This week, the case of a 2012 arson at a Natchitoches Bed & Breakfast business ended with a plea deal in the 10th Judicial District Court.

On Monday, Dec. 10, 61-year-old Nancy L. Rogers, of Lafayette, entered a plea of guilty to one count of felony Obstruction of Justice, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Rogers was arrested on one count of Simple Arson in connection with a June 2012 fire at the Levy-East Bed & Breakfast, located in the 300 block of Jefferson Street in Natchitoches. The blaze caused more than $500,000 in damage to the unoccupied building and was determined to have been intentionally set.

The three-month long, multi-agency investigation, which included witness statements and evidence placing Rogers at the scene around the time of the fire, led to Rogers’ arrest.

The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office prosecuted the case. Rogers is scheduled for sentencing in February 2019.

To celebrate the holidays, and the reason for the season, the Natchitoches Parish Journal held a live give away Dec. 14 for a Weekend Getaway for one lucky participant. The prize package contains a one-room, two-night hotel stay, travel expenses, and $250 spending money for the winner’s chosen destination within 300 miles of Natchitoches.

Congratulations to the winner: Jennifer Phillips

A bevy of people from surrounding areas entered to win, and their reasons for the trip varied. Some wanted to go to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, some wanted a second honeymoon trip, and some wanted a romantic getaway with their significant others.

Some of the following comments touched us the most when we asked why people wanted to win the trip:

I would give it to my parents. They have been married 43 years and haven’t had a honey moon.

I want to give it to my grandfather who is partially blind. He really needs a vacation.

I’d give it to my son for a weekend getaway before he leaves for the service.

I would give it to my parents. My dad is 76 years old and has never had a vacation. He had to drop out of school in the 2nd grade to take care of his family when his dad went away. He’s worked all of his life.

Could use a weekend get away. Christmas season is a hard time for me after loosing my youngest daughter last year so to some tragic. But her baby made it and that’s my miracle.

My pastor deserves a trip.

This would be a great honeymoon for my husband and I.

The NSU Middle Lab School Drama Club will present the Fall Theatre Showcase on Monday night, December 17, at 5:30PM at the NSU Middle Lab Auditorium. The show, directed by Oona Zbitkovskis with music direction by Dr. Samuel Stokes, will feature monologues, comic skits, musical numbers, and excerpts from the original musical EBENEZER. The show involves approximately 40 Middle Lab Students altogether. Donations to support the NSUM Drama Club will be collected at the door.

Samuel Stokes, music director 816-509-2207 samuelstokes@gmail.com

 

NSU– Northwestern State University conferred degrees to 922 graduates who completed coursework in the Summer 2018 and Fall 2018 semesters. The commencement speaker was State Sen. Gerald Long.

Fall graduates listed by hometown (in Natchitoches and surrounding parishes) are as follows:

Alexandria — Lindsey McGinity, Associate of Science in Nursing; Abbigail Barton, Taylor Benjamin, Bachelor of Arts; Lana Garlington, Bachelor of General Studies;, Aaron Martin, Bachelor of Music Education; Samantha Bergeron, John Bosarge, Samuel Fitzgerald, Bachelor of Science; Karly Constantino, Caitlin Dauzat, Angela Hardin, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Brandi Beaudoin, Kellie Pebbles, Eric Weinzettle, Bachelor of Social Work; Kristina Zachary, Master of Education;

Anacoco — Megan Williams, Bachelor of Arts; Alysia Copen, Kayli O’Toole, Bachelor of Science; Christopher Guy, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Shelby Martin, Master of Arts; Atlanta — Kara Teddlie, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Barksdale AFB — Shalunda Johnson, Bachelor of Science;

Benton — Angelle Hughes, Hebert Poarch, Associate of Science in Nursing; Kimberly Umphries, Bachelor of Applied Science; Tawanda Moore, Educational Specialist; John Lewis, Master of Science;

