Winn Parish was among four Central Louisiana parishes involved in a multi-parish pursuit that began after authorities say two Texas men attempted to use a drone to smuggle approximately $31,000 worth of methamphetamine into a federal prison.

According to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, the incident began when a deputy noticed a vehicle stopped in the middle of Hooper Road. When the deputy turned around to check on the vehicle, authorities said it sped away at a high rate of speed.

The pursuit ultimately traveled through Grant, Rapides, Winn and Natchitoches parishes before coming to an end.

While the pursuit was underway, another Grant Parish deputy returned to the location where the vehicle had initially been stopped. Authorities said a drone then landed nearby with approximately $31,000 worth of methamphetamine attached to it.

Investigators allege the occupants of the vehicle had been attempting to use the drone to smuggle the drugs into a federal prison. After the men fled, the drone’s battery reportedly began running low, causing it to return to its launch location.

Leroy Rocha, 35, of Corpus Christi, Texas, was arrested on charges including principal to aggravated flight from an officer, principal to reckless operation of a vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of fentanyl and criminal conspiracy.

Javier Hernandez, 31, also of Corpus Christi, was arrested on charges including taking contraband into a penal institution, aggravated flight from an officer, reckless operation of a vehicle, possession of methamphetamine, possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that both men are affiliated with Tango Blast, which the agency described as a Mexican street and prison gang.

The case remains based on allegations reported by law enforcement. An arrest does not constitute a conviction, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

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WINN PARISH, La. — Hot and humid conditions will continue across Winn Parish through the weekend and into Monday, with afternoon temperatures reaching the upper 90s and daily chances for showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 97 degrees. The combination of heat and humidity could push the heat index as high as 105 degrees. A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms will develop after 1 p.m. Winds will be calm before becoming easterly around 5 mph during the afternoon. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 73.

Thursday will remain mostly sunny and hot with a high around 96 degrees. A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected after 1 p.m. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a low near 73.

Rain chances increase Friday, with showers possible during the day and thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. The chance of precipitation is 40%, the highest currently forecast during the period. Otherwise, conditions will remain mostly sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73.

Saturday will bring a slight chance of showers early, followed by a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Rain chances are around 30%. The high will climb to approximately 97 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low near 73.

Sunday will remain mostly sunny and hot with a high around 96 degrees and a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low near 72.

Looking ahead to Monday, little change is expected. Mostly sunny and hot conditions will continue with a high near 96 degrees and a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

While isolated or scattered storms could provide temporary relief from the heat, no widespread washout is indicated in the forecast, with Friday currently carrying the highest rain chance at 40%.

The heat will remain the bigger concern, particularly Wednesday when the heat index could reach 105 degrees. Residents working or spending extended periods outdoors should drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and watch for signs of heat-related illness.

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WINNFIELD — Leadership for Kiwanis Division 11 officially returned to Winnfield this week as local member Kim Futrell was installed as the new Lieutenant Governor during the Tuesday meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Winnfield.

​Outgoing Lieutenant Governor Danny Wilburn of Pineville attended the September 8 meeting to formally pass the division banner to Futrell. The ceremony marks the end of Wilburn’s two-year tenure leading Division 11, which encompasses six regional clubs: Winnfield, Alexandria, Pineville, Natchitoches, Leesville, and Sabine.

​Wilburn delivered an update on district affairs, reporting positive membership trends across the 120-club district and emphasizing the key role local clubs play in supporting youth programs such as Terrific Kids and Builders Club. To support local efforts, Wilburn made a personal financial contribution to the Winnfield club’s upcoming Pancake Breakfast fundraiser set for September 24.

​Following the general meeting, Wilburn and Futrell held an orientation session to review district operations, leadership goals, and upcoming division events. Futrell’s term will focus on supporting club operations, fostering regional coordination, and representing Division 11 at the district level.

​The meeting also featured historical reflections from longtime member Rita James, a former Lieutenant Governor who recalled how inter-club visits during her term brought signature programs to Winnfield—such as the weekly “Happy Bucks” fundraiser and the original concept for the annual Pancake Breakfast.

Futrell steps into her new administrative role as Winnfield Kiwanis prepares for its busy fall schedule, including youth reading award presentations, community festival involvement, and holiday service projects.

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WINN PARISH, La. — Louisiana has a new Wildlife Management Area, and it is located in southwest Winn Parish.

