The Sept. 9 Kiwanis Club meeting featured a presentation from Winn Parish 4H students Gracie Moore and Blakelyn Busha, who described their summer trip to Ireland, the first international tour organized by Louisiana 4H.

Five students from Winn Parish and five adults, including parents and grandparents, took part in the trip. It was the first international trip organized by 4H. The educational tour focused on agriculture in a different environment. The Winn Parish group joined 53 students from the northern region of Louisiana. Students from the southern region also participated, though the two groups did not meet during the trip. More than 100 students in total made the journey, traveling in two groups that departed two days apart.

Gracie and Blakelyn described their travels, which began in Dublin. They also stayed in Waterford and other locations, with educational activities scheduled each day. Stops included castles, historic buildings, flower gardens and churches known for stained-glass windows and acoustics.

Agricultural highlights included visits to a stud farm, dairy farm, oyster farm and a hydroponic gardening site. The students sampled strawberries and oysters, planted vegetables, and learned about farm-to-table dining, with restaurants serving locally grown food. At a sheep farm, they held lambs and watched a shepherd herd sheep with a dog. The group also toured a mine, wearing helmets for safety.

The girls said one of the best parts of the trip was meeting new people and making friends from other parts of Louisiana, friendships they hope to continue.

A video of the trip is available on the TWILA website and Facebook page.

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The Ag Mechanics contest will return to the Winn Parish Fair, Thursday, Oct. 2, marking its sixth year as an annual competing event for 4H and FFA members. Students will showcase wood, metal and combination projects to be judged before being offered up for bids in silent auction. Each category will recognize both a champion and a reserve champion.

Proceeds from the auction will go directly to the students. For some members, it’s a last chance to raise money to attend the 98th National FFA Convention, scheduled for Oct. 29-Nov. 1.

Registration for the contest is due by 6 p.m. Sept. 29 at the fairgrounds office. Projects will be available for public viewing around lunchtime once all judging has concluded on Oct. 2.

Local 4H and FFA members are working to strengthen student engagement and highlight the creativity and dedication that goes into their endeavors. Moon emphasized that he hopes the contest will keep growing and give young members more chances to showcase their talents. “These kids put their whole hearts into what they build,” he added. “We want to give them every chance to show that hard work and have our community support them in it.”

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The Juanita Pharr Cancer Support Group is partnering with local businesses and organizations to host a gala honoring cancer patients, survivors and those who have lost their battle.

Rhonda Pharr, director of the support group, said the event will celebrate the courage of those affected and recognize them as the heroes they are.

“We are very excited to be working on the plan for our first gala to honor our cancer survivors and to remember our loved ones who fought their fight so bravely,” said Pharr. “We are looking at holding this in February and hope to make it an annual event. We want our survivors to know what a special place they hold in all of our hearts and that we realize what true heroes they are.”

Details about the gala will be released in the coming days. Anyone who wishes to take part or help with planning the event is encouraged to reach out.

The groups next meeting is set for Tuesday, September 16th. For more information, contact the Juanita Pharr Cancer Support Group on Facebook, by email at juanitapharrcsg@gmail.com or by calling 318-332-4713.

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NATCHITOCHES, LA – The Women’s Resource Center of Natchitoches (WRC) is excited to host its annual Right to Life Gala on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Natchitoches Events Center. This inspiring evening “Be the Light” will bring together community partners, supporters, and friends to celebrate life and the mission of WRC.

The Gala is a cornerstone fundraising event, providing vital support for WRC’s services, which include pregnancy testing, parenting education, baby supplies, counseling, and referrals for women and families across ten parishes. Through the generosity of sponsors and attendees, WRC can continue offering these resources at no cost to every woman and family who walks through its doors.

“Each year, the Gala reminds us that when we come together as a community, lives are changed,” said Nicole Woods, Executive Director of WRC. “This evening is not only a celebration of life but also a powerful opportunity to ensure families in our region receive the care, education, and support they need.”

This year’s Gala will feature Benjamin Clapper, Executive Director of Louisiana Right to Life, as keynote speaker. Mr. Clapper is a passionate advocate for protecting life and strengthening families across Louisiana. His message will inspire attendees with a vision of hope and encouragement as we continue to serve women and families in our community.

