Northwestern State University alumnus Matthew Whitaker of Winnfield, a Spring 2016 graduate, was named a finalist for the Robertson Most Outstanding Undergraduate Award during Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity’s bi-annual convention in New Orleans last week. This prestigious title is given to the top undergraduate in all of Pi Kappa Alpha for outstanding academic achievement, campus involvement, community and fraternal service. Whitaker is currently a graduate student at Northwestern State University and will obtain his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. As an undergraduate, Whitaker was Student Government Association president, a Freshman Connector, Mr. NSU and Homecoming King 2015. In addition to Pi Kappa Alpha, he was a member of Psi Chi Honor Society and Blue Key.

“After 75 years, don’t you think it’s time for me to go to my house?”
This was the response of Daisy Jackson, better known as Ms. Daisy, when asked why she was retiring from the food service industry after 50 years.

“It’s time for me to go home,” she added.
Her career began in 1966 in the newly-opened cafeteria located on the campus of Northwestern State University.

“It was a brand new building,” she said. “That was when I was making $1.45 an hour. I still have some of those check stubs. They were feeding thousands of children over there.”
Daisy started working on the dishwashing line. From there, she went to the line and then the salad line.

In 2006, she made the decision to leave NSU and begin her 10-year career at the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts.

At LSMSA, her favorite part of the job was meeting the faculty, staff and students.
“The kids love me,” Daisy said. “Children who graduated still call me and still send me cards all of the time. It’s been a pleasure working here.”

A memorable time for Daisy was when the lights at LSMSA went out one year and it was dark in the cafeteria.

“Me and Ms. Margaret took my lighter and cooked for the kids,” she said. “The children really gave us praise for that. They made posters and all of them signed it. That made us feel good to know.”

Her plans after retirement include traveling and fishing.

“Trust me, I am going to find something to do,” she said. “When it gets a little cooler, I am going to do a little fishing. Then I am going to do a little cooking. The rest of the story, I am going to sit down, rest, watch television and nod the rest of the day.”

Her final words of wisdom before leaving the LSMSA cafeteria for the last time:
“There ain’t but one Daisy, and there ain’t no more like her.”

The Northwestern State University Alumni Association is accepting nominations for its Hall of Distinction, the Long Purple Line along with three new alumni awards.

The Long Purple Line was created in 1990 to provide recognition and appreciation to former Northwestern State students whose career accomplishments or service to their fellow man have enhanced the reputation of the university. Selection to the Long Purple Line is the most prominent honor bestowed by NSU upon its alumni.

The 2016 inductees into the Long Purple Line were Greg Ashlock, Foster Campbell, Dr. James L. Holly, Glenn Talbert and Dr. Randall J. Webb. Since 1990, 115 Northwestern State alumni have been made part of the Long Purple Line.

Nominations can be made at northwesternalumni.com/lplnomination and will be accepted until Nov. 1. A 12-person committee, which will include alumni, will select the 2017 inductees who will be honored as part of the Spring Commencement Exercises on May 12, 2017.

The Outstanding Young Alumni Distinguished Service Award and Outstanding Alumnus/Alumna Distinguished Service Award will be given to an NSU alumnus/alumna who has exhibited their dedication and loyalty to Northwestern’s programs and mission.

The candidate must demonstrate an early record of distinguished service to Northwestern and continued interest in serving the university in his/her life as a volunteer, donor and /or advocate.

The recipient of the Outstanding Young Alumni Distinguished Service Award must be an alumnus/alumna of NSU and have attained alumni status within the past 10 years and be 40 or younger at the time of the nomination.

The recipient of the Outstanding Alumnus/Alumna Distinguished Service Award must be an alumnus/alumna of NSU and must have attained alumni status more than 10 years ago and be 40 or older at the time of the nomination.

Nominations may be made by any alumnus or alumna, by any alumni chapter or by any member of the faculty or staff of University.

The NSU Alumni Association Volunteer of the Year Award will be presented to a person who has exhibited his or her dedication and loyalty to Northwestern’s programs and mission.

The candidate must be a member of the NSU Alumni Association and have continued interest in serving the university in his/her life as a volunteer, donor and /or advocate, an exemplary record of volunteer time, talents and service to the NSU Alumni Association and active involvement with a chapter, alumni interest group, affiliate program, NSU Alumni Board or other forms of volunteer service to Northwestern State University.

Nominations may be made by any alumnus or alumna, by any alumni chapter, or by any member of the faculty or staff of University.