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has officially established Coochie Brake Wildlife Management Area, opening 1,894 acres to public hunting, outdoor recreation and conservation opportunities, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

The property, formerly known as the Coochie Brake State Preservation Area, became a WMA through a partnership between LDWF and the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism’s Office of State Parks.

Coochie Brake consists primarily of cypress swamp, transitioning into upland habitats characteristic of the surrounding area.

Beginning Oct. 1, the new WMA will offer public hunting opportunities, including archery-only deer hunting and small game hunting. Additional regulations and season information are included in LDWF’s 2026-27 hunting season materials.

“We’re proud to partner with the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism-Office of State Parks to provide more public lands to the people of Louisiana through Coochie Brake WMA,” LDWF Secretary Tyler Bosworth said. “It gives another outdoor recreation opportunity to our sportsmen and women, especially those in the north central part of the state, which is a big goal of this administration.”

Beyond its recreational opportunities, Coochie Brake has a history intertwined with local folklore. According to LDWF, the area’s roots stretch back to its days as the site of a Spanish fort.

The rugged landscape was once considered an “impenetrable barrier” and over the years became associated with local stories involving curses, outlaws, moonshiners and the mysterious woods.

Its history and folklore have also inspired music about Coochie Brake and the stories surrounding the area.

LDWF added some humor to its announcement, borrowing from the lyrics of Alan Jackson’s “Chattahoochee” while introducing the new WMA, including the line, “It gets hotter than a hoochie … Coochie Brake.”

With its official designation, Coochie Brake WMA adds nearly 1,900 acres of public land in Winn Parish, providing additional opportunities for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts beginning this fall.

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High school students across Louisiana have an opportunity to promote safe driving while competing to earn thousands of dollars for their schools through the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” High School Video and Pledge Contest.

The Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office is encouraging local students to participate in the statewide campaign, which focuses on two simple but potentially lifesaving habits: wearing a seat belt every time they are in a vehicle and putting cell phones down while driving.

“As we begin a new school year, the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office is proud to support the Buckle Up, Phone Down campaign and encourage our young drivers to make safe choices behind the wheel,” the department shared.

The contest is open to Louisiana high school students in grades 9 through 12 and runs from Sept. 1 through Oct. 31.

Students are challenged to create a unique video encouraging others to buckle their seat belts and put their phones down whenever they are in a vehicle. Participants are also encouraged to get fellow students and members of their communities to take the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” pledge.

Schools have the opportunity to win significant cash prizes through the competition. First place will receive $5,000, second place will receive $3,500 and third place will receive $1,500.

The campaign is supported by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and AAA as part of efforts to encourage safer driving habits and reduce preventable crashes.

The Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office is encouraging students to get creative, have fun and use their videos to show others why making responsible choices behind the wheel matters.

Official contest rules and guidelines are available through the QR code included on the contest flyer.

The safety message for young drivers is straightforward: “Buckle Up. Phone Down. Arrive Alive.”

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WINNFIELD, La. — Winnfield Senior High School is welcoming two new members to the Tiger family, adding a new band director and paraprofessional to the school’s staff.

Corian Moore has joined Winnfield Senior High School as the school’s new band director, while Tyra Triplett has joined the staff as a paraprofessional.

School officials shared their excitement in welcoming both Moore and Triplett to campus as they begin their new roles working with Winnfield students.

Moore will take the helm of the Winnfield band program, working with student musicians and continuing the school’s musical traditions. Triplett will serve as a paraprofessional, providing additional support to students and staff throughout the school day.

Winnfield Senior High celebrated the new additions with a simple message: “We are excited to welcome you home!”

The announcement was also shared with the school’s familiar #TigerPride message as the newest staff members begin their time at Winnfield Senior High School.

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Eunice Laverne Adams

Funeral services celebrating the life of Eunice Laverne Rolen Adams, age 94, of Winnfield, Louisiana, will be at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Winnfield. Reverends Danny Keyes and Brian McAllister will officiate with interment following at Garden of Memories Cemetery under the direction of Southern Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at First Baptist Church before services, beginning at 9:00 AM.

Laverne was born on December 9, 1931, in Sikes, Louisiana, where she grew up with her five sisters and attended school. At age 18, she married Crosby Adams, Jr and eventually moved to Winnfield, where they would raise their two sons, Delane and Steve. She dedicated her career to the Bank of Winnfield & Trust Company until her retirement. After retirement, Laverne and Crosby hit the road with their travel trailer succeeding with their mission of visiting 49 states. They could not visit Hawaii and conquer all 50 states because Laverne was too afraid to fly.