The evening will also highlight the Louisiana Maternal Wellness Tax Credit, which allows individuals and businesses to receive a 50% state tax credit for donations made to qualified maternal wellness centers such as WRC. This new legislation makes supporting families not only impactful but also financially beneficial for donors.

In addition, a special announcement will be made unveiling an exciting new initiative launching in 2026, further demonstrating WRC’s commitment to expanding education and support for families. Gala guests will be the first to hear about this upcoming program and the expanded opportunities it will provide.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available, offering businesses and organizations the chance to visibly support WRC’s mission while receiving recognition throughout the event. Individual tickets are also on sale and may be purchased by contacting the Women’s Resource Center directly at 318-357-8888 or visiting the Center at 107 North Street.  

The evening will feature a keynote address, dinner, and a program highlighting the impact of WRC’s services. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m.

For more information about sponsorships, tickets, or ways to support the Women’s Resource Center, please call the WRC at 318-357-8888.

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Courtesy Annie Goods, Winn Parish DART Advocate

September is recognized across the nation as Suicide Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote resources for those struggling with thoughts of self-harm. While conversations often focus on mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma, one painful but often overlooked connection deserves attention: the link between domestic violence and suicide.

Domestic violence is not only about physical harm—it takes an enormous emotional and psychological toll. Survivors often experience isolation, fear, humiliation, and a constant state of stress. Research shows that survivors of intimate partner violence are at a significantly higher risk of attempting or dying by suicide than those who have not experienced abuse.

For many victims, the abuse doesn’t end with bruises or broken bones. Emotional abuse, financial control, stalking, and threats can create a hopeless environment where suicide may feel like the only way out. Tragically, abusers sometimes use threats of suicide or murder-suicide to maintain control, further trapping victims in fear.

In rural communities, resources are often harder to access. Limited mental health providers, transportation barriers, and the stigma around seeking help can leave survivors feeling they have nowhere to turn. Friends, neighbors, churches, and local organizations play a crucial role in breaking that silence and offering hope

Both survivors of abuse and those who love them should be aware of red flags that may point to suicidal thoughts, including:

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being trapped.

• Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities.

• Dramatic changes in mood or behavior.

• Talking about wanting to die or self-harm.

If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s important to take them seriously and seek help immediately.  If you are experiencing abuse, know that you are not alone. Domestic violence advocacy programs, crisis hotlines, and community partners are here to support you. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to be connected to help right away.  Suicide Awareness Month reminds us that every life is worth fighting for, and every person deserves safety, dignity, and hope. Ending domestic violence and preventing suicide go hand in hand. By speaking up, supporting survivors, and breaking the silence, communities can save lives.

If you or someone you know is a victim of Domestic Violence, please call 318-395-8006.

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The Village of Goldonna recently held their famous, Annual Fish Fry Fundraiser benefitting the Christmas in the Park Festival.

“This year’s fundraiser was a huge success and we couldn’t have done it without the many volunteers and sponsors,” shared volunteer, Eugean Garner.

The committee also sold raffle tickets for a shotgun. Mr. James Settle of Natchitoches is the lucky winner who took home the prize.

The committee will continue their fundraising efforts for the remainder of the year. More festival details to be released soon.

Reba Phelps jreba.phelps@gmail.com

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During the final days leading up to my youngest daughter moving out of her childhood home and into a college dorm there were so many trivial chores that had to be completed. One morning before we began to tackle our to-do list, we decided that we needed a Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen breakfast as encouragement to make it through the day. And it did not disappoint. Leaving the restaurant filled to the brim with potato stacks, meat pies, and orange juice, we were ready to tackle the day.

As we were walking out of the restaurant, we were discussing our next stop and agreeing that we were both full as ticks. Not paying attention, I stepped off the sidewalk and for some reason unbeknownst to me, I missed a step and began to fall to the ground. It truly happened in slow motion; I saw meat pies and speeding cars flash before my eyes. I thought I was going to regain my clumsy composure, but it didn’t happen. So, I ungracefully rolled into the street as if I were leaving a Pub after having too many drinks. Even at this moment, I cannot tell if my daughter was mortified or concerned.