Nominations can be submitted at Northwesternalumni.com/outstandingservice,

Northwesternalumni.com/youngoutstandingservice and Northwesternalumni.com/volunteeraward. The deadline to submit nominations for the three alumni awards is Oct. 1. The awards will be presented as part of Homecoming activities on Oct. 21-22.

This afternoon, Aug. 10 at 4:29 p.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Louisiana State Police, Campti Police, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS responded to a three-vehicle non-life threatening injury crash on La. Hwy 6 East near Payne Sub-Division in Natchitoches.

Three vehicles involved in the crash were a 2006 Chevrolet pickup truck, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, and a 2015 Peterbilt eighteen wheeler.

Two adults and a juvenile in the Chevrolet Impala were transported from the scene to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

State Police cited the operator of the Chevrolet pickup truck for Careless Operation of a Vehicle, and Illegal Window Tint, while the operator of the Chevrolet Impala was cited for Driving under Suspension.

The crash is being investigated by Troopers assigned to LSP Troop-E Alexandria.

Traffic was backed up over a mile while the crash was being investigated.

Photographs property of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

An activation ceremony for Northwestern State University’s 67th Demon Battalion will take place at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25 at the Spirit of the Cadet Park adjacent to the Gov. James A. Noe Armory.

Steeped in Army tradition, uncasing the Demon Battalion Colors during an activation ceremony signifies the unit’s esprit de corps and cadets’ commitment to the program and each other. It opens the new academic year and establishes the new Battalion and its leadership.

The public is invited. The Spirit of the Cadet Park is located at 418 Caspari St. To RSVP, contact Sid Hall at halls@nsula.edu or call (318) 357-6951.

Katie’s face is totally white now.

It’s an interesting contrast with the rest of her body, which is red. Katie, as some long-time readers may recall, is a spaniel mix. She’ll be 13 in the spring.
She’s not nearly as spry as she used to be, and sometimes has a little trouble getting up when she’s lying down But when she has to do her business, she still rushes out the back door and runs into the yard. Oh, and she doesn’t hear so well any more.
Katie is one of the sweetest dogs I’ve ever had, and I’ve had many over my fairly long life. I had to drive her to the vet the other day to get her nails clipped and she sat in the front seat with me, looking up at me with trust in her big brown eyes, although she seemed to know we weren’t going down to Cane River below Front Street, where she likes to pick up the dozens of amazing dog smells.

Mary and I hope Katie will be with us for a while. She’s the oldest dog we’ve had, in fact. We had a wonderful little rat terrier, my favorite dog of all time. But she had rare brain lesions and she died before her fifth birthday. Her name was Doodie Claire, as in “Well, I do declare.” Get it?

Before Doodie, we had lost Belle, a great pointer mix a few years ago. She had another rare condition, a spinal problem that first took the use of her back legs and then made her lose control of her bowels. She was only about six years old.

I remember when Belle was younger and we lived in the New Orleans area, Mary and I would sleep in on Saturday mornings. And that was when we invited Belle to jump in bed for a petting session. I’d say, “Belle, come,” and she’d easily leap into the bed and flop down on one of us, for a wonderful bonding session.

Katie is not the only canine resident of our house now, not by any means. We have Mosby, another little rat terrier. We figure he’s about nine and he has problems too. He has stenosis of his wind pipe and perhaps congestive heart failure. But with luck, the vet says he could still be around for a while.

When we got Mosby from the pound here he looked like a refugee from a doggie concentration camp. You could not only see his ribs, but his hip bones were plainly visible. He’s also suffered abuse and it took him a couple of years before he could relax around us. Now, every time I go into my carpeted study, he thinks it’s play time

And finally there’s Bea, a beagle-basset mix about six years old. I’d named her Bea for being short for beagle, but Mary has drawn out her name to Beatrice. Mary rescued her from the country north of Baton Rouge. This dog was also abused. Even now if you approach her rapidly she cowers down on the ground.

She still whines a lot, too, but she’s a fairly happy dog and loves to stay out in the yard for hours, chasing squirrels and trying to dig up pocket gophers. Every couple of hours she will scratch at the back door to come in and get water, then it’s back to the chase.

It’s amazing how dogs have unique personalities, just like people. But they’re all alike in their need for love, care and attention.

And isn’t it great to be able to meet those needs?

The Natchitoches Historic Foundation (NHF) met Tuesday, Aug. 9 at the Cunningham Law Office for its monthly meeting. Members are preparing for the upcoming Characters, Customs, and Crypts Tour.

