2016 Miss Northwestern Lady of the Bracelet Marissa McMickens of Pineville

Marissa McMickens of Pineville, was named winner of the 58^th Annual Miss Northwestern – Lady of the Bracelet Pageant held Friday at Northwestern State University.

McMickens, a junior theatre major, received more than $7,000 in scholarships and prizes and will represent Northwestern State in June’s Miss Louisiana Pageant in Monroe.

McMickens is active in Northwestern Theatre and Dance and is a member of the NSU Dance Company, Broadway to Go and Make Your Own Theatre. McMickens is a member of Phi Mu Fraternity.

Chelsey Goldsmith of Edmond, Oklahoma was first runner up, Faith Stanfield of Natchitoches was second runner up, Hannah Teutsch of Haughton was third runner up and Skilynn Fontenot of Eunice was fourth runner up. Goldsmith won the talent competition, Stanfield won the swimsuit competition and McMickens received the Liz Carroll People’s Choice Award selected by the pageant audience.

Ragan Aple of Shreveport was named Miss Congeniality and Lincoln Pearce of Florien won the Children Miracle Network Miracle Maker Award.

Top finishers in the 2016 Miss Northwestern – Lady of the Bracelet pageant were, from left, third runner up Hannah Teutsch of Haughton, first runner up Chelsey Goldsmith of Edmond, Oklahoma, 2016 Miss Northwestern Lady of the Bracelet Marissa McMickens of Pineville, second runner up Faith Stanfield of Natchitoches and fourth runner up Skilynn Fontenot of Eunice.

William and Elaine Durand of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, established a scholarship at their alma mater, Northwestern State University, to honor a beloved teacher and mentor. The Sam Shelton Math Scholarship will be presented to an upper level student majoring in math. From left are Jill Bankston and Drake Owens of the NSU Foundation with Elaine and Wiliams Durand.

An Arkansas couple established an endowed scholarship in memory of a former math professor at Northwestern State University who was a special teacher and mentor.  William and Elaine Squyres Durand of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, established the Sam Shelton Math Scholarship through the NSU Foundation.  Shelton was Mr. Durand’s math teacher at NSU, as well as a close friend who encouraged him to pursue advanced degrees.

“I have had a wonderful teaching career and it all began at Northwestern 58 years ago with the guidance of my wonderful mentor, Sam Shelton,” Durand said.   “I have tried to emulate him as I have guided students through their degree programs.  He set an example that I have strived to replicate.”

The scholarship will be awarded to a junior or senior level student majoring in math who maintains a 3.0 or better grade point average.

Durand enrolled at Northwestern as a first generation college student who wanted to become a mathematics teacher.

“Mr. Shelton was one of the best teachers I have ever had. He took a poor farm boy from Pollock High School and guided him to the B.S. in 1962 and M.S. in 1963 in mathematics,” Durand said.  “During that first year Mr. Shelton became my best friend on campus.  He always welcomed me to his office and would put aside whatever he was working on to help me with whatever problem I was having.  My problems were not always about mathematics.”

Before, Durand completed his undergraduate degree, Shelton was already encouraging him to pursue a master’s degree.  After teaching for one semester at South Terrebonne High School in Houma, Durand began work on his master’s degree, which he completed in 1963, and went to work at Live Oak High School in Watson.  He taught two summers at NSU as a visiting lecturer.

Durand joined the faculty at Henderson State Teachers College, later named Henderson State University, in Arkadelphia in 1966 and completed his EdD with emphasis in mathematics at Oklahoma State University in 1972. Returning to Henderson State, he rose in the ranks to professor and eventually department chair.

“In 2005 I was awarded the degree of Distinguished Professor of Mathematics,” Durand said.  “Even though I retired as Distinguished Professor of Mathematics, Emeritus in 2007 I have continued to teach one or two senior level/graduate level mathematics classes each semester.

Durand and his wife Elaine married in 1967, the year she earned a degree in elementary education at NSU, and they are the parents of Dr. Kevin Durand and Dr. Eileen Durand Faulkenberry.  Kevin is the Dean of Students at a charter school in Little Rock as well as the AP calculus and physics teacher.  Eileen is professor of mathematics education at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. The Durands have seven grandchildren, two grandsons, five granddaughters.

“Endowing this scholarship in memory of Mr. Shelton has been my desire for a long time,” Durand said.  “I hope that it will be a stimulus and financial help for students long into the future.  Northwestern State University has been good to and for me and my wife.”

Natchitoches Parish Port Commission
 Regular Meeting
Time of Meeting:  8:30 AM
Date of Meeting: January 18, 2016
Place of Meeting:  Natchitoches Parish Port Commission
Natchitoches, Louisiana  71457
Regular Meeting
AGENDA

I.                    Roll Call
II.                  Approval of Minutes
III.               Activity Report
IV.                Treasurer’s Report
V.                  Old Business

Discussion regarding status of projects
1.       Red River Flood Impacts
VI.                New Business
VII.             Executive Session
1.        Personnel Matters
2.        Litigation Matters

Potential litigation
Natchitoches Parish Port Commission v. DeBlieux & Kelly, Inc., Case No. 73,994B, 10^th Judicial District Court, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana

VIII.           Other Business                                  

ADJOURNMENT

NSU students Hannah Haigh, Savanah Meredith and Alexander Anderson, from left, will spend the spring semester at Université D’Angers in France. The three are majoring in hospitality management and tourism and hope the experience of living abroad will be an enrichment to their coursework.

Three Northwestern State University students are spending their spring semester abroad at Université D’Angers in France where they hope the experience of living abroad will enhance their coursework in hospitality management and tourism. University D’Angers is the third second largest hospitality school in the world.

Alexander Anderson of Pineville, Hannah Haigh of Robeline and Savanah Meredith of Haughton will begin classes later this month.  The classes will be taught in English, but all three hope to improve their French language skills and learn to adapt to a different culture through immersion.

Anderson, a senior, hopes to gain a better view of different cultures, history, language and cuisine.

“Language and communication, tourism and culture studies are the classes that I will be taking,” he said.  “This will be a whole new world with different people and way of life.”

“I hope to gain more knowledge about the culture, learn how to adapt in a completely different environment, hopefully learn a few things about myself, learn some French, and — fingers crossed — figure out what I want to do for a career,” said Meredith, a junior.   “I have never travelled outside of the country, which is why I have always been intrigued by the idea of studying abroad. I have always wanted to travel as I was never able to growing up. I believe traveling is an experience needed in order to become a more well-rounded individual.”