After she laughed and laughed for way too long, she giggled my nickname loud enough where anyone could hear. “Reebs! Are you okay?”. Reebs was facedown on Second Street. Mama was down.

With as much grace and dignity as I could muster, I peeled myself off the ground and scanned around to make sure there wasn’t an audience. Once I knew we were alone I glanced down at my favorite leggings to make sure there were no holes, I wiped the gravel off my knees, hands and elbows and proceeded as if I didn’t just roll down the street like a low paid stunt woman. I absolutely forbade my daughter to ever mention it again. Ever. I wanted this embarrassment to be tucked away in the recesses of my mind.

That was, until God had other plans.

Not long after the great fall of mama, I found myself at Bid Day at Louisiana State University. My daughter participated in Rush, so it was time for her find out which house accepted the little girl who made fun of her dear mom falling into the street. As I stood on River Road with approximately two thousand other parents in the one hundred degrees heat, I was praying the sun would move so the shade could take over. There is no heat like Louisiana in August. It was so hot you could see parents scooting towards any shade they could find. While I was appreciating the shift of the sun and the sudden cool breeze, I heard a loud thud with simultaneous gasps soon followed by the obligatory, “Oh no’s” from the crowd.

I looked around only to notice another poor mom who had suffered my same meat pie day fate. Someone’s mama was down. It even appeared as though she tucked and rolled the same way I did.

It suddenly hit me. This was time to shine. With the speed of a much younger woman who has never fallen, I rushed over to her to help. She sheepishly tried to say she was fine but her face was a shade of red that only embarrassment could provide. I recognized that face. That was my face a week earlier. I took the time to brush the gravel off her back while she collected herself and reassured her family that she was not hurt. I looked her straight in the eyes and began to console her.

I said, “Look, your clothes are not torn, I wiped off all of the dirt, you will be fine. Your dignity is still on the ground, your hair is a mess and your confidence will be shaken for a few days but you got this. Don’t let this little incident keep you down, mama!” She looked at me with grateful but surprised eyes and said, “I really appreciate you.”

As I walked away, kind of feeling like a superhero, I was reminded of the goodness of God. He took my mini-drama of falling down on Second Street and used it to console someone who suffered the very same calamity. He used me to comfort the sweet sorority mom who fell in front of hundreds of strangers. (I may have thanked God that I fell only in front of my daughter and not the masses…but nonetheless…I was grateful the other mama that went down was unscathed)

God will never let us experience a tragedy that won’t be used for his glory. Every downfall (no pun intended) we face on earth can and will be used for the heavenly purpose of helping those that God puts in our path. Our Savior has the power to turn our little messes into someone else’s testimony. Like only he can. He put us on earth to share the love of Christ and carry each other’s burdens.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2

Reba Phelps jreba.phelps@gmail.com

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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.

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Glenn Doyle Gilcrease
August 27, 1948 – September 6, 2025
Service: Funeral services for Mr. Gilcrease took place Monday, September 8, 2025 in the chapel of Southern at 2:00 p.m. Interment followed the service in the Garden of Memories in Winnfield.

John Ricky Wise
August 13, 1950 – September 8, 2025
Service: Visitation for Mr. Wise will be held at Yankee Springs Baptist Church of Goldonna, Louisiana on Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 9-10:30 a.m. A memorial graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at New Jerusalem Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield.

The Winn Parish School Board adopted its 2025-26 consolidated budget, insurance renewals and millage rates during its Sept. 2 meeting, following committee reviews held in late August.

The budget was approved after a public hearing, along with millage rates for the 2025 tax year through a roll call vote. Rates were set at 4.93 mills for the constitutional tax, 7.57 mills for additional aids, 9.25 mills for parish-wide maintenance, 3.11 mills for Winnfield District 5 maintenance, 3.44 mills for Consolidated District 11 maintenance and 15 mills for sinking funds.

Insurance renewals for general liability, auto and property bond coverage were also approved, with a 4 percent increase in premiums compared to an average 15 percent statewide. Cyber liability coverage remains under review, with a finalized policy expected soon.

The board discussed legislative stipends and differentiated compensation. Certificated employees in high need areas will receive $2,000, and support staff will receive $1,000, with deposits possible as early as Oct. 1. Differentiated compensation will be paid at the end of the year.

