by encouraging community investment in life-affirming care.

The Women’s Resource Center is a Christ-centered nonprofit providing free, confidential support to women navigating pregnancy and early motherhood. Services include pregnancy testing, options counseling, prenatal and parenting education, material aid, and community referrals.  All women, regardless of income or insurance status, are offered free, confidential services at WRC, including pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, education, emotional support, and access to essential baby items.

Pictured left to right are: State Representative Gabe Firment, WRC Director Nicole Woods, WRC Program Manager Sandy Keller and WRC Office Manager Brandi Kay.

Contact:
K. Nicole Woods, Executive Director
Women’s Resource Center
107 North Drive
318-357-8888
director@wrcnatchitoches.org

By: David Peddy 

John Thomas Peddy

Born: 6/30/25

Time: 3:16pm

Weight: 6 lbs 13oz

I took a few days off from sending devotionals to welcome my second son into the world. We named John Thomas after my father and my father in law. He got both of their first names. My wife and I agree we hope he carries the good traits from our fathers, because both of those men are top tier, solid as a rock, God loving men. They both have served the kingdom and still do today, helping others and sharing Christ. So we named JT with expectations. Expectations to be like his grandfathers and to honor them by carrying their names well. He is also named after the disciples John (the one who Jesus loved) and Thomas (the one who doubted).

John Thomas was born at 3:16pm. It didn’t take long for us to put his name with one of the most famous scriptures of the Bible. John 3:16. This is how I have it memorized:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him, shall not perish, but will have everlasting life.”

I’m not sure which translation this is, but it’s remained with me since I learned it as a child. John 3:16 is the gospel wrapped up in one verse: God loves us, He sent His son to die for us. If we believe in Him, we will live eternally in heaven. It’s the mic drop of scriptures.

John Thomas weighed 6lbs 13oz at birth. John 6:13 is the last scripture in the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand. “So they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from the five barley loaves.”

John 6:13 NLT.

This verse is an example of God’s provision and God’s mercy toward those who follow Him. The people were tired and hungry and Jesus wanted to feed them because He loved them. He also wanted to show them mercy. It also shows us that God provides for his servants. Notice, there were twelve baskets of food left over, one for each of the twelve disciples to have a basket.

John Thomas was born on June 30, 2025. So let’s look at John 6:30 and John 20:25.

John 6:30 says, “They answered, “Show us a miraculous sign if you want us to believe in you. What can you do?”

John 6:30 NLT

Right after the miracle of feeding the 5,000, more people found Jesus and began asking him to perform miracles. They wanted Jesus for his provision, but not because they understood Him. Maybe there were doubting like the disciple Thomas would later? Maybe they were focused more on the gift than the giver? At either rate, both would be reflections of how we treat God too often: with our doubt and selfishness.

Fast forward to John 20:25. This is the moment that Thomas doubts the resurrection of Jesus when his fellow disciples tell Thomas that the Lord had appeared to them.

“They told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But Thomas replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.””

John 20:25 NLT

Thomas is like us. Despite walking with Jesus and seeing miracles performed, Thomas was still just a man. And he doubted like we do. He had a human moment and made this bold statement. Eight days later Jesus appeared and told Thomas “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!””

John 20:27 NLT

People say there’s power in a name. I wouldn’t go so far to say my child’s name has power. But there’s no doubt there’s power in the name of Jesus. And power in the word.

I address two topics today: an important U.S. Supreme Court decision and a Trump Administration directive.

The recent Supreme Court decision appropriately recognizes executive authority (i.e., as exercised by Pres. Trump) under our Constitution and the second involves a directive facilitating religious worship by federal employees.

The Supreme Court ruling highlights the exercise of two major powers of the Chief Executive, President Trump, that are well within his constitutional authority.  The first involves the Separation of Powers.  The second involves our system of co-federalism and the 10^th Amendment right of states to determine for themselves through their state legislatures what kind of law and policy they will live under.

Firstly, the Court held that the Trump Administration may continue to shrink the Department of Education by proceeding with large numbers of layoffs.  Trump, with much credibility, has railed against the Department of Education as being bloated, not truly educating children, and advancing Leftist ideas.  