The club started the year in June with its best foot forward by being awarded the 2016 Louisiana Culture Awards for Preservation Education from the Office of Lt. Governor, Billy Nungesser. The NHF received the award for its work to heighten the historical significance of the American Cemetery, one of Louisiana’s oldest burial sites. The club did this by developing and implementing the Characters, Customs, and Crypts Tour and Mourning Memorabilia Display and presenting it for the public, and then again for 8^th grade students last October.

NHF members and students from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts reenacted vignettes depicting the lives of historically significant people interred in the American Cemetery.  Mourning artifacts connected to present and past traditions of death and dying during the 19th and 20th centuries were also shared.  Last year over 500 people attended the tours. This year’s tours are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 1 for the public and Wednesday, Oct. 5 for school groups.

The NHF is also making repairs to the Mildred Bailey Park and looking at ways to improve and prepare the Cunningham Law Office for rental purposes.

The flooding of the Downtown Riverbank took a toll on the Roque House and the NHF has stayed in contact with FEMA for funding to repair and restore the historic building.

Registration postmark deadline is Wednesday, August 10 for the Miss Cure On the Cane Pageant. The pageant will be held Saturday, August 20 at 11 a.m. at Westside Baptist Church. Registration will be held from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and the competition will begin at 11 a.m. Late entries will be accepted until Saturday with a $10 late fee. All forms and money must be received by Saturday.

The queen will be the official Natchitoches Parish Relay for Life ambassadors for the 2016-2017 relay year. All proceeds from the pageant will be given to the American Cancer Society. This is a great beginner’s pageant and a “Crown All” event.

Divisions include 0-6 month Newborn Miss, 7-12 month Infant Miss, 13-24 months Baby Miss, 2 years Toddler Miss, 3 years- T’nincy Miss, 4 years Tiny Miss, 5 years Little Miss, 6-7 years Petite Miss, 8-9 years Jr. Deb Miss, 10-11 years Deb Miss, 12-13 years Teen Miss, 14-16 years Junior Miss and 17-23 years Miss.

Attire for 0 months – 9 years is Sunday Best (custom or off the rack.) 10-23 years is Evening Wear (floor-length formal.)
No fake hair or fake teeth, 0-3 years no makeup, 4 years and up age appropriate hair and makeup.

Each queen will receive a custom queen crown, queen banner, and goody bag (0-9 years) or bouquet (10-23 years). All other contestants will receive a participation trophy, alternate crown, goody bag (0-9 years) or bouquet (10-23 years). Each photogenic winner will receive a custom charger. Side Awards will be given in each division. Each side award winner will receive a medal for most beautiful, prettiest hair, best fashion, and prettiest smile.

For entry forms or more information visit their facebook page Miss Cure On the Cane Pageant

City Marshal Randy Williams wanted to inform the following people that they have outstanding bench warrants through the Natchitoches City Marshal’s Office. The names on this list did not pay their fines in full nor did they return to court on the court date they were sentenced to by City Court Judge Gahagan. These individuals will need to clear up their fines and bench warrant fees at the City Marshal’s Office located at 373 Second St. to stop any further actions:

FINE PAYMENT (F):
Damontra Jones, 910 West St, Natch, La- Remaining on Premises
Celine Metoyer, 1217 Amulet st, Natch, La- TBS
Leah Admire, 407 Robbins, Natch, La- No DL
Early Antwine Jr., 1023 Berry St, Natch, La- Discharging Firearm
Cody Bankhead, 731 Sisson Rd, Natch, La- Remaining on Premises
Katrice Brimsey, 500 North St Apt K4, Natch, La- TBS
Tiffany Brimsey, 132 Carter St, Natch, La- TBS
Thomasina Rachal, 119 Pecan court, Natch, La- No Seat Belt
Sedricka Brimsey, 500 North St Apt K4, Natch, La- DP
Ashante Calhoun, 267 Allen Beulah Rd, Natch, La- TBS
Nathan Calloway, 305 Scott Loop, Natch, La- SPOM
Brian Williams, 411 Prather St, Natch, La- No Drivers License
Quinteria Hardwell, 116 Larry Dr, Campti, La- TBS
Danielle Holden, 123 Pecan Court, Natch, La- Exp MVI
Shantricka Holden, 440 Fairgrounds Rd Lot 33, Natch, La- TBS
John Mitchell, 120 Michelle Dr, Natch, La- Unlicensed Driver
Christopher Davis, 1556 Cherry Loop, Natch, La- Disturbing the Peace
Calvin Newton, 728 4th St, Natch, La- Follow too close
Laqueitchie Sykes, 648 Jackson, Natch, La- DP, TBS
Kendrick Balthazar, 816 E. 4th St, Natch, La- Simple Battery