Bossier City — Jessica Brewer, Stefanie Carter, Tyler Clifford, Michael Davis, Brianna Ellis, Ashley Rangel-Mendoza, Associate of Science in Nursing; Matthew Flynn, Joshua Greer, Teaka Jacobs, Bachelor of Arts; Angelo Hurtado, Jordan Phillips, Bachelor of General Studies; Keyaira Kimble, Bachelor of Science; Jade Reich, Sierra Richard, Kassidy Robideaux, DeShaun Wilson, Bachelor of Science; Traci Adkins, Adriana Avie, Breanna Black, Takeynea Brown, Gina Copeland, Marda David, Jasmine Dillard, Courtney Dismuke, Madison Edwards, Bailey Freeman, Andrea Haynes, Caroline McKee, Jazmine Norton, Nickolas Rizzo, Rhoshunda Tatum, Lacey Velasquez, Julie Golden, Alicia Payton, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Brittany Morris, Susan Stone, Bachelor of Social Work; Mary Zapczynski, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Sue Ellen Bates, Master of Arts in Teaching; Ashlee Nix-Linsley, Master of Education; Daniel Ley, Master of Music;

Boyce — Tiffany Barnhart, Associate Degree, Bachelor of Science; Sarah Hill, Bachelor of Fine Arts;

Campti — Charlene Huffman, Bachelor of Applied Science; Rebekah Cole, Bachelor of Science; Zachary Friday, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Cloutierville — Vanessa Johnson, Bachelor of Science;

Coushatta — LaToya Gray, Erikka Johnson, Associate of General Studies; Dillon Foshee, Bachelor of Arts; Allison Pearah, Bachelor of General Studies; Baley McAlexander, Bachelor of Science; Precious Smith, Bachelor of Social Work;

Dodson – Rachel Broomfield, Brittany Walker, Bachelor of General Studies; Kierstyn Cyrus, Bachelor of Science;

Florien – Jennifer Cotten, Associate of Science in Nursing;

Fort Polk – Bailey Bailey, Amber Ferguson, Amanda Kuhn, Katherine McFarland, Hannah Sweeney, Associate of Science in Nursing; Nadia Charlot, Associate of General Studies; Xaviar Colthirst, Jimma Tear, Bachelor of Science;

Haughton – Kimberly Gray, Audrey Rudy, Associate of Science in Nursing; Shaniece Franklin, Associate of General Studies; Benny Broadway, Savanah Molina, Larissa Wells, Bachelor of Science; Kelcie Ross, Gage Woodburn, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Stephanie Rhynard, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Jena – Dustin McAnn, Master of Arts in Teaching; Malacha Harris, Master of Education;

Leesville – Ian Gibbs, Associate of General Studies, Bachelor of Arts; Yvonne Kenani, Rachel Smith, Payton Soto, Associate of Science in Nursing; Heather Alexander, Jacob Cart, Mercedes Mattes, Gregory McNeal, Associate of General Studies; Larry Nelson,

Bachelor of Applied Science; Ashley French, Bachelor of Arts; Walter Floyd, Alexis Greavu, Bachelor of General Studies; Katrina Brinson, Amy Eckerle, Sean Grady, Gregory Green, Brenda Stracener, Linda Strauss, Haley Tucker, Bachelor of Science; Raven Collins, Ashley Hunt, Jesse Tilghman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Tammy Gavin, Mounira Stephens, Master of Arts; Brittny Cain-Fletcher, Laura Thomas, Master of Arts in Teaching; Karen Hall, Master of Science in Nursing;

Mansfield – Kim Gillyard, Nicolette Hogan, Associate of General Studies; Deammernie Blaze, Chicoindra Davenport, Associate of Science in Nursing;

Many – Emiley Mowad, Associate of Science in Nursing; Karrigan Cooper, Melodie Lovelady, Associate of General Studies; Lisa Scott, Connor Settle, Bailey Walker, Bachelor of Science; Jenifer Meadows, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Candy Branam, Master of Education;

Marthaville – Anita Powell, Bachelor of General Studies;