Education Secretary Linda McMahon applauded the ruling stating “this lifts the handcuffs off of what we have been trying to do, which really is to get education back to the states where the president believes it does belong.” (Fox News).   Secretary McMahon described the Court’s decision as simply allowing her department to carry out its reduction in force (RIF) to improve education for families by returning primary authority over education to the states.

I highlight this decision because, under our Separation of Powers, there should never have been any question that the Chief Executive, i.e., the president, who is the singular head of the entire Executive Branch, has the unquestioned constitutional authority to remove Executive Branch employees.  The Trump Administration argued to the Supreme Court that the staffing reductions were meant to streamline the Education Department, not eliminate it (which Congress would have to approve given that the Department was set up by federal law). “The Constitution vests the Executive Branch, not district courts, with the authority to make judgments about how many employees are needed to carry out an agency’s statutory functions,” wrote Solicitor General John Sauer. 

Secondly, as it pertains to our system of co-federalism wherein the federal government and the states are co-equal, it is both appropriate and necessary for states to be allowed to decide what sort of public education will exist in their states—not have that dictated to them by bureaucrats in D.C. who likely have little idea what the residents in each of our 50 states seek in public education for their children.

To recap the Court decision, our Separation of Powers, which simply requires our Legislative, Executive and Judicial branches to “remain in their own lanes” requires that our Chief Executive be allowed to layoff Executive Branch federal workers if he chooses.   Second, our system of co-federalism and the 10^th Amendment also mandate that the states, and their state legislatures, are the most appropriate place to determine law and policy for their own residents.

The second topic I share is a new directive from the Trump Administration allowing federal employees to telework on or before days of religious importance.

The directive requires “federal agencies to consider granting flexible work arrangements, such as work-from-home, for employees who request such an option citing religious reasons. (The Epoch Times, N. Athrappully, 07/17/2025).  “Agencies are encouraged to adopt a generous approach to approving religious accommodations, prioritizing employee needs while maintaining operational efficiency,” the memo said.  “This guidance is applicable to all employees in the Executive Branch who have personal religious beliefs requiring accommodations, such as abstaining from work during specific times or participating in religious observances or practices.” (Id. at The Epoch Times).

This directive does not surprise me.  While President Trump has made clear the error of allowing federal employees to work from home for years on end, the fact that he is trying to accommodate the religious free exercise of federal employees where it can be accommodated indicates that he values and cherishes—and recognizes that federal employees value and cherish—their faith and spiritual life.

I consider both this Supreme Court ruling reaffirming the authority of the President and the Executive Branch over federal employees, as well as the President’s effort to accommodate the religious worship of those same federal employees, are not only right on the merits and legally symmetrical but are also more broadly essential to restoring and realigning our Republic to its constitutional framework, reestablishing a “Government by the Consent of the Governed. “

Royal Alexander

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.

Donald Wayne Coleman
May 19, 1940 – July 15, 2025
Service: Services for Mr. Coleman took place at The Family Church in Winnfield on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM.  Interment will follow in the Squires Cemetery near Jena, Louisiana under the direction of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield.

Claira Reese Ashley
February 9, 2021 – July 12, 2025
Service: Funeral services for Miss Claira Ashely took place Wednesday, July 16, 2025, 2PM, at Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield. Interment followed in the Transport Cemetery (Dodson, LA).

Diana Marie Smith
October 11, 1946 – July 16, 2025
Service: A Funeral Mass for Mrs. Smith took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at New Hope Cemetery (Haughton, LA).

Brick & Row is pleased to announce their FINAL Warehouse Sale taking place on Tuesday, July 22nd, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 214 Texas Street, Natchitoches, LA (Old Vaughn Showroom).

Shoppers can expect significant savings, with all Christmas merchandise marked 90% off and all other inventory available at 80% off.

Guests are encouraged to bring a shopping bag to take advantage of these exceptional deals.
For more information, visit Brick & Row’s store at 107 Church Street, Natchitoches, LA.

Brick & Row is pleased to announce their FINAL Warehouse Sale taking place on Tuesday, July 22nd, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 214 Texas Street, Natchitoches, LA (Old Vaughn Showroom).

Shoppers can expect significant savings, with all Christmas merchandise marked 90% off and all other inventory available at 80% off.

Guests are encouraged to bring a shopping bag to take advantage of these exceptional deals.
For more information, visit Brick & Row’s store at 107 Church Street, Natchitoches, LA.