“I hope to learn much about the French culture and how they live,” said Haigh, a sophomore.  “My goal in life has always been to travel and broaden my horizons because life is short and there is so much to learn.  I will be taking courses in French culture and language, Loire Valley Castles, Food Culture Management, marketing wine and related products, and tourism destination.”

Haigh was born in England and has visited that country many times as well as visiting Paris.

“My family and I have always traveled, and I absolutely love it,” she said.  “I have always known that traveling the world is what I want to do, and knew hospitality management and tourism was the perfect major for me. I have always been told that talk is cheap, and if you want to do it then do it. If you get the opportunity to go somewhere to learn something new, never hesitate because you will regret it in the long run. I know that this Study Abroad Program will be very rewarding in every aspect of my life, and I am really looking forward to it.”

“We couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity these students are taking advantage of,” said Valerie Salter, HMT instructor. “I am planning for them to Skype with my study tour prep class on a weekly basis and also plan on creating a blog so that they can update and provide vlogs throughout their experience there.”

Travel experiences available to students through the HMT program are invaluable in training them for the industry, Salter said.

“Students will be immersed in French culture, study European tourism, travel on field trips to Loire Valley destinations and take French language courses,” Salter said.  “In addition, they will be centrally located in France and able to explore major tourism destinations on their own. This immersion and coursework provide our students with real world and first hand tourism knowledge that will give them a marketable advantage upon graduation.”

Salter said HMT faculty plan to continuing their partnership with Université d’Angers to receive French students and send NSU students to France again in Spring 2017.  She has worked with colleagues in NSU’s Department of English, Foreign Language and Cultural Studies to create more study abroad opportunities for students.

“We are certainly interested in any study abroad opportunities that enrich our students’ college careers and their marketability,” Salter said.  “I am aware of agreements that are already in place between NSU and the University of Valencia in Spain, and I plan to start checking into placing students there. We hope to add more study abroad destinations in the near future.”

When one is born in the state of Alabama there is a ritual of declaration.

The ritual happens very soon after a child learns to speak, within weeks of the child’s first intonation of “mom” and “dad.” The child declares their allegiance to Alabama or Auburn. Since diphthongs are difficult for children, a hearty “Roll Tide” or “War Eagle” is acceptable. Growing up we were not Catholic or Protestant, rich or poor, we were Alabama or Auburn.

I was thinking about this Monday night. The Baptist preacher, who lives next door, was obviously hosting a Bible Study at his house. His driveway was full. Cars were parked along the street. I was thinking, “isn’t that nice of the preacher to hold that Bible study on Monday night.” He didn’t invite me to his Bible study.I am certain he was explaining the ritual of declaration with members of his congregation. Unless you are from the state of Alabama you really can’t fully appreciate the ritual. He understands.

Someone asked me Sunday if we were hosting a party at our house to watch the game? I was not going to host a party. Have you ever really tried to watch the Super Bowl at a Super Bowl party? I don’t want to disturb my football watching trying to host a party or a Bible study. I want to be able to act out appropriately as I view the football game.

This brings me to my last Dora story for a while.

Dora, who loves moles, hates football. When a football game is on the television, she is as far away from the television as she can stand. She won’t leave the room as long as her adults are present. If we are in the room watching the game, Dora is going to be in the room despite her gridiron disdain. She whimpers and whines through the football game. It happened with every Alabama game I watched this fall. We have guessed it might have something to do with the crowd noise coming through the television. We know she is not a fan of Kirk Herbstreit or Gary Danielson.She doesn’t like College Game Day either, especially Lee Corso.

Monday night Dora was in misery. Her tail was tucked. She was hiding behind my chair loudly whining. We muted the sound and she was still miserable. At one point I picked her up and held her while she shivered. She finally calmed down when the game was over. I have a dog that is afraid of football. I will never conclude she dislikes Alabama football. She does hide while the Tide is playing. LSU football does not seem to bother her.

I think Dora was upset because her adults were acting foolishly. There was some whooping and hollering. There were sounds of disgust. There were even moments when the temptation to use adult language was present. I did wonder if the Bible study next door was as animated. Dora didn’t like all the activity of her adults. Usually we are reading, watching the tube, or working on Excel spreadsheets and we are quiet.

Not this night.All of the noise and turmoil during the game, noise and turmoil she didn’t understand, was upsetting to our mole loving canine.

I can’t teach Dora the Biblical concept of peace. Peace, the way the Bible teaches it, is not the absence of turmoil or noise. Peace is the ability to live through the turmoil and noise knowing you will arrive safely at your destination.

God will never mute the noise. You might not ever understand the turmoil and noise in your life. God will give you peace so that you can live through the noise and turmoil. He is always present with you, no matter what. He will hold you until you know the fullness of the joy that is ours in Christ.

CALL TO ORDER, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, ROLL CALL FOR DETERMINATION OF A QUORUM PRESENT

Absent: Altorio Holden

 SUPERINTENDENT/STAFF REPORTS

Director of Instruction and Curriculum, Laura McClain, went over the Natchitoches Parish School performance scores that were released by the Louisiana State Department of Education on Dec. 17.

“We are excited about the results,” said McClain. “We feel like we are moving in the right direction.”

The Natchitoches Parish School District maintained the letter grade C with a rise in the performance score from 77.2 to a 81.4, a growth of 4.2 points. The District grew in all seven areas and received all 10 progress points showing growth.

“We still have a long way to get where we need to be, but I am very proud of what the staff, students and everyone did to achieve these scores,” said Superintendent Dale Skinner.

To view 2015 Natchitoches Parish School District Report Card visit http://www.scribd.com/doc/293754012/2015-District-Report-Card

OLD BUSINESS

N/A

NEW BUISNESS

1.Election of Natchitoches Parish School Board Officers for 2016

The board voted for a new School Board President. The board unanimously elected Ralph Wilson who ran unopposed. There were two nominees for Vice President including Carroll Daniels and Michael Hilton. The board elected Daniels with a six to four vote.

“I think we had two good people running,” said Daniels.