Natchez – Jolie Bellow, Associate of Science in Nursing; Cyraun Bell, Associate of General Studies;

Natchitoches – Chaka Palm, Gabrielle Walker, Associate of General Studies; Brittany Anthony, Daisha Cohen, Sarah Durkee, Associate of Science in Nursing; Kaitlyn Nieman, Associate Degree; Candice Johnson, Broderick Lynch, Zachary Parker, Aliona Salter, Barbara Suazo, Associate of General Studies; Travis Mitchell, Associate of Science; Leilani Chelette, Tracy Maricle, Bachelor of Arts; Cieara Davis, Kelsy Davis, Richard Duncan, Fred Fontenot, Tyler Henry, Eden Parker, Joseph Parrie, Korey Rachal, Enonedria Thompson, Bachelor of Arts; Cameron Brooks, Lyn Clark, Catherine Davis, Jacob Horton, Bachelor of General Studies; Adrian Alfaro-Fontalvo, James Armstrong, Luz Arrieta Jimenez, Paula Martinez Marrugo, Juan Paternina Paez, Bachelor of Music; Austin Aldredge, Adrian Alfaro-Fontalbo, Ragan Aple, Luz Arrieta Jimenez, Rebecca Autrey, Allison Berry, Angela Boivin, Dustin Burns, Ebone Burton, Franchesca Forest, Samuel Greene, Markarius Hendricks, Anna Jordan, Marcus Luenser, Broderick Lynch, Alba Maloff, Paula Martinez Marrugo, Jessica Perry, Ebony Rax, Kierstin Richter, Alyssa Roberts, Kayla Roquemore, Spencer Sepulvado, Kristan Valdez, Kristina Vujanic, Ryan Wade, Lanae Wilson, Bachelor of Science; Mallie Anderson, Megan Bouchie, Emily Heard, Jayme Johnson, Treasure McGraw, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Zachary Johnson, Jasmine Milsap, Sarah Moody, Sherri Williams, Bachelor of Social Work; Jalie Bills, David Horton, Lisa Jackson, Essitericah Timmon, Chardia Veal, Master of Arts; Shelli Adams, Melanie Smith, Master of Education; Zendra White, Master of Music; Brian Crawford, Raymond McDowell, Vivian Pedroza, Michael Sumner, Master of Science;

Pineville – Amanda Hinson, Mallory Mercuro, Corbi Walters, Associate of General Studies; Justin Lonidier, Joshua Newton, Bachelor of Arts; Thaddaeus Sands, Alan Winegeart, Bachelor of General Studies; Mason Caubarreaux, Cory Franklin, Taylor Holloway, Kaitlyn Jackson, Amani Rice, Christian Van Buren, Caitlyn Woodard, Bachelor of Science; Katelan Gossett, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Diana Corley, Doctor of Nursing Practice;

Provencal – Samantha Toro, Associate of General Studies;

Ringgold – Regan Edwards, Kayla Hullaby, Bachelor of Science; Lauren Nelson, Bachelor of Social Work;

Robeline – Alicia Watley, Associate of Science in Nursing; Clayton Carr, Bachelor of Arts; Megan Maley, Christopher Taylor, Bachelor of General Studies; Amy Bass, Bachelor of Science; Rebecca Rachal, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Saline – Shalonda Daniels, Associate of General Studies;