Trial (T):
Latavia Broomfield, 1500 Gold St, Natch, La- DP
Shawanna Maxie, 190 Hwy 119 Apt 11, Natchez, La- DP
Taylor Cavender, 938 Third St, Natch, La- SPOM
Schnesha Demery, 2222 Williams Ave, Natch, La- Unlicensed Driver, Speeding
Keasha Evans, 421-C Mcdodson Way, Natch, La- TBS
Dominique Moses, 500 N. St Apt J-1, Natch, La- TBS
Michael Helaire, 204 University Pkwy, Natch, La- Simple Battery, TBS, Remaining on Premises, NSB, Unlicensed Driver, No Insurance

Funeral services for Jimmy D. Long, Sr., widely recognized as one of the most prominent and respected political and state government figures in Louisiana history, are scheduled for Friday at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Natchitoches.

The Rev. Dr. Calvin Phelps, Sen. Gerald Long and the Rev. Tommy Rush will officiate, and there will be private family graveside services at American Cemetery in Natchitoches following the funeral. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Thursday at the church.

Long, who died Tuesday in a two-vehicle accident near his home on University Parkway in Natchitoches, was born Oct. 6, 1931, in the Tannehill community in Winn Parish. He is the brother of current Louisiana Senate President Pro Tem Gerald Long of Natchitoches.

A member of the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors since 2001, Long served eight consecutive terms in the House of Representatives from 1968 to 2000. Colleagues in the House and Senate adopted a resolution during his last term honoring Long as “Dean of the Legislature.”

He served as chairman of the House Education Committee for 16 years and also held membership on the powerful House Appropriations Committee and Joint Legislative Budget Committee. He was a long-time member of the 16-state Southern Regional Education Board and was recognized across the region as an authority on education-related legislation.

Long, who attended Northwestern State University, helped obtain millions of dollars over the years for construction and renovation projects at the school and for highways, bridges and other major improvements in his legislative district.

He introduced legislation to establish the prestigious Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern and was also the author of a bill to create the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts, a residential high school in Natchitoches for gifted and talented students.

Recognized by the Shreveport Times as one of the “100 Most Influential People of the Century” in Northwest Louisiana, Long was also presented the Lifetime Service Award in Education from the State Board of Regents for Higher Education.

Inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame, Long also received the Public Service Award from the Louisiana Moral and Civic Foundation and the Friends of Education Award from the Louisiana Association of Educators.

He was honored as a Louisiana Legend by the Friends of Louisiana Public Broadcasting along with such dignitaries as Terry Bradshaw, Jimmie Davis, John McKeithen, Eddie Robinson, Dave Treen, Archie Manning, Al Hirt and Pete Fountain.

Long received numerous other honors over the years, including induction into the Northwestern State Long Purple Line Hall of Distinction, Natchitoches Parish Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year and Natchitoches Jaycees Young Man of the Year.

A seven-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, Long was a business owner and cattleman in Natchitoches for more than a half-century. He was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church and held membership in numerous civic and professional organizations.

Long is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dorothy Griffin Long, son Jimmy D. Long, Jr., and his wife Dr. Mary Ingram Long, granddaughters Elizabeth, Mary Grace and Anne Michelle Long, brothers Sen. Gerald Long and his wife Rose of Natchitoches, Bill Long of Shreveport and Carroll Long and his wife Susan of Natchitoches.

Pallbearers will be Sheriff Victor Jones, Dr. Jim Henderson, Jerry Pierce, Joe Salter, Mike Smith, Russell Long Mosely, Joe Pierson and Johnny Koch.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Board of Supervisors of the University of Louisiana System and current and former legislators who served with former Rep. Long during his 32-year tenure in the House.

The family has suggested that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a scholarship fund at Northwestern State University in honor of Jimmy and Dot Long.

Former college head coach Jason Cherry will take over as Northwestern State’s top assistant soccer coach.

He brings a wealth of experience, serving as a head coach at Eastern Illinois for three seasons after being a top collegiate assistant for eight seasons. After his EIU tenure, Cherry served as an assistant this spring at IUPUI.

The former college goalkeeper will coach NSU’s keepers as well as handle a variety of other duties on the staff.

In his first season at EIU, Cherry was named Ohio Valley Conference Coach of the Year, becoming just the fourth OVC coach to win the honor in his or her first season.