When traveling with a travel trailer became too much, Crosby and Laverne found that Branson was a favorite spot to visit, especially in the fall each year. When she and ‘Jr’ weren’t traveling, playing Rook with friends, or attending grandchildren’s sporting events, they could be found fishing, especially at Black River Lake. Laverne’s faith and family were at the center of her life. She loved having her family gathered around the table, always preparing more food than anyone could possibly eat, simply because she wanted everyone together. She wanted to know what was happening in each of their lives and took great joy in keeping up with those she loved most.

After 94 years filled with many wonderful adventures, Laverne Adams passed away on September 5, 2026, at Autumn Leaves Nursing Home. She is survived by two sons, Delane Adams (Joyce) and Steve Adams; grandsons Chad Adams (Carolee), Todd Adams, Chris Adams (Monica); great-grandchildren: Taylor Adams (Mary), Jack Adams, Alex Adams, Logan Adams, Dawson Adams, and her only great-granddaughter, Emily Grace Adams; great-great grandchildren: Samuel Adams and Charter Adams; sister-in-law, Reitha Cannaday (Wayne); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Laverne was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Crosby Adams, Jr., her parents Oscar and Addie Rolen, five sisters, daughter-in-law Cheryl Adams and daughter-in-law Tammy Adams.

Pallbearers will be grandsons Chad Adams, Chris Adams, and Todd Adams; great-grandchildren Taylor Adams, Jack Adams, Alex Adams, and Logan Adams. Honorary pallbearers will be great-grandchildren Emily Grace Adams and Dawson Adams.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First Baptist Church Winnfield, Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home, or any organization of your choice.

Friends may express messages of condolence online by visiting southernfuneralhome.com

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The Winn Parish Fair is preparing to return this fall with a full lineup of youth competitions, livestock, agricultural activities, carnival rides and family entertainment planned for late September and early October.

Fair activities will begin Monday, Sept. 28, with youth exhibits and events continuing through Friday, Oct. 2. The carnival midway will run Tuesday, Sept. 29 through Saturday, Oct. 3.
Youth from Winn, Jackson and Grant parishes are invited to participate in this year’s fair competitions. Activities will include competitive exhibits, livestock and horse events, a pet show, agricultural awareness activities and new contests being introduced this year.

Those interested in participating can stop by the Winn Parish 4-H Office to pick up a fair catalog or request one by email for information on competitions, entry requirements and other youth activities.

The fun will begin Monday with a special day of attractions from Junie B’s Amusements, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. A $15 all-day wristband will cover inflatable attractions, including a four-station bungee jump, 13-by-13 jumper, pirate ship combo and other activities.

A bungee attraction, rock wall and mechanical bull will be available for $10 per play. Food will also be available on site.

The traditional carnival gets underway Tuesday, Sept. 29. Carnival hours will be 6-10 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 2-10 p.m. Saturday.

Several wristband specials are planned. Tuesday’s opening-day special will offer unlimited rides for $20. Wristbands will be $25 Wednesday through Friday and valid from opening until closing.

On Saturday, the carnival will offer two sessions. A $20 wristband will be valid from 2-5 p.m., followed by a $25 wristband covering rides from 5 p.m. until closing. Wristbands are only valid during the designated session in which they are purchased.

The carnival will also introduce a FunTags ticketing system for ride and attraction sales.

From livestock and competitive exhibits showcasing the work of local youth to carnival rides, food and midway fun, the Winn Parish Fair will once again provide several days of activities for families from across the area.

Fair and youth activities: Sept. 28-Oct. 2

Carnival: Sept. 29-Oct. 3

Youth participation: Open to Winn, Jackson and Grant parishes

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WINN PARISH, La. — Dangerous heat will remain a concern across Winn Parish through Labor Day, with heat index values potentially reaching 110 degrees Wednesday and actual temperatures climbing to around 100 degrees by the holiday, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 97 degrees. Heat index values could reach as high as 110 degrees. There is a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1 and 4 p.m. Winds will be calm before becoming southeast around 5 mph during the afternoon. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with a low around 73.

Thursday will be even hotter, with sunny skies and a high near 99 degrees. A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected after 1 p.m. Thursday night will be mostly clear with a low around 74.

Rain chances increase significantly Friday, with showers becoming likely and a thunderstorm also possible after 1 p.m. The chance of precipitation is 60%. The day will otherwise be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 97. Friday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73.

Saturday will bring a 50% chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m.

Mostly sunny and hot conditions are expected with a high near 96. Saturday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 73.