Shreveport – Brittany Anderson, Kristen Berry, Romelia Borges, Sarah Bozeman, Kiuntai Bryant, Kathryn Cunningham, Anna Ezernack, Lauren Jeansonne, Tanisha McCoy, Tiffany McMurry, Sherri Oswalt, Kandice Pullen, Jacqueline Pracht, Charles Reyes, Dita Walker, Associate of Science in Nursing; Tyler Cummings, Associate Degree; Foster Adams, Yvonda Bennett, Connor Cowan, William Killebrew, Francesca McDowell, Associate of General Studies; Shalanda Duncan, Joshenia Johnson, Jiminia Rhymes, Bachelor of Applied Science; James Baldwin, Shanautica Montgomery, Nicese Moese, Mallori Sanders, Bachelor of Arts; Lindsey Adkins, Kristin Welch, Bachelor of General Studies; Derienne Copeland, Bachelor of Music Education; Phillip Adams, Anquaneshia Burnham, Brashaun Cornelius, Tyler Cummings, Amye Flaire, Sterlin Foster, Lashonda Hall, Ainsley Johnson-Braden, Luis Juneau, Colton Kennedy, Tatyanna Kinsey, Brandon Lewis-Graham, Madison Milligan, Reondrick Owens, Carribean Richardson, Jasmin Samuels, Donald Williams, Suzenne Williams, Ansonia Wisner, Morgan Woodall, Bachelor of Science; Kevin Aycock, Elizabeth Baker, Tylar Bedford, Ebony Carey, Tiffany Carr, Caitlin Coker, Kwinica Davidson, Sierra Foster, Zachary Fussell, Michael Ghattas, Hallie Glick, Mariah Hester, Heather Hickman, Randall Johnston, Jared Perkins, Kendall Sanford, Sherando Satcher, Adrianna Smith, Karen Smith, Kaylin Smith, Chandra Walker, Camika Wilson-Price, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Ashleigh Grace, Bachelor of Social Work; Nancy Alexander, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Richard Scott, Education Specialist; Briana Craige, Master of Arts; Deidra Loston, Kya Warren, Master of Arts in Teaching; Pamela Jordan, Samantha Scott, Master of Education;

Winnfield – Katrina County, Bachelor of Arts; Kristin Lusk, Associate of Science in Nursing; Matthew Craig, Bachelor of Arts; Caitlin Durbin, Chasity Jordan, Bachelor of General Studies; Katy Zimmerman, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Mia County, Bachelor of Social Work; Venus Nears, Matthew Whitaker, Master of Arts;

Zwolle – Leah Hall, Associate of Science in Nursing; Hillary Charles, Bachelor of Arts; Joshua Rivers, Bachelor of Science; Kamryn Bedsole, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Summer graduates listed by hometown (in Natchitoches and surrounding parishes) were:

Alexandria – Jasmine Franklin, Anthony White, Associate of General Studies; Angela Dunn, Bachelor of Applied Science; Tre’Mesha Thomas, Bachelor of General Studies; Derranique Dabney, Jacob Goad, Georgia Moran, Bachelor of Science; Henry Roderick, Cody LaFleur, Emily Rachal, Tamela Rasberry, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Justin Guidry, Master of Science; Tadriel Jones, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Barksdale AFB – Aleigh Rosenberry, Bachelor of Applied Science;

Bossier City – Nancy George, Associate of General Studies; Kathleen Dupaty, Bachelor of General Studies; Laura Vance, Bachelor of Science; Jessica Alvarenga, Abigail Barkley, Clay Carroll, Jennifer Cooley, Chase Daughdrill, Gerald Forrest, Vivian Harper, Andrea Kabobel, Lauren Lindy, Micaela Markham, Kasey McClain, Gennadiy Vevrenyuk, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Anna Morris, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Catherine Martin, Karen Santora, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Boyce – Kaila Reaves, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Campti – Jordan Rowell, Bachelor of General Studies;

Coushatta – Roshawanda Taylor, Macie Wood, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Fort Polk – Allyson Predmore, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Jena – Carmeisha Howard, Madison Robertson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Leesville – Megan Beard, Associate of General Studies; Bruce Stone, Bachelor of Arts; Ronicia Howze, Bachelor of Science; Emily Jackson, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Lena – Bridget Goff, Bachelor of Science;

Many – Michael Stephenson, Bachelor of Fine Arts;