CONSENT AGENDA

Permission is requested from the School Board for:

1. Adoption of Agenda – Approved
2. Approval of the Minutes of Dec. 3 – Approved
3. Finance Items

Out of State Travel:

Major Bob Kellogg, Senior Aerospace Science instructor Lakeview High School, May 23-25, 2016 travel to Fort Worth, TX. Chaperoning fifty AFJROTC cadets visiting Carswell Joint Readiness Base and DFW Airport. Trip to be funded by the Air Force JROTC. – Approved.

FINANCE, FACILITIES, SERVICES and INSURANCE REPORT

1. Take Appropriate Action on Bids:
2. Receive Transportation Report
3. Receive Tax Commission Report
4. Accept School Student Activity Fund Audit for 2015- Tabled until next meeting
5. Accept Basic Financial Statements ands Independent auditor’s Reports as of and for the year ending June 30, 2015
6. Consider approving a resolution exercising the Board’s option to re-purchase two separate tracts of land located in Section 2, Township 10 North, Range 9 West of Natchitoches Parish, that were sold by the Natchitoches Parish Schoool Board to Allen Recreational Center on Aug. 2, 1983. The land was sold for $125.35 and would be re-purchased for the same amount.

Board Members discussed the resolution before voting examining their lawyer’s statement and considering possible liability issues.

“Buy it back and sell it,” said Daniels.

“It is a good investment opportunity,” said R.Wilson

“I think we should keep the mineral rights,” said Emile Metoyer

“That is a good idea,” said Skinner in response to Metoyer

The vote passed with everyone present voting yes with exception of Joella Wilson who voted no.

“My thoughts are writing the letter then writing the check,” said Supervisor of Business Affairs Steven Solomon. “Lets get everything ready before we actually buy it that way we can get it on the market as soon as possible, limiting the window of liability.”

Receive Budget Committee Report.

PERSONNEL REPORT
Receive personnel update.

EXECUTIVE REPORT

1. LDOE Allocated Child Care Assistance Pilot Program
2. Overview from new Natchitoches Parish Librarian Mrs. McGrath.- Postponed
3. Community Outreach; ERW Foundation and First Baptist Church-Amulet.
4. Natchitoches Connections Academy and Learning Center (Alternative School).

Board Members discussed the renaming of the Frankie Ray Jackson Sr. Technical Center before the vote citing the need for more community input. The Board was hesitantabout the name change. Previous tension from the naming of Natchitoches Junior High – Frankie Ray Jackson School lingered.

“I don’t think we should go through name changing again,” said Harry Graham.

Thomas Melder moved to table the vote and received a second from Steven Harris. The vote was successfully tabled.

Victoria Harris

Northwestern State’s Class of 2016 grew a little earlier than expected.

Second-year coach Sean Kiracofe announced the addition of University of Cincinnati transfer Victoria Harris on Thursday.

Harris, a 6-foot-1 outside hitter/right side, spent the fall semester of her freshman season with the Bearcats but did not appear in a match. She will be eligible to compete for Northwestern State in the 2016 season.

“We are thrilled to have Victoria join the program and very fortunate to be able to have her in Natchitoches for the spring semester,” Kiracofe said. “While getting to know Victoria and her family we knew she would fit in well with our team’s personality and, in just a few days, that has proven to be the case. It has been a smooth transition in a very short amount of time.”

Prior to attending Cincinnati, Harris was a four-year starter at Oak Ridge High School in Conroe, Texas.

In her prep career, Harris helped lead her team to a combined 100-32 record and was a four-time all-district selection and an honorable mention all-state selection as a senior.

Harris’ club resume includes a national runner-up finish with the Houston Juniors Volleyball Club and a championship in the Far Western National Qualifier with the Wave Volleyball Club.

As a sophomore, Harris was named to VYPE magazine’s Who’s Who in Volleyball among outside hitters. She was named to numerous all-tournament teams and honored as the Houston Chronicle’s Player of the Week during her senior season.

As a senior at Oak Ridge, Harris was named one of the top 125 players in the nation by PrepVolleyball.com.

“Victoria’s skill set and the incoming Class of 2016 should give us options to correct some deficiencies we had last season and gaps left by a departing senior class that meant so much to this program,” Kiracofe said. “I am excited to have Victoria here and to be able to train her this semester.”

Matthew Whitaker, left, and Tre Nelson.

Northwestern State University students Matthew Whitaker of Winnfield and Tre Nelson of Prairieville got a first hand look at the nation’s first presidential primary by attending the New Hampshire Primary Student Convention in Manchester, New Hampshire, last week.

Whitaker, the Student Government Association president, and Nelson, a member of the Student Senate, attended workshop sessions and talked with student leaders from around the country.

“We got a number of tips from other SGAs about things we could bring back to Northwestern,” said Whitaker. “We learned about how other student governments are set up, how they get funding and handle legislation. It was good to learn that other SGAs face many of the same problems that we have.”

The students heard from presidential candidates Chris Christie, Carly Fiorina, John Kasich, Martin O’Malley, Rand Paul and Bernie Sanders, other elected officials, political analysts, media covering the primary and interest group leaders.

“It was an awesome experience to have the opportunity to meet some of the presidential candidates and hear them speak in person,” said Nelson. “We got some great ideas from other colleges and universities and shared with them some of our successful programs.”

Northwestern State University is joining the city of Natchitoches and the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau in sponsoring the Louisiana Film Prize, a contest that requires filmmakers to shoot a short narrative film in northwest Louisiana to win a prize of $50,000. The LA Film Prize was established five years ago to draw filmmakers to Shreveport-Bossier, foster the creative vibe in the region, showcase the beauty and resources of northwest Louisiana and spur economic development through the film industry.  This year, filming boundaries have been extended to include Natchitoches Parish.

“I believe our Parish will be greatly impacted by now being included in the approved film zones,” said Madeline DeBlieux, marketing and public relations manager at the Natchitoches CVB.   “Knowing the impact it has brought to the Shreveport area and northwest Louisiana, I can only imagine what it can do for Natchitoches and the parish. The landscapes and architecture the city and NSU have, the wildlife areas, Landmark Districts; NSU and the Historic District and not to mention the Cane River National Heritage Area. This will bring endless opportunities for Natchitoches and I can’t wait to see filmmakers and their crews here in Natchitoches Parish.”

