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Members of the local Rotary Club gathered on Wednesday, Sept. 2, to hear from Keith Gates, candidate for District Attorney in the upcoming Nov. 3 election. Running as a Christian Conservative Republican, Gates presented his extensive legal experience, community involvement, and campaign platform to the attending members.

September marks National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a month dedicated to bringing mental health out of the shadows, sharing vital resources, and dismantling the stigma that often keeps people silent.

Mental health struggles do not have a single “look.” It could be the 9th-grade student sitting quietly in the back row, carrying a weight far too heavy for their years while thinking of the worst. It could be a dedicated doctor saving lives in the emergency room every single day, while privately contemplating ending their own. Or it could be the comedian who makes an entire room roar with laughter, only to go home to an empty house and cry themselves to sleep.

Suicide touches people across every background, profession, and age. But the powerful truth is that anyone can help save a life. When it comes to supporting someone who is hurting, the path forward is found in three simple steps: The 3 R’s: Recognize, Respond, and Refer.

We probably shouldn’t tell y’all this… but…THE YELLOW BALLOONS ARE COMING. And when you see them… STOP THE CAR! Because that means you’ve found…SALES ALONG HWY 84! SEPTEMBER 10TH • 11TH • 12th. And before you say, “I don’t need anything.” THAT’S WHAT THEY ALL SAY! Because you just never know what’s going to be waiting for you…Household treasures, Random goodies AND NEW STUFF BEING ADDED EVERY. SINGLE. DAY! Which means…WHAT’S HERE TODAY MIGHT BE GONE TOMORROW! You could come looking for a bargain and leave with something you didn’t know existed, didn’t plan to buy, and somehow “absolutely HAD to have.”

Follow the yellow balloons. Follow your curiosity. Follow the bargains.

LOOK FOR THE YELLOW BALLOONS!

Bring your shopping buddy. Bring your cash. Bring your “I’m just looking” face. Because the best garage-sale treasures are the ones you weren’t even looking for!

WHO’S COMING TREASURE HUNTING?!

The Kiwanis Club of Winnfield reminds the community to mark their calendars for the annual Kiwanis Pancake Supper: * Date: September 24 * Time: 5:00 PM * Location: Presbyterian Church Community members are invited to enjoy a pancake dinner, with proceeds directly supporting local youth projects and civic initiatives throughout Winn Parish.

Residents and staff at Autumn Leaves Nursing and Rehabilitation Center gathered outdoors recently for a lighthearted “Wheelchair Wash” activity, offering local seniors a fun way to cool off and stay active.

Photos shared on the facility’s Facebook page capture residents and staff participating in the event, which highlights ongoing efforts at the center to support resident wellness through regular social and physical programming.

Healthcare professionals emphasize that maintaining daily activity and an engaging environment is crucial for senior health. According to long-term care guidelines, participating in routine social activities and gentle movement helps elderly individuals maintain physical mobility, mental sharpness, and emotional well-being.

Events like the “Wheelchair Wash” serve a dual purpose: providing exercise and sensory engagement while fostering positive relationships between residents, staff, and visiting family members.

The Winn Parish Sheriff ’s Office is inviting local high school students to use their creativity to save lives on Louisiana roads by participating in the “Buckle Up, Phone Down” High School Video and Pledge Contest.

The contest, which runs from September 1st through October 31st, is open to all Louisiana high school students in grades 9 through 12. Sponsored by Destination Zero Deaths, AAA, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development (DOTD), the initiative aims to curb distracted driving and increase seat belt usage among young drivers.

To participate, students must produce an original, compelling video that inspires drivers and passengers to buckle their seat belts and keep their phones down every time they get into a vehicle. Additionally, contestants are asked to rally fellow students and members of their local community to take the official “Buckle Up, Phone Down” Pledge.

The Winnfield City Council convened for a special meeting on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. at the Allen Building located at 104 W. Main Street. The meeting marked the second special session called by the council for the week. Council members present included Erikia Breda, Patricia Carter, Megan Glenn, and Matt Miller, while Councilman Michael Mattox was absent.

The Winn Parish Police Jury convened for its regular monthly meeting on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the Winn Parish Courthouse. The session included regular maintenance updates, visits from regional political candidates, the formal announcement of a reactivated local veterans organization, and official action on parish facility improvements.

During the officer reports, Road Superintendent Gavin Snowden and Assistant Road Superintendent Paul Hodnet each presented updates to the jury regarding ongoing parish road maintenance and infrastructure work.

The meeting hosted guest presentations from political candidates running for Louisiana’s Congressional District 5, including Austin Magee and District 22 State Representative Gabe Firment, both of whom addressed the jury.

The City of Winnfield recently held a public hearing and special council meeting to address proposed utility rate adjustments and ongoing infrastructure updates.

The City of Winnfield Recreation Department is excited to announce registration for the 2026 Flag Football League!

Boys & Girls Ages 4–12 Welcome! Registration Fee: $40 Final Registration Deadline: Friday, September 18, 2026 Payments: Must be made at the City of Winnfield Mayor’s Office DON’T MISS THE DEADLINE! Get your child signed up today!

Age Cutoff: November 1, 2026

• Ages 4–6: 4–6 League

• Ages 7–9: 7–9 League

• Ages 10–12: 10–12 League TRYOUTS: Saturday, September 23, 2026 Grove Street Recreation Center – Field #2 COACHES NEEDED!

Interested in coaching this season? We would love to have you join us! Be sure to contact the Recreation Staff for consideration at 318-6280246.

Let’s get our young athletes ready to PLAY, COMPETE & HAVE FUN!