Natchitoches – Tomas Parker, Melinda Reliford, Christina Shields, Associate of General Studies; Candice Richardson, Bachelor of Arts; Katherine Taylor, Bachelor of Fine Arts; Hannah Deloney, MacKenzie Ferguson, Bachelor of Science; Tarah Lott, Abbey Martin, Theresa Stelly, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Alanna Sepulvado, Post Baccalaureate Certificate; Alicia Carr, Bachelor of General Studies; Jon Lentz, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Oak Grove – Heather Allen, Bachelor of General Studies;

Pineville – Kelsie Briggs, Samantha Waldron, Jaclyn Whatley, Associate of General Studies; Kaylin Jameson, Shannon Kessler, Aaron Myers, Rylee Parker, Shaqunda Peters, Lizzie Slaughter, Timothy Smith, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Steven Davis, Master of Education; Jerri Phillips, Raquel Wiley, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Provencal – Melaney Dupree, Bachelor of Science;

Saline – Jerry Blanchard, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Shreveport – Bria Dawson, Krista Forch, Tiffany. Hall, Nicholas Small, Jordan Stroud, Anthony Taylor, Kanisha Tisby, LaBrodrick Wilson, Associate of General Studies; Nicholas Fry, Shauntavia Green, Bachelor of Arts; Ava Cook, Shauna Ferguson, Bachelor of General Studies; Petronel Harris, Jolanta Marshall, Baylee Shephard, Harley Waters, Bachelor of Science; Baylee Aultman, Caroline Bowman, Castaralla Brown, Clyesha Chambers, Quenita Edwards, Natalie Hirsch, Danica Hobley, Monica Holloway, Melinda Hunt, Katherine Jaynes, Shelby Jennings, Lakenya Lafitte, Erica McLaurin, Toni McLendon, Jarred Sepulvado, Gia-Caroline Weber, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Jaime Usie, Leah Ann Young, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Jessica Plunkett, Master of Arts in Teaching; Krystyna Tabor, Master of Science in Nursing; Maureen Barclay, Hallie Franks, Jessica Jones, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Zwolle – Hunter Malmay, Bachelor of Science; Erin Rivers, Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Celebrity Chef Lidia Bastianich is an Emmy award-winning television host, best-selling cookbook author, and restaurateur who travels across the United States in celebration of culture through food. Natchitoches was chosen as one of those stops, spotlighting Creole food and culture on Cane River. The Creole Heritage Center would like for you to share in the excitement of the premiere air date. Mark your calendars and Set your recorders for:

December 24, 2018 at 8 pm on Prime-Time LPB Television Station!

Featured in the show are:

Lillie Delphin making gumbo; Theresa Morgan making mint tea; and Vera Severin making tea cakes!

Also filmed was a session with Rodney Meziere and Dustin Fuqua who discussed and demonstrated the art of making filé.

Share it far and wide. We hope you enjoy it.
Lidia Celebrates America… airs Louisiana LPB 12/24/18 at 8pm!

LSMSA- On Thursday, Dec. 13, the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) Foundation gifted $2,777.48 toward wellness initiatives at the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA). The grant was received by the LSMSA Foundation.

The LSMSA Foundation, a non-profit extension of LSMSA, works to provide support to the school by offering enrichment opportunities, necessary equipment, and resources that will enhance classroom instruction.

The funding from the NRMC Foundation will complete necessary inventory in the school’s Fitness Center and will be used to purchase a glute/hamstring machine, a Stairmaster and weight plates. The grant will also be used to add blood pressure cuffs to the center’s nurse’s station and hand sanitizer stations around campus.

Tom Matuschka, vice president of business development and philanthropy at NRMC, says that funding was provided to LSMSA because the school’s proposed project went hand-in-hand with the NRMC Foundation’s overall objective.

“The NRMC Foundation chose to support LSMSA’s project because it fits right with our mission to improve the health and wellness of our community,” stated Matuschka, “and LSMSA is a core pillar of our community. We have a history of foundational support to the school, making this the fourth time we have granted funding to LSMSA.”

As an alum of the Class of 1990 and father of a recent LSMSA graduate, Matuschka has confidence that the money will be put to good use.