Sunday will be sunny and hot with temperatures climbing back to around 99 degrees. There is a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunday night will be mostly clear with a low around 74.

The hottest actual temperature in the extended forecast is expected on Labor Day, when the high could reach 100 degrees. The National Weather Service is forecasting sunny and hot conditions along with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Overall, Winn Parish can expect highs ranging from 96 to 100 degrees through Labor Day, with the greatest rain chances arriving Friday and Saturday. The most significant heat concern comes Wednesday, when the heat index could soar to 110 degrees.

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WINNFIELD, LA — The Kiwanis Club of Winnfield met recently to outline its upcoming fall service schedule, highlight local youth recognition initiatives, and host nonpartisan candidate presentations.

ANNUAL PANCAKE SUPPER FUNDRAISER

The Kiwanis Club’s primary focus this fall is its Annual Pancake Supper Fundraiser, set for Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the First Presbyterian Church. Tickets are $8.00 per person, and children 5 and under eat free when dining in with a paying adult. The menu features delicious pancakes and sausage, with drinks provided for dine-in guests. Meals are available for both dine-in and take-out.

All proceeds directly support youth recognition programs in local schools, including the Terrific Kids initiative. Tickets can be purchased from any Kiwanis Club member. Checks should be made payable to the Kiwanis Club of Winnfield Foundation.

In addition to purchasing tickets, community members who wish to make a donation to support local youth programs or the club’s annual scholarship fund—which is also supported by the annual Boston Butt cookout—can visit Jason Tarver at Sabine State Bank on Highway 167 North, where the Kiwanis Club maintains its account.

The club is also actively inviting energetic community members interested in civic service and to join our ranks.

UPCOMING KIWANIS SCHEDULE & EVENTS

September 9: Terrific Kids awards presentations at Winnfield Primary School (2:15 p.m.), Calvin High School (3:00 p.m.), and Dodson High School (3:00 p.m.).

September 15: Program presentation by District Attorney candidate Keith Gates.

September 22: Program presentation by District Attorney candidate Judge Jack Derr.

September 24: Annual Kiwanis Pancake Supper Fundraiser at First Presbyterian Church (5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.).

September 29: Presentation on the upcoming Wolf Creek Festival by Rita James, followed by preliminary planning for the annual Christmas Parade.

October 5 (Monday evening, 6:30 p.m.): Annual Installation Banquet for incoming club officers and member awards presentation.

Note on Candidate Presentations: As a nonpartisan civic organization, the Kiwanis Club does not endorse political candidates. Both District Attorney candidates have been invited to speak about themselves and their background. To maintain a nonpartisan atmosphere, candidates will not distribute campaign materials or handouts during the meeting.

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LOUISIANA — Dove hunters across Louisiana can officially head back into the fields this weekend as the state’s 2026 dove hunting season opens Saturday, Sept. 5, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

The season is divided into North and South zones, with each featuring three hunting segments extending into January.

In the North Zone, dove hunting will be open Sept. 5-27, Oct. 10-Nov. 15 and Dec. 19-Jan. 17, 2027.

The South Zone will be open Sept. 5-20, Oct. 17-Nov. 29 and Dec. 12-Jan. 10, 2027.

Hunters 18 and older must have a basic Louisiana hunting license and Harvest Information Program certification, commonly known as HIP certification, to participate. Youth hunters age 17 and younger are not required to have a hunting license or HIP certification to hunt dove.

For opening day, LDWF will have lease fields available in DeRidder and Colfax. Dove hunting opportunities will also be available on several Wildlife Management Areas across Louisiana.

The statewide opener marks the beginning of a popular fall tradition for Louisiana sportsmen, with dove season often providing an opportunity for families and friends to gather in the field as hunting activity begins to pick up across the state.

Hunters are encouraged to review all applicable regulations before heading out and to make firearm and field safety a priority throughout the season.

The 2026 dove season officially opens statewide Saturday, Sept. 5.

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District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 3, 2026.

DETAVIOUS KETRAVION HOLMES: Defendant entered guilty plea theft of a firearm first offense, theft of a motor vehicle $5000 but less than $25,000 and battery of a dating partner – child endangerment. Sentence – serve 23 years hard labor with Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, 23 years jail sentence suspended, supervised probation Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 5 years.

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 4, 2026

JAMIE L. BROWN: Defendant entered guilty plea theft between $1,000.00 and $5,000.00. Sentence – 5 years hard labor Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, execution 5 years suspended, supervised probation Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 3 years.