Twenty finalists will be selected, who will receive $500 and an invitation to the LA Film Prize Weekend Sept. 30-Oct. 2 where the winner will be determined.  Half of the selection will be through a panel of celebrities and film experts and half by audience vote.  Last year, 86 teams participated.

The 2016 contest began with a kick-off party at ArtSpace in Shreveport Jan. 12 that celebrated the contest’s fifth birthday.  Rough cuts of films are due July 12 and announcement of the 20 finalists will be Aug. 16.

“We hope that as the LA Film Festival grows, Northwestern State will be a resource to filmmakers shooting in our parish,” said Cole Gentry, NSU’s director of Marketing and Branding.  “The university’s involvement in the film contest creates opportunities for our students in creative and performing arts, communication arts and hospitality management and tourism engaging with filmmakers and as aspiring filmmakers themselves.”

Photo: Kathleen Sylvester

Celebration of Life services for Jack Oliver Brittain, Sr., 87, (“Love one another” was his guide in life) will be held at 11AM on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church of Natchitoches in the Crossroads Sanctuary at 411 Second Street. Officiating the Celebration will be Pastor Doug de Graffenried. Visitation with the family will be held from 9AM to 11AM in the same Crossroads Sanctuary. The burial will take place at a later date since he donated his body for medical science.

Mr. Brittain was born on September 24, 1928 in Greenwood, LA and left this life peacefully on January 11, 2016 in Natchitoches, LA. He was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Ann Williams Brittain, and his parents Clarence L. Brittain and Irene Humphries Brittain.

He is survived by his 7 children: Jack Oliver “Britt” Brittain, Jr., J.D.; Marguerite Ann “Cissy” Brittain Picou, M.D. and husband, Bryan, M.D.; Rebecca Ann “Becky” Brittain Morris, C.P.A. and husband Wallace; Lala Elizabeth Ann Brittain Sylvester, Judge, J.D. and husband Russell, J.D.; Eliza Ann Brittain Behrendsen and husband, Gunnar; John Arthur Brittain, J.D.; and Mary Jane Ann “Cookie“ Brittain Richardson and husband, Kirk.

Also, 16 grandchildren: Marguerite Ann “Megan” Picou Bishop and husband, Ashley; Sara Elizabeth Picou McCann and husband, Gabe; Catherine Grace “Catie” Picou Oryl , J.D., and husband, Ben; and Bryan Anthony “T’ Bryan” Picou, Jr., M.D. and wife, Kassi; Winnfield Hancock “Winn” Morris; Wade Hampton Morris and wife, Kat; Lala Brittain “Brittany” Sylvester; Courtney Elisabeth Ann Sylvester, J.D.; Ashley Kathleen Sylvester, J.D.; Kathleen Marie Sylvester; Behrend Brittain Behrendsen; Ashton Lafitte Behrendsen; Sydney Elisabeth Brittain; Ann Marie “Annie” Brittain; Stanley John “Stan” Richardson, II; and Richard Blanchard Richardson.

Also, 8 great grandchildren: Ella, Liam, and Andrew McCann; Mack and Mollie Oryl; Amelia, Oliver, and Eleanor Picou;

Mr. Brittain graduated from Ouachita Parish High School 1945, La. Tech B.A. 1949, and LSU Law Center, J.D. 1957. He practiced law for 54 years; was a star running back and defensive back at La. Tech, having lettered all four years he played when they wore leather helmets with no face masks; and scored his first college touchdown at 16.

Further, he was qualified to practice law in many courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court and Louisiana Supreme Court. He was often recognized and highly regarded in his legal profession both locally and nationally.

Additionally, Mr. Brittain was in the businesses of timber, pecans, cotton, cattle, corn, and soybeans. He was also in the rental business and owned Beau Fort Plantation Home established in 1790, which was on the National Register for historical places. He continued to preserve historic structures in the Natchitoches National Historic Downtown District and Cane River area. He was a promoter of the arts, especially the works of Clementine Hunter who lived on his farm.

He served his country on active duty in the Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953 and also served for two years in the Louisiana National Guard. He entered the military as a private and was honorably discharged as a major.

Some of his civic accomplishments were President and “Man of the Year” of the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce, President of the Rotary Club, President and “Young Man of the Year” of the Natchitoches Jaycees, served as Jaycee National Director for Louisiana, President of the Plantation Club, and King – Rex XLVII – for the Cotillion -Holiday in Dixie. He was also active in politics, having been a delegate to the 1968 and 1972 Democratic National Conventions. He actively supported candidates he thought would be good public servants.

He was very active for over 50 years in the First United Methodist Church and served in many capacities as a trustee, Kids Hope Mentor, Methodist Youth Groups, etc. He loved his church and was faithful and true to it.

Mr. Brittain was a great father, a kind and hard working man, and most importantly he was a good person that loved God and everyone.

Donations in memory of Mr. Brittain may be made to the following charities in Natchitoches: First United Methodist Church of Natchitoches, St. Mary’s Foundation, Ann and Jack Brittain Family Scholarship Fund at NSU, or a charity of your choice.

He never forgot his humble beginnings and helped so many who were less fortunate.

The impact of Northwestern State’s longest-serving president, the late Dr. Randy Webb, and his wife Brenda, was monumental on the university and its athletic program during his tenure from 1996-2014.

For current and future NSU student-athletes, it will continue to be felt with the creation of the Webb Family Athletic Scholarship endowment as part of the Perpetually Purple program through the Demons Unlimited Foundation, the 501-c-3 private foundation which supports NSU Athletics.

The announcement of the scholarship endowment was made by Brenda Webb and NSU director of athletics Greg Burke, who noted Dr. Webb broached the subject of establishing the scholarship during a conversation last summer just a few months into his retirement. He passed away a week before Thanksgiving at the age of 72.

Mrs. Webb recalled the initial discussion involving her husband and Burke and said the concept immediately started moving forward.

“After retirement, Randy and I wanted to do something more for Athletics. We had always given, but the Perpetually Purple campaign seemed an ideal way to continue to support the student-athletes,” she said. “The program’s name says it all — a way to support forever. Our love for NSU athletics has always been there. This offered a way to provide support in years to come.

“When Greg shared with Randy about the campaign, we knew it was for us. Our academic scholarships have been a great way to help students. Now this gift can provide help for the student-athletes,” she said. “Randy and I had planned to present Greg the check in October. Unfortunately Randy’s illness kept us from meeting with Greg. It was important for me to follow up on Randy’s wishes and in early December the gift was given.