​“I was not a voting member, and while I recused myself, I was happy to help curate the process, bring the application through the system, and get it in front of our board, who enthusiastically approved funding for the project.”

Jacob Spielbauer, senior lecturer and coordinator of the Health and Physical Education Program at LSMSA, has been overseeing the Fitness Center at the school and believes it can improve the well-being of students and faculty alike.

“We would just like to thank the NRMC board for the grant,” said Spielbauer. “It will truly help increase our resources,increase our students’, faculty and staff’s awareness towards physical activity and fitness and give our students more opportunities in the Fitness Center at LSMSA.”

The Fitness Center was established to encourage healthy habits in students while also providing them alternative coping skills for their often strenuous course-loads.

“Evidence shows that incorporating physical fitness can increase academic performance,” expressed Spielbauer. “The more alert we are, the better we perform in and out of the classroom.”

Physical education courses at LSMSA include yoga, boxing, and weight training as well as other traditional physical education courses. The Fitness Center is open and free to all students who attend the school.

On December 13, 2018 at approximately 6:50 PM the Natchitoches Police Department received a 911 Call stating that a male subject had been shot near the Texas St. Grocery, officers of the Natchitoches Police Department responded to the reported shooting and located a black, male, subject, 23 year old, Robert Griffin who had been shot and later succumbed to his injuries.

The Natchitoches Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division was contacted and immediately responded and began an investigation into the homicide. Detectives were able to obtain information which led them to obtain an Arrest Warrant for Second Degree Murder, for one, Tranndon Jerrod Mitchell, Black, Male, D.O.B. 09/15/1998, of 1112 North Fifth St., Natchitoches, LA. In addition, a Search Warrant was executed at the residence of Mitchell however he was not located at the residence.

On Friday, December 14, 2018 at 6:45 PM Tranndon Mitchellsurrendered to authorities at the Natchitoches Police Departmentand was later booked on one charge of R.S. 14:30.1 Second Degree Murder. Mr. Mitchell was later transported out to the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center where he awaits bond.

The Natchitoches Police Department is still urging anyone who has information about the shooting to contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or you may contact the Natchitoches Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, DetectiveSergeant Bobby Beard at (318) 238-3914. All calls shall be kept confidential.

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Donald Ray Ashcraft
April 21, 1951 – December 13, 2018
Service: Sunday, December 16 at 2 pm at First United Methodist Church Crossroads
Graveside Service: Monday, December 17 at 10 am at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Keithville

Mabel Moran Metoyer
December 3, 1910 – December 13, 2018
Visitation: Tuesday, December 18 from 9-10:30 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Service: Tuesday, December 18 at 11 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Interment: St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery

Derrick Sharold Brown`
May 13, 1982 – December 14, 2018
Arrangements TBA

Al Joseph Lacey
October 31, 1950 – December 3, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, December 15 from 9-10 am at the St. Savior Baptist Church Church (Grand Ecore)
Service: Saturday, December 15 at 10 am at the St. Savior Baptist Church Church
Interment: Fern Park Cemetery on Texas Street
CADDO PARISH:

James Allen “Toby” Cooper Sr.
1942 – 2018Visitation: Saturday, December 15 from 1-2 pm at Rose-Neath Southside Chapel in ShreveportService: Saturday, December, 15 at 2 pm at Rose-Neath Funeral Home

SABINE PARISH:

June Procell Harley
January 17, 1924 – December 12, 2018
Service: Saturday, December 15 at 2 pm at Warren Meadows Funeral Home Chapel
Interment: Fisher Cemetery

RAPIDES PARISH:

Michael Lee “Uncle Mike Johnson
April 17, 1958 – December 13, 2018
Service: Saturday, December 15 from 2-4 pm in the chapel of Kramer of Colfax

James Grayson
June 3, 1927 – December 13, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, December 15 from 9 am – 2 pm in the Kramer Chapel
Service: Saturday, December 15 at 2 pm in the Chapel of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Interment: Alexandria Memorial Gardens