JOHNNY RAY NASH, III: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance, illegal carrying of weapons – use/possession/control-crime of violence/CDS and illegal possession of stolen firearms 2 counts. Sentence on possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance and illegal carrying of weapons –use/possession/control-crime of violence/CDS – imposition of sentence deferred, supervised probation Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 5 years, concurrent. Sentence on illegal possession of stolen firearms 2 counts – imposition of sentence deferred, supervised probation Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections 5 years, concurrent.

District Attorney Chris Nevils reports the following action was taken in Eighth Judicial District Court on August 6, 2026

JAMYA VANNICE BURKS: Defendant entered guilty plea operating a vehicle while impaired-first offense. Sentence – deferred imposition of sentence, supervised probation Winn Parish Probation Office 2 years, pay court cost, fine, probation fee, 32 hours community service, complete drug, substance abuse and driver improvement program.

TIMOTHY JAMES CANADY: Defendant entered guilty plea possession of an illegally taken deer or bear. Sentence – 120 days suspended, 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost, probation fee and fee to Office of Public Defender.

JADA JACKSON: Defendant entered guilty plea disturbing the peace by fighting. Sentence deferred, 2 years unsupervised probation, pay fine, court cost, probation fee and fee to Office of Public Defender.

JUAN JOSE SIERRA: Defendant entered guilty plea criminal trespass. Sentence deferred, 2 years unsupervised probation, pay fine, court cost and probation fee.

DUSTIN DEWAYNE THOMPSON: Defendant entered guilty plea criminal mischief. Sentence deferred, 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost, fee to Office of Public Defender and probation fee.

JOSHUA CONLEY WISE: Defendant entered guilty plea entry on or remaining in places or on land after being forbidden. Sentence – 6 months suspended, 2 years probation, pay fine, court cost and probation fee.

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Members of the Kiwanis Club of Winnfield gathered for their regular weekly meeting on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, featuring a recap program centered on the 108th Annual District Convention (DCON 2026). The convention was held from July 31 through August 2 at the Hilton New Orleans Airport in Kenner, Louisiana, bringing together Kiwanians from across the La-Miss-Tenn District under the theme “Laissez les bons temps rouler with Kiwanis!”

A delegation of five Winnfield members attended the annual convention, including Dr. Bill Gaddis, Margaret Coon, Ethel Howell, Club President Mary Lou Blackley, and Kim Futrell. A major highlight of the event was the formal installation of Winnfield’s own Kim Futrell as the incoming Lieutenant Governor for the district on Sunday morning.

During the local meeting, members who attended shared highlights and key takeaways from the weekend’s sessions:

Youth & Service Projects: President-Elect Ethel Howell highlighted her inspiration from the Key Club presentations, expressing a strong interest in establishing youth-focused service clubs, such as a Builders Club or Key Club, within the local middle and high schools. Margaret Coon reported on the convention’s hands-on service project, where attendees packed activity bags for the Ronald McDonald House.

Public Relations & Growth: Coon also summarized sessions on modern public relations, emphasizing the use of social media and AI tools, adhering to Kiwanis International branding standards, and keeping club engagement active.

Keynote & District Grants: President Mary Lou Blackley detailed the keynote address delivered by Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, who spoke on state park preservation and tourism. She also outlined the updated two-step process for applying for Kiwanis Foundation grants, which begins with a letter of inquiry.

District Leadership & Records: Dr. Bill Gaddis summarized the district elections and noted that the convention’s annual gift basket fundraiser raised a record $9,016.

Looking ahead, the club confirmed details for its upcoming local events, including the annual Pancake Supper scheduled for September 24, 2026, Be sure to see a Kiwanian for tickets, followed by the Installation Banquet on October 5.

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WINN PARISH, La. — Winn Parish will see temperatures reach the triple digits Wednesday before chances for showers and thunderstorms increase Wednesday night and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

Wednesday will be sunny and hot with a high near 100 degrees. Winds will be calm before becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning. Wednesday night will bring a 40 percent chance of precipitation, with showers and thunderstorms possible at various times. The low will be around 75.

Thursday will bring a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Otherwise, conditions will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 96 degrees. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1 a.m. and a low around 72.

Friday will be mostly sunny and hot with a high near 97. There is a 20 percent chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1 p.m. Friday night will be mostly clear with a low around 72.

Saturday will be sunny and hot with a high near 98 degrees. Saturday night will be mostly clear with a low around 72.

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