“Our family has been touched by the gifts to the academic scholarship in Randy’s memory. The Webb Family Scholarship for Athletics is now another opportunity for us and others to offer financial support to our outstanding students and coaches,” said Mrs. Webb.

To contribute to the Webb Family Endowed Athletic Scholarship at NSU, contact assistant athletic director Haley Blount (blounth@nsula.edu, 318-357-4278)or mail a contribution to NSU Athletics, c/o Haley Blount, Athletic Fieldhouse, Natchitoches, LA 71497.

“The fact that Dr. Webb and Brenda were among the most ardent supporters of student-athletes and coaches during his tenure as NSU president makes establishing this scholarship most fitting,” said Burke. “They genuinely cared about the on- and off-field welfare and success of the NSU athletic program and demonstrated that passion by attending many athletic events, home and away, as well as financially supporting the Demons Unlimited Foundation on an annual basis.

“Through this generous commitment to establish an endowed scholarship, the impact they have had on NSU Athletics through the years is now in place on a continuing basis,” said Burke.

Mrs. Webb said their admiration for Burke and his athletic staff, along with Vice President for External Affairs Jerry Pierce, were additional motivating factors.

“Greg Burke and his leadership is another great reason we wanted to offer our gift,” she said. “Greg and all his leadership team and staff do an outstanding job. Our family expresses appreciation to Greg, Haley and all the staff and coaches for their respect and support during our tenure, and most recently through our loss. Special thanks goes to Vice President Pierce. As a cabinet member, Jerry saw first-hand Randy’s passion for NSU Athletics.”

Blount, who set the NSU record in the pole vault as a student-athlete, said competitors always appreciated the sincere interest and involvement in NSU Athletics by the Webbs. Last November, in her role as assistant athletics director, she received a compelling phone call from Mrs. Webb.

“As a former student-athlete and now a staff member at NSU, the personal touch from Dr. Webb and Mrs. Brenda always meant so much to me. When Mrs. Brenda called me just two days after Dr. Webb passed, I assumed the purpose of the phone call would have something to do with helping with the funeral arrangements. But, she was calling to make sure that we knew that they hadn’t forgotten about the Perpetually Purple Program and she would get us a check and finalize their contribution as soon as possible,” said Blount. “Her kindness and thoughtfulness moved me to tears. Even in the midst of such tragedy, Mrs. Brenda and her family were always thinking of ways that they could help others. This gift is a fitting tribute to the legacy that Dr. Webb and his family have left in the NSU Athletic department, and I’m happy that his name will live on in the lives of NSU student-athletes for years to come.”

Mrs. Webb said she and her husband were very gratified by their interaction with student-athletes at Northwestern State even before he became president. Dr. Webb was on the DUF board of directors prior to his selection as president and was a season ticket holder for all sports while he served as Dean of Instruction and Graduate Studies.

“We admire the student-athletes who represent NSU, and were extremely privileged to work with them and support them. We know how truly committed to their sports they are, and how much pride they take in representing our university,” she said. “We also appreciate the work our coaches do, especially in recruiting young men and women to attend Northwestern.

“Randy and I felt each student-athlete offers so much to the student experience on campus. Good, healthy athletic competition is part of the college experience, whether it’s as a participant, as a band member or a spirit group member, or as somebody in the stands watching and cheering,” said Mrs. Webb. “You appreciate young people doing their best representing the university whether it’s in the classroom or in competition, and we have always been proud of how NSU has done in both areas.”

The Webb family has a direct understanding of the commitment required of the nearly 400 NCAA Division I student-athletes at NSU. Both of their sons-in-law, Reggie Gatewood (married to Tamara, their oldest daughter) and Nick Simokatis (whose wife is the former Lauren Webb), were standout baseball players in the 1990s for the Demons.

“We have seen that ability to compete carry on to the business world for both of them. What they learned as student-athletes, how to be part of successful teams, how to manage their time, how to work effectively with a variety of people in many different situations, has helped them in the business world,” said Mrs. Webb. “Reggie and Nick learned how to interact, to put your best foot forward, and they have both shown that in their careers. It’s been a wonderful influence on our family.”

A proud native of Haynesville, Webb arrived at NSU in the fall of 1961 as a walk-on center on coach Jack Clayton’s football team. Four years later, he graduated with degrees in mathematics and business education. He earned his master’s in mathematics from Northwestern State in 1966, and earned a doctorate in education with a concentration in mathematics and research from Southern Mississippi in 1971.

As president, Webb was an avid supporter of Demon athletics, and devoted himself to ensuring the university’s athletic programs remained competitively successful. In his 18 years as president, Webb enjoyed teams winning 19 regular-season Southland Conference championships, 17 Southland Tournament titles and making 21 NCAA Tournament appearances, while 35 NSU track and field competitors won Division I All-America honors by virtue of top 16 finishes at NCAA championships.

The president’s home at NSU is adjacent to Brown-Stroud Field, home of Demon baseball. He rooted hard for the St. Louis Cardinals and was slated to throw out a first pitch at a Cardinals game last season before his illness was diagnosed.

Webb served the Southland Conference as chair of its Board of Directors, and remained an enthusiastic advocate of the league throughout his presidential term, helping create stability among the membership.

When it came to national issues in intercollegiate athletics, Webb was an active participant while representing the Southland on the NCAA Division I Board of Directors and the NCAA Executive Committee from 2001-05. He also served on the NCAA Division I Presidential Advisory Group from 2005-13.

A few months after his retirement, Webb was inducted into the Southland Conference Hall of Honor’s Class of 2015 last May.

During its fast start to Southland Conference play, the Northwestern State women’s basketball team has relied on its defense.

It did again Wednesday night against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, turning in something that it has not accomplished in more than year.

For the first time since the 2014-15 season opener, NSU kept every opposing player out of double figures while watching three of its own players top the double-figure mark in a 60-43 victory at Prather Coliseum.

“The biggest thing was just being energetic,” fourth-year co-head coach Brooke Stoehr said. “They have a couple of really good shooters in (Shay) Weaver and (Brittany) Mbamalu. We had to be in the area on the catch with a hand up. I thought our perimeter moved well and our forwards moved well within the zone. When they do shoot 20-plus 3s, you know a lot of those rebounds are going to be long rebounds. That’s where your guards get involved, not just standing around watching, but getting themselves involved tracking down loose balls and long rebounds.”