The 2025-26 Pupil Progression Plan, a state mandated policy governing student placement and promotion, was approved with no major changes from recent years. The plan, presented at the previous meeting by Nancy Crain, ensures students demonstrate mastery of grade-level skills before advancing. Job descriptions were also updated to include literacy interventionists to meet grant requirements without changing employment status.

Authorization was granted to advertise for bids on the Dodson School parking lot as part of capital improvements.

The meeting closed with a brief message from Superintendent elect Dr. Troy Bell, who shared his plan to visit each school, meet with staff and principals and tour campuses in the coming weeks. Superintendent Simmons reminded parents that the district has transitioned to a four-day school week and that no classes will be held on Mondays.

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By Matt Vines, Journal Services 

Byron Keller lifted the District 3-2A championship trophy at the end of this past season, but he was wearing Red River High blue.

Now Keller is back in Winnfield red, a color he wore as an assistant in 2021 and 2022, as the program’s new head coach. During his first stint, Winnfield won home playoff games in both years.

Keller and Red River thumped Winnfield both to end the regular season and again in the first round of the playoffs this past season.

Now Keller is bringing that energy and swagger to Winnfield as the Tigers aim to contend for the district title.

That journey begins Friday at home against Jonesboro-Hodge, a team they blanked 27-0 to start the 2024 season.

Keller praised his offensive and defensive lines specifically, units he believes will create space for Winnfield’s playmakers. Winnfield is big, weighing in between 275 and 300 pounds pretty much across the board, which will be problematic for any opponent.

Joe Lewis checks in at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds with Jacob Crosler (290 pounds) and Andrew Chevallier (275 pounds) not far behind.

All-district linebacker Zaelyn Thomas will lead a defense that played well at times last season.
Winnfield has won just six games combined in the past two seasons, and they are eager to get back closer to their storied history.

Jonesboro-Hodge struggled mightily to a 1-6 start this past season, but the Tigers found life late with wins over Glenbrook and Cedar Creek to make the playoffs, where they nearly scored a first-round victory.
These Tigers return nearly every big piece back from that 4-7 squad and will be looking to make early-season noise with a road upset.

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PRESS RELEASE

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on July 7, 2025 

JORDAN HUNTER JONES: Defendant entered guilty plea simple burglary. Imposition of sentence deferred, 3 years supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on July 8, 2025 

SHELITA T. ALLEN: Defendant entered guilty plea possession with intent to distribute Schedule II fentanyl and issuing worthless checks less than $1000.00. Sentence – serve 40 years at hard labor, execution of 35 years jail sentence suspended, placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 5 years. 

ETHAN COLE BOONE: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of Schedule II less than 2 grams. Imposition of sentence deferred and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on July 10, 2025 

JASON L. EDWARDS: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer. Sentenced to serve 90 days in custody of the Winnfield City Police Department, credit for time served. 

DANIKA DSHAYE HEBERT: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer. Sentenced to serve 90 days in custody of Winn Parish Sheriff, credit for time served. 

CODY THOMAS MORGAN: Defendant entered guilty plea theft under $1,000.00. Sentenced to serve 73 days in the custody of Winn Parish Sheriff, credit for time served. 

CHRISTIAN LADAVON HOBDY: Defendant entered guilty plea domestic abuse battery – 1st offense. Sentenced to 6 months unsupervised probation, pay fine, court cost, probation fee, prosecution fee and complete 64 hours community service. 

CHAD D. MOORE: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer by flight. Imposition of sentence suspended, 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost and probation fee. 

CODY R. ZIMMERMAN: Defendant entered guilty DWI 1st offense. Imposition of sentence deferred, unsupervised probation with Winn Parish Probation Office 24 months, pay fine, court cost, fee to Office of Public Defender, probation fee, complete 16 hours community service, drug and substance abuse program and driver improvement program. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on July 11, 2025 

JIMMY LYNN KEEN: Defendant resentenced on manslaughter – serve 15 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, credit for time served. 

MICHAEL COLETON BLACK: Defendant entered guilty plea theft between $5,000.00 and $25,000.00. Sentence – serve 10 years at hard labor with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution of 10 years suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

DONNIE WAYNE FOLDEN: Defendant entered guilty plea simple battery and sale, distribution or possession of legend drug without prescription. Sentence on simple battery 6 months, credit for time served. Sentence on sale, distribution or possession of legend drug without prescription 6 months suspended, 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost, probation fee and fee to Office of Public Defender. 