WINN PARISH:

Melba Verlene Franklin
June 28, 1938 – December 12, 2018
Service: Saturday, December 15 at 11 am in the chapel of Kinner and Stevens Funeral Home in Jena
Interment: Woodland Cemetery, east of Jena

Nelwyn Thompson Basco
June 20, 1929 – December 13, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, December 15 from 12-2 pm at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield
Service: Saturday, December 15 at 2 pm in the Chapel of Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield
Interment: Hurricane Grove Cemetery near Sikes

OTHER:

William R. Quinn Sr.
Visitation begins Saturday, December 15 at 10 with services following at 11 am at Oak Grove Baptist Church, located at 17450 Old Jefferson Hwy. in Prairieville

 

During the early morning hours on Friday, December 14, 2018 around 5:39 AM the Natchitoches Police Department received a call from a concerned citizen stating that a black male subject was walking in the roadway near Natchitoches Central High School. Prior to officers arrival Mr. Brandon Jackson called and requested an ambulance because he had struck a pedestrian in the roadway. The injured pedestrian, Derrick Brown, approximately 34 years of age was immediately transported to the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

As this investigation is continuing no additional information shall be released at this time. If anyone has and additional information about this accident please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101. All calls shall be kept confidential.

Authorized by:
Chief Micky Dove
12/14/2018

The Natchitoches Parish School Board would like to address a misunderstanding that occurred when it attempted to reinforce policies on how spelling is taught within the district’s curriculum. The misunderstanding caused an upset among parents who fell under the impression that spelling would no longer be taught to students.

This is not the case. NPSB believes that Spelling is one of the fundamental subskills of effective written communication. NPSB also believes the goal of spelling instruction should not be temporary memorization of words but rather the development of skills to be able to correctly represent our written language. Teaching spelling in isolation leads to a temporary memorization of words that are not connected to current learning. For example, a weekly assignment that highlights a list of words that is not connected to students’ current writing and reading goals will not transfer into long-term memory. Research has shown that children retain information, such as how to spell words, better when it’s presented to them in meaningful context. This means that students are taught new words that are connected to their everyday experiences and exposure to quality texts, allowing students to be actively engaged in the learning process.

NPSB is committed to ensuring that all students are exposed to research-based instructional strategies in order to preserve life-long learning. In addition, all curriculum programs adopted in Natchitoches Parish are aligned to the Louisiana State Standards, which state explicit goals for spelling within each grade. In addition, spelling is assessed through students’ weekly writing and on state standardized test through students’ writing.

Below are all the standards addressing spelling:  CLICK HERE – to visit Website

Grade K:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

Grade 1:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

1. Capitalize dates and names of people.
2. Use end punctuation for sentences.
3. Use commas in dates and to separate single words in a series.
4. Use conventional spelling for words with common spelling patterns and for frequently occurring irregular words.
5. Spell untaught words phonetically, drawing on phonemic awareness and spelling conventions.

Grade 2:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

1. Capitalize holidays, product names, and geographic names.
2. Use commas in greetings and closings of letters.
3. Use an apostrophe to form contractions and frequently occurring possessives.
4. Generalize learned spelling patterns when writing words (e.g., cage → badge; boy → boil).
5. Consult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings.

Grade 3:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

1. Capitalize appropriate words in titles.
2. Use commas in addresses.
3. Use commas and quotation marks in dialogue.
4. Form and use possessives.
5. Use conventional spelling for high-frequency and other studied words and for adding suffixes to base words (e.g., sitting, smiled, cries, happiness).
6. Use spelling patterns and generalizations (e.g., word families, position-based spellings, syllable patterns, ending rules, meaningful word parts) in writing words.
7. Consult reference materials, including beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct spellings.

Grade 4:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

1. Use correct capitalization.
2. Use commas and quotation marks to mark direct speech and quotations from a text.
3. Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence.
4. Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.

Grade 5:

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.