Northwestern State (10-6, 4-1) won its second straight game and extended its home winning streak to nine straight games, doing so by following what has become a familiar pattern since the calendar flipped to 2016.

NSU won the battle on the boards, edging the Islanders (3-12, 0-4), 32-30, marking the fourth time in five conference games NSU has grabbed more rebounds than its opponent.

All four of those games have resulted in Northwestern State victories.

“It’s something we’ve really emphasized with our team,” Stoehr said. “We’ve got size. We need to block out, put a body on somebody and go pursue the ball. Rebounding is all about energy and effort. It’s a little bit of technique, but so much is about going and pursuing the basketball. Our team has done that really well since we got to conference play.”

Northwestern State bounced back from a 1-for-14 3-point effort in Saturday’s win at Incarnate Word with a blistering first-half shooting performance.

NSU connected on 5 of 8 first-half 3-pointers, building a 30-14 lead at the break, and continued its hot long-range shooting in the second half. NSU finished 9-for-17 from behind the arc with seniors Janelle Perez and Keisha Lee and junior Beatrice Attura knocking down a combined 9 of 15 long-range shots.

All three reached double figures with Perez tallying a game-high 20 points. Lee and Attura each finished with 13 points.

“I’m just going on confidence,” Perez said. “When our team plays well, it allows me to spot up and get open. I try to practice before practice, after practice. You’ve got to keep shooting. That’s what good shooters do – keep shooting and play with confidence. The in and out is helping us, too. We’re drawing attention in the post now. It opens up the guard play a lot.”

Lee, playing in her sixth game since returning from a preseason knee injury, delivered a season-high 13 points and five of NSU’s eight steals.

Along with Attura and Perez, Lee helped limit Mbamalu and Weaver to a combined 15 points on 5-of-15 shooting.

Lee and Perez combined for 10 rebounds as well.

“Coach tells us we have to be more aggressive (on defense) in a zone than in man,” Lee said. “We’ve got to give 100 percent effort the whole game to turn them over and get more possessions to score more points.”

Mbamalu led the Islanders with nine points as Texas A&M-Corpus Christi suffered its 10^th straight loss. Tia Youngblood had eight points and a career-best five assists for NSU, which posted 17 assists against just nine turnovers.

Northwestern State returns to action Saturday at Lamar, starting a three-game Southland Conference road trip with a 2 p.m. tipoff in Beaumont, Texas. The game will air on the Demon Sports Network with streaming video available on ESPN3.

Northwestern State University’s Department of Engineering Technology will host their first Robotics Competition (NSU-RC1) on Feb. 17. All middle schools within a 100-mile radius of Natchitoches are invited to participate.  There is no registration fee for the competition, but participants must register by Monday, Feb. 8 by submitting a letter of intent.

Participants will be able to test their computer programming skills and compete with other Louisiana students for prizes during a fun environment with educational experiences, food and social activities.  The top three teams will receive cash prizes to be used to purchase technology for the classroom.

For a complete list of rules and regulations, contact Dr. Jafar F. Al Sharab at jafar@nsula.edu or call (318) 357-4359.  Documents can also be viewed and downloaded at http://engrtech.nsula.edu/industry-and-community-relations/.

Natalie Covher

Natalie is a lifestyle writer that knows where to go, what to do and how to have fun in Natchitoches Parish. Originally from Washington State, she has lived in Louisiana for 15 years.  She feels that being a non-native gives her a unique perspective and appreciation for the beauty, culture and history of the State. Both Natalie and her Husband, Corbin Covher, are alumni of Northwestern State University where they met and fell in love. After living in New Orleans for three years, the couple decided to return to Natchitoches and call it home. Natalie sits on the board of the Natchitoches Historic Foundation and is a member of the Natchitoches Young Professionals.

While the couple is putting down roots in the community and starting a family, Natalie continues to reach for her goal of growth, promotion and preservation of the Parish.  Follow Natalie at the Natchitoches Parish Journal to find your niche in Natchitoches Parish.

For information on coverage for upcoming events contact us at NPJNatLa@gmail.com

Latasha Thomas, a senior nursing student at Northwestern State University, has received a 2015-16 Nursing Education Scholarship from the Louisiana Council of Administrators of Nursing Education.

“Nursing has become a way of life for me,” said Thomas. “When I began the nursing program in 2005, I never thought I would see the day of not only having earned the title of registered nurse, but actually being very close to having a bachelor’s degree in nursing.”

Thomas is scheduled to graduate in May, capping an 11-year effort to earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She started at Northwestern State in 2005, earned an associate in nursing in 2010. She has been working toward her bachelor’s for the past four years.

Thomas directs the New Life Crisis Pregnancy Center in Leesville which administers pregnancy tests and provides peer counseling for women. The Center provides prenatal, childbirth and parenting education, as well as assistance for clients to include diapers, baby wipes, formula, baby food, clothing, household goods and personal items.  All services are free and confidential.

Thomas found out about the Center nine years ago and began volunteering.

“When I first began nursing school, I applied for scholarships in numerous places. I was always asked how I planned to use my nursing skills after graduation,” she said. “I would explain my desire to open a crisis pregnancy center in my community and encourage women to have healthy pregnancies and raise healthy, happy children.  During my time in school, I discovered there was already such a place in our community that was just getting started.  I eagerly began volunteering, and the center became a vital part of my family’s life.”

New Life has seen significant growth in recent years and now assists approximately 100 families a month. The organization recently moved to a larger location to meet the needs of the community. Thomas thinks her education will help her better run the Center.

“I want to see our center become a medical facility that offers a variety of services including testing and education free of charge,” said Thomas. “To be able to credibly direct such an organization, I must increase my knowledge base both in and out of the classroom.  While it is possible to run an organization such as the one we desire without additional credentials, I feel it would be in the best interest of our center for me to strive to higher heights in the field of nursing to ensure I am well-prepared to serve my community.”

Arrangements are now final for our Dad, Jack O. Brittain, Sr.’s, Celebration of Life Services: They will be Saturday, January 16th with Visitation from 9AM to 11AM; The Celebration Service will then begin at 11AM. All at First United Methodist Church Crossroads Sanctuary of Natchitoches. Burial will take place at a later date since he donated his body for medical research. Dad passed away peacefully on January 11, 2016.  “Love one another” was his guide in life. – Jack Britten, Jr.

