by Lt. Charles Curry

The 16th annual Shop with a Cop was considered a total success on Saturday.  Even the weather cooperated, and the rain held off until well after the festivities.  It felt as if the entire community became participants as the number of children given a better outlook on Christmas surpassed the goal and provided a Christmas for 120 kids.

The name of the program should be changed, as the kids were assisted in their shopping by an entire community that in addition to police officers, included firemen, mayor, council members, police jury members, secretaries, jailers, 911 dispatchers, city hall employees, and Walmart associates.  A special visitor included the Grinch himself who made an appearance to welcome the kids to the local Walmart Store after they had paraded through town riding fire trucks, police cars and special service vehicles.

The smiles of the children made for a happy day for all involved.  We were especially thrilled by the coverage of the event by local news media that included the Winn Parish Journal and TV8 KNOE news.  From the community of Winnfield who made this day possible, we wish all a Merry Christmas.