The Parish Council and President took their oaths of office during an Inauguration Ceremony Jan. 11 at the Natchitoches Parish Courthouse.

Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Sue Weaver, welcomed guests and spoke about what the council accomplished in the past year, including putting the Parish Council in sound financial footing. She mentioned the economical development work that has been accomplished, the implementation of the Road Maintenance Priority System and $9,000,000 in State funding that has been secured for Parish projects. Weaver also commended each of the previous Parish Council members on their personal strengths.

The Natchitoches Central High School JR. ROTC posted the colors and Arthur Welch led the pledge of Allegiance. Crystal Dunning of Northwestern State University sang the National Anthem and Rev. Bill Hudson led the invocation.

Louie Bernard administered the oaths of office to Parish Council Members including Chris Paige, Patsy Ward Hoover, Doug De Graffenried, Rodney Bedgood and Russell Rachal. After Bernard administered Rick Nowlin’s oath of office Nowlin eagerly addressed the audience thanking everyone involved in the Parish Council.

“I’ve learned a great deal” said Nowlin. “I’ve been to places I didn’t even know existed. I believe our Parish government has made substantial improvements. Most importantly we have fostered a higher trust in government.We can take pride in our achievements but we have a lot of work to do. We will not let ourselves be divided. I am 100 percent committed to making progress in this Parish, I am all in.”

Weaver returned to the podium and spoke of the talents the new members possess. The Natchitoches Central High School JR. ROTC retired the colors and Rev. Conway Jones led the closing benediction.