Assistant Manager Christy Rachal, Beth Cole with the Cane River Food Pantry, and Store Director Allen Hudson presenting the Cane River Food Pantry with a $420 gift card.

Local Business presented the Cane River Food Pantry with a $420 gift card and a buggy of food as part of their Spirit of Christmas donation drive. Their costumers donated money and food during the Christmas season to help support the local food pantry.

Cane River Food Pantry is an ecumenical effort supported by several local churches. The food pantry is located at 105 Daniel St. off of the Hwy 1 Bypass.

The food pantry would not be possible without the support of the Natchitoches community through food drives and financial support. If you want to help out your neighbors or in need of help yourself you can call 318-356-0646 or email CaneRiverFoodPantry@gmail.com.

The 58^th Annual Miss Northwestern – Lady of the Bracelet Pageant will be held Friday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. in the A.A. Fredericks Auditorium.  Admission is free and open to the public.

Twelve Northwestern State students are scheduled to compete in the event, which is a preliminary for the Miss Louisiana Pageant. The NSU Student Activities Board sponsors the pageant. The winner will receive more than $7,000 in scholarships and prizes. Total scholarships and prizes awarded to contestants will be more than $12,000.

This year’s contestants are Lincoln Pearce of Many, Ragan Aple of Shreveport, Rebekah Aultman of Mangham, Faith Stanfield of Natchitoches, Marissa McMickens of Pineville, Elizabeth Guerrero of Ferriday, Hannah Teutsch of Haughton, Distiny Thompson of Mansura, Kayla Richards of Leesville, Jade Knight of DeQuincy, Skilynn Fontenot of Eunice, and Chelsey Goldsmith of Edmond, Oklahoma.

Pearce is a junior accounting major. A President’s List student, she is a member of Phi Mu Fraternity, Phi Kappa Phi and Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.

Aple is a freshman psychology and addiction studies major. She is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and the Presidential Leadership Program.

Aultman is a sophomore nursing major. She is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Aultman is active in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry and the Presidential Leadership Program. She is a President’s List student.

Stanfield is a junior early childhood education major. She is a member of Phi Mu Fraternity and the NSU Purple Pizazz Pompon Line where she was captain. Stanfield is a Freshman Connection orientation leader, a Presidential Leadership Program mentor and NSU Ambassador. She is a Dean’s List student.

McMickens is a junior theatre major. She is active in Northwestern Theatre and Dance and is a member of the NSU Dance Company, Broadway to Go and Make Your Own Theatre. McMickens is a member of Phi Mu Fraternity.

Guerrero is a senior health and exercise science major. She is a member of the Demon Dazzler danceline and is active in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry. Guerrero is a Dean’s List student.

Teutsch is a sophomore social work major. She is active in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry and is a member of Demon Volunteers in Progress and First Year Experience. Teutsch is a recipient of a women’s choral scholarship.

Thompson is a junior elementary education major. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Thompson is a Dean’s List student.

Richards is a freshman nursing major. She is a Presidential Ambassador and a member of the Presidential Leadership Program, the Catholic Student Organization and Phi Mu Fraternity.

Knight is a sophomore vocal music education major. She is a member of the NSU choir and TMEA. Knight is a tutor in the Academic Success Center.

Fontenot is a sophomore performing arts major. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and Make Your Own Theatre. Fontenot is a Dean’s List student and a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.

Goldsmith is a sophomore theatre major. She is a former Freshman Connection orientation leader and a member of the Demon Dazzlers. Goldsmith is active in Northwestern Theatre and Dance serving as president of Make Your Own Theatre.

City of Natchitoches Council 01-11-16

Mayor Lee Posey made a statement at the pre-council meeting before residents spoke out against Ordinance #065 authorizing an option to purchase property at 1128 Williams Avenue for a period of nine months. The City Council wants the property because the City is working with the State to locate and acquire a site for a temporary bridge across Cane River Lake. The property has been appraised at the value of $204,000; and the property owner has agreed to accept $9,000 cash as compensation for the Option to Purchase the property, which said amount will be credited to the purchase price if the City exercises the option.

“The Department of Transportation and Development looked at this site for a temporary or permanent bridge years ago in the 1960’s,” said Posey. “This site is for sale right now. We feel it will save somebody money if we go through and buy this house. There will still be public environmental impact hearings. The State told us it would be a one-two year process and we have been in it for six months. When the public hearings occur there will be three options; one will be that a temporary bridge will be built while they take down and put back up the Church Street Bridge, the second will be a permanent bridge will be built while they take down and put back up the Church Street Bridge and the third will be maintaing one lane of the Church Street Bridge with exception of a week here or there.”

Councilman David Stamey then spoke stating “This could effect my district, district one, significantly, which is why I like option three.”

Brady Williams then addressed the council about his concerns with the placement of a temporary or permanent bridge at the proposed property. He is lawyer and lives at 1054 Williams Avenue. “Your going to get people killed,” said Williams. “You will make me money but you are going to get people killed. Your wanting to put a T-bone intersection on a blind curve. That will cause accidents. People already fly down that road.” I am very concerned as a parent of three small children. I believe it to be a real danger. People will walk across that bridge temporary or not and there are not any sidewalks. This is a serous public safety issue. I am also curious about the appraised value of $204,000 for that house. It is not in good condition. I want to know if this figure is based of fair market value.”

Posey responded by stating there would be time to talk about these concerns at the public environmental impact meeting.

John Luster addressed the council about his concerns with the placement of the bridge in residential area. He a lawyer and lives across from the Church Street Bridge on Williams Avenue.

“This is the third time I have seen an effort to put a bridge in a residential neighborhood in Natchitoches,” said Luster. The first time it was proposed that one be built from Texas Street. The second time it was proposed that one be built from Mil Street to South Williams. Both projects didn’t happen because the bridge would be going through a residential neighborhood. My Son’s home is 1124 Williams adjacent to this property and my office is next to it. I think this is the wrong place to put a bridge. It will destroy are sense of community. The first scene in Steel Magnolias is Daryl Hannah walking down a long road with live oaks. If this bridge is placed on this lot that will be destroyed. I thin k it is the wrong answer culturally for our community. I hope you can see what this is going to do to the people living over there.”