JAMIE P. JAMES: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer with force or violence. Sentenced to serve 1.5 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, credit for time served. 

DUSTIN MATTHEW MAY: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of a Schedule II CDS. Sentenced to serve 2 years in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, consecutive. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on July 14, 2025 

JUSTIN WAYNE COLEMAN: Defendant entered guilty plea simple burglary. Sentenced to 6 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, credit for time served. 

SHIRLEY CARRIE DESADIER: Defendant entered guilty plea criminal trespass and resisting an officer. Criminal trespass sentenced to 20 days, credit for time served. Resisting an officer sentenced to 180 days, consecutive, credit for time served. 

ANTHONY EARL McHENRY: Defendant entered guilty plea failure to register and notify as a sex offender or child predator first offense. Sentenced to serve 2 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, credit for time served. 

AUSTIN RAY DOYLE OURSO: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer. Sentence – serve 90 days in the custody of Winn Parish Sheriff, credit for time served. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 4, 2025 

TYU ANDRE EVANS: Defendant entered guilty plea theft of a firearm. Sentenced to serve 5 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, credit for time served. 

WILLIE L.D. HENSON: Defendant voluntarily revoked himself on charge, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities. Probation revoked and defendant sentenced to 1 year at hard labor, credit for time served. 

ASHLAN NICOLE McALLISTER: Defendant entered guilty plea obstruction of justice. Sentenced to serve 5 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution of 5 years suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

PRISCILLA A. PAYTON: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer. Sentenced to 6 months, 6 months suspended and placed on 2 years probation, ordered to pay fine, court cost, probation fee, fee to Office of Public Defender and cost of prosecution. 

DETYRIEON RONTREZ BUTLER: Defendant entered guilty plea simple burglary. Sentenced to serve 7 years at hard labor in custody Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, 7 years suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 5, 2025 

LATRAYVIOUS TYREESE HARRIS: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of CDS marijuana over 14 grams. Imposition of sentence suspended, placed on 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost, probation fee and perform 50 hours community service. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 11, 2025 

DERRICK K. SAPP: Defendant entered guilty plea aggravated second degree battery. Sentenced to serve 15 years at hard labor with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, 15 years jail sentence suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

PHILLIP D. JACKSON: Defendant entered guilty plea domestic abuse battery – strangulation. Sentence – one and one-half years at hard labor, credit for time served. 

JOSHUA ALLEN SANDERS: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance. Sentence – serve 1 year at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 14, 2025 

JUSTIN MICHAEL BOYETT: Defendant entered guilty plea operating a vehicle while intoxicated first offense. Sentence – 6 months suspended, supervised probation 2 years, pay fine, court cost, fee to Office of Public Defender, probation fee, complete 16 hours community service, drug and substance and driver improvement program. 

REKITA I. FOUNTAIN: Defendant entered Alford plea to operating a vehicle while intoxicated first offense. Imposition of sentence deferred and defendant placed on 24 months supervised probation with Winn Parish Probation Office, pay court cost, fine, fee to Office of Public Defender, probation fee, perform 16 hours community service, complete drug and substance abuse and driver improvement programs. 

ERIC RAY KIRTLEY: Defendant entered guilty plea resisting an officer. Sentenced to serve 90 days in the custody of Winn Parish Sheriff, consecutive. 

 

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 15, 2025 

SyJUAN DEANDRE BELLARD: Defendant entered guilty plea obstruction of justice. Sentence – serve 5 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution of 5 years jail sentence suspended and defendant placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

JASON ROYCE HOLLAND: Defendant entered guilty plea aggravated second degree battery. Sentence – serve 10 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, 9 years jail sentence suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

JUSTIN V. ROBINSON: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance. Sentence – serve 2 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution 2 years suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

CAMERON JACOBY WYATT: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of Schedule II controlled dangerous substance and simple burglary. Sentence – serve 17 years at hard labor in custody of Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution of 17 years suspended and placed on supervised probation with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years. 

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