1. Use punctuation to separate items in a series.
2. Use a comma to separate an introductory element from the rest of the sentence.
3. Use a comma to set off the words yes and no (e.g., Yes, thank you), to set off a tag question from the rest of the sentence (e.g., It’s true, isn’t it?), and to indicate direct address (e.g., Is that you, Steve?).
4. Use underlining, quotation marks, or italics to indicate titles of works.
5. Spell grade-appropriate words correctly, consulting references as needed.

It was announced today by Peggy Braxton, Chief Volunteer Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of El Camino Real, that after 29 years of service to youth, the Boys & Girls Club will close their doors effective January 1, 2019. Braxton stated that the organization was closing due to growing costs of running an organization.

Braxton stated that thousands of children have participated in the Boys & Girls Club since its inception in 1989 and have benefited from programs such as homework help classes, field trips, drug prevention classes, character development and more. Braxton also expressed deepest appreciation to all , but especially to Calvin Braxton and Natchitoches Ford, Alliance Compressors, City of Natchitoches, Roy O’Martin, NSU, Coach McConathy, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, Cane River Charities, Cane River Meat Pie Festival and many, many more donors and volunteers that have helped the organization throughout the years.

Peggy stated that she hopes that the future holds an opportunity for a Boys & Girls Club to be re-established in Natchitoches as the children and families certainly deserve the opportunities a Boys & Girls Club program can provide.

Roughly 100 pizzas were served up to 80 Veterans, Active Military, Police Officers, Fire Fighters and First Responders. Twenty Lions Club Members and volunteers also enjoyed the delicious pizza, provided by Michele and Louis Smith: Owners of Louie’s Pizza and Prayer, and desserts provided by the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. Psalm Shield 91 was also on hand with free hugs, prayers and goodie bags.

Raffles were held for several handmade Wooden Flags, which were donated by the Smiths.

Winners were:

First Responder Flag was won by Terry Nelson, EMS at NRMC

Fire Fighter Flag was won by Mike Harrell, NPFD

The Veteran Flag was won by Johnny Possoit. Johnny served our country now he also serves as a volunteer Fireman.

The Police Officer Flag was won by Captain Shannon Larche of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Department.

The flags were made by Justin Scott, an Army combat veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF III). The very first flag was created in his garage while trying to replicate a wooden version of his DCU Combat patch, a stained design with the touch of hand chiseled stars. A friend purchased the item as an anniversary present for her husband, and soon thereafter, several friends were seeking to buy one of these fantastic pieces. Popularity grew very quickly over social media, and so did the demand. Justin asked his fellow veteran friends to join in the venture and attempt to create The Rustic Flag Company based around Military values and ethics.

NSU- Northwestern State University will be closed Dec. 17 – Jan. 1 for the winter break. Administrative offices will reopen Wednesday, Jan. 2. Spring 2018 classes begin Monday, Jan. 14.

Watson Library will close Dec. 14 at noon and will reopen Tuesday, Jan. 2.

The Randall J. Webb Wellness Recreation and Activity Center will be closed Dec. 23 – 25 and Dec. 30 – Jan. 1. Hours of operation through Jan. 14 will be 5:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Lisa Hay, BOM Branch Manager and Lender in Ringgold, Jana Freeman Forrest, BOM Branch Manager and Lender in Shreveport, Katrice Below, BOM Branch Manager and Lender in Natchitoches, and Mandy Hay, BOM Branch Manager in Castor, successfully completed the 2018 Leadership School, “Growing our Next Generation of Leaders,” a six-month program that included online course work and five instructor led sessions focused on developing leadership skills and enhancing knowledge in various areas of banking.

The program provided by the Louisiana Bankers Association and held in Baton Rouge at The Bankers Center, hosts students from all over the state. The 2018 session marked the 9th year of the program.

The Louisiana Bankers Association is the professional trade association for commercial banks and thrifts in Louisiana. Founded in 1900, the LBA works to provide advocacy, communication, education and other services to its member institutions, and to provide banking information to the general public.