Ralph Ingram addressed the council about his opinion on where the bridge should be placed. He lives at 905 Williams Avenue.

“I think we need to think about the future. I know you do. We all know that traffic goes to Keyser Avenue. Put the money for the new bridge in the right place at the end of Williams Avenue. Put a bridge around town not through town.”

Posey responded by saying this is a priority and they are in a eight year process of pushing Hwy 6/ Grand Ecore to Williams Avenue to Blanchard Road to Keyser Avenue. “Everyone thinks that if there is a temporary bridge then there will be a permanent bridge,” said Posey. “That is not the case you have to state whether it is temporary or permanent in the beginning of the process.”

PROCLAMATIONS:

#001 Approved: Proclamation Declaring Martin Luther King, Jr., Day

#002 Approved: Proclamation Declaring the Month of January, 2016 as Arbor Day

ORDINANCES – FINAL:

#062 Approved: Ordinance Authorizing Mayor Lee Posey To Execute An Agreement With The Louisiana Office Of Community Development For The FY 2014-2015 Community Water Enrichment Fund (CWEF) For Improvements To The Natchitoches Water System To Replace Water Lines And Service Taps Along Pierson, Payne, Julia, Lafayette And Rusbo Streets.

#063 Approved: Ordinance Authorizing The Mayor Of The City Of Natchitoches To Award The Bid For Water Tower Submersible Mixers Pax 400 And Pax 100 (Bid No. 0575).

#065 Tabled: (David Stamey and Sylvia Morrow voted no creating a two-two tied vote. Morrow then motioned for the vote to be tabled and Stamey Seconded.) Ordinance Authorizing The Mayor Of The City Of Natchitoches, Lee Posey, To Execute An Option To Purchase On Behalf Of The City Of Natchitoches Which Will Give The City The Option To Purchase Property At 1128 Williams Avenue From Wayne Arlo Sibley, Et Al, For A Period Of Nine Months For The Consideration Of Two Hundred Four Thousand Dollars, To Provide For Advertising, And A Savings Clause.

Sarah Luster addressed the council about her request to table the vote.

“Many concerns have been spoken about but I haven’t heard one about the money,” said Luster. “One cost that hasn’t been mentioned is the cost to demolish the building that stands on the other side of Cane River Lake from this property. Also the temporary bridge on Keyser became a permanent one so there has been a past with temporary bridges becoming permanent. I wish there would have been more notice. I request to table to the vote.”

David Stamey responded by stating “ I have received four other calls since last Thursday. A lot of people didn’t know about this. It is a shame that the community doesn’t keep up with City Council but I did receive feedback, all negative. It is not a secret that this will be bad for District 1. This is a tough decision because we king of jumped around in the process to save money. That is why it seems out of order. Feedback has been negative because this has been out of order. Usually there would have been a couple of open meetings and there still will be. Just because we have taken the option out on a piece of property doesn’t mean this bridge will happen.”

Director of Community Development Randy Lacaze interjected “It would kill this town if the Church Street bridge came down. This plan came from trying to avoid that.”

Posey responded by stating “The Church Street Bridge is inspected every six months to make sure it is safe. The DOTD was shocked at how much traffic goes across that bridge everyday. We don’t want the Church Street Bridge to come down and bottle neck this town.”

Mims asked “Have we asked if they would put the money down at the end of Cane River?”

Posey responded by stating “I think everyone wants the bridge to come down though the dam and we are moving towards that goal.”

Eddie Harrington addressed the council about his concern with the number of phone calls he received about he bridge.

“As district one councilman elect I have received a number of phone calls from my district. To reiterate what Stamey said they have all been negative. If the vote is approved will it grant you to spend the money to purchase the property?”

Posey responded by stating “This only allows us the option. We try to spend anyones money but our own.”

Harrington responded by stating “What I am weary of is that the money will be spent without public consent.”

Mims said “I don’t think it will be spent until we have meetings.”

Bill Maley addressed the council about his concern for his property. He lives at 1212 Williams Ave.

“My wife Dee and I got a phone call this morning on this,” said Maley. “ Thse options have a bad habit of becoming reality. What I would like to see for grins is y’all siting in my front yard at 3 p.m. On a school day and watch the traffic. Like nay other taxpayerI don’t want this in my back yard. I don’t want it in my damn yard. I just don’t like getting a phone call from a circle of lawyers. That isn’t public input.”

City Attorney Ronald Corkern responded by stating “If they don’t take the option that house remains on the market. So if someone buys that house and makes improvements instead of being a price the city can afford we wouldn’t be able to buy it. The only thing this vote does is give them the option to.”

Maley asked the council “If I bought that house and made improvements I could stop this project.”

ORDINANCES – INTRODUCTION:

#001 Introduced: Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 046 Of 2015 Authorizing Mayor, Lee Posey, To Enter Into An Intergovernmental Agreement With The Parish Of Natchitoches, The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Department, And The Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office In Connection With The Funding Of A Response Vehicle For The Use Of The Coroner.

MOTION TO ADD ORDINANCE NO. 002 of 2016

#002 Introduced: Ordinance approving the purchase of several tracts of ground adjacent to the Union Pacific Railroad tight of way said tract situated in that area bounded on the West by Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, on the North by Lafayette Street, on the East by Sixth Street and on the South by Trudeau Street from NorthWest Louisiana Athletic League, For the consideration two hundred Forty Thousand Dollars, and authorizing the mayor of the City of Natchitoches, Lee Posey, To execute A cash Sale Deed for the purchase of the tracts and all related documents, to provide for advertising and a savings clause.

MOTION TO ADD ORDINANCE NO. 003 of 2016

#003 Introduced: Ordinance approving the form and content of a cooperative endeavor agreement wit the Jackson Square Cemetery, Inc., a non-profit corporation to provide for the transfer of an area of the South end of the Jackson Square Cemetery Property that is currently used as a part of the cometary to the Jackson Square Cemetery, Inc., and to provide for the future use and maintenance of the area transferred and further authorizing for the mayor to execute.

1. REPORTS: Pat Jones – Financial Report

2. ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The City of Natchitoches offices will be closed Monday, January 18, 2016 in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.

The next scheduled City Council meeting will be January 25, 2016.

Rick Nowlin, Mary Ann Nowlin and Louie Bernard

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.

New Parish Council

Dr. Sue Weaver

Rick Nowlin