He guided the Panthers back to the OVC Tournament with a 6-4 conference mark after the program missed the postseason in 2012 for the first time in its history. Two Panthers (Meagan Radloff and Lauren Hoppenstadt) earned all-conference honors.

Cherry helped Radloff back to the all-conference team in 2013. His 2014 squad won the OVC Sportsmanship award and produced the league’s top GPA (3.62).

He started his EIU tenure in 2012 as an assistant after spending one season as an assistant at Eastern Carolina.

Cherry helped ECU to 11 wins and the Conference USA Tournament semifinals in 2011 after the program hadn’t played in the postseason since 2008. Goalkeeper Christiane Cordero finished her career third in shutouts and saves in program history.

At Western Illinois, Cherry served as the top assistant from 2008-11. He aided the Leathernecks to a combined 26-22-9 record in three seasons including a 15-9-2 mark in conference action.

In 2010, his goalkeepers tied a program record for nine shutouts and finished in the top 30 nationally in save percentage (0.848) and top 55 in goals against average (0.84). Goalkeeper Laura Atkinson was a two-time all-conference performer in her first two seasons.

As an assistant coach at NAIA member Bethel College from 2005-08, Cherry helped that program to a 35-21-12 mark with two national tournament appearances and conference regular season and tournament titles in 2005. Additionally, Bethel won the NAIA Futsal title in 2007.

Cherry played two seasons as a goalkeeper at NAIA member Goshen College.

Kelsy Elkins was announced as the 2016 Miss Robeline Heritage Festival Queen.
She is the daughter of Conan and Yetta and she was born and raised in the Robeline~Marthaville community. She’s a junior at Natchitoches Central High School this year. Kelsy performed as the Sugar Plum Fairy in Sabine Theater’s adaptation of The Nutcracker in 2014. Her dance studio, Dazzle Dance Center, has attended numerous competitions where Kelsy competed solo and on a team, winning awards in various states. A few of her solo awards include:

*2015 Showstoppers Mid America Finals in Galveston, Tx: 1st Overall National Champ for “Swagger Jagger” in solo and jazz division.

*NYLA Dance Competition: High Triple Gold for “Fever” in solo, jazz and senior division.

*KAR Dance Competition: Elite Top 1st, 1st in Division, and 2nd Overall for “Fever” in solo, senior, and jazz division.

*2016 KAR National Finals in Biloxi, Ms: Qualified for Grand National Champ for “Go Hard” in the hip hop division.

The Festival Committee is excited and proud to have Kelsie representing her small town heritage with a beautiful smile and a dedicated heart.

By Natalie Covher

The Natchitoches Art Guild (NAG) and Gallery held their 23^rd Annual Juried Art Competition and Exhibition Saturday, August 6.  Guests viewed over 40 entries while sipping wine and snacking on a delectable spread of tasty treats.  Each guest was able to cast a vote for the People’s Choice Award.

This year’s juror was Christine Bailey co-owner of Norsworthy Art Gallery in downtown Shreveport. She studied under well-known artist Jerry Wray for many years and her formal training includes classes at Bossier Parish Community College and workshops at the Barnwell Art Center. She holds memberships in the Hoover Watercolor Society and Louisiana Artists, Inc.

NAG President and Gallery Director Jo Lapeyrouse enthusiastically welcomed guests. She thanked sponsors, affiliate community organizations, lifetime members and Art guild members who all helped bring the show to culmination. She also thanked the artists.

“Those that I want to thank most of all is the artists,” said Lapeyrouse. “Thank you for what you do and for casting your lot with us. Without you we would have nothing to show.”

Bailey then proceeded to give awards. The Natchitoches Art Guild Memorial Award was presented to LaJean Sigler for her photograph titled Infrared Blues. “Great technique,” said Bailey. “It really does show all the values.”

The Award of Excellence was presented to Betty Yoist for her pastel piece titled Blue Ridge Stream. “Excellent use of a medium,” said Bailey.

The Annie Laurie Award for Innovation and Creativity was presented to Kathleen Byrd for her colored pencil and ink piece titled The Forest Floor. “This is just a great piece that I really loved,” said Bailey.

The People’s Choice Awards was presented to Charlie Viers for his pine needle piece titled Going Sporting Hat. The crowd cheered and everyone wanted to try on the intricate hat.

The Best In Show Award was presented to Mike Yoist for his acrylic piece titled Basis of Life. “I thought this piece had fabulous movement,” said Bailey.

Stop by the gallery on Front Street from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. any day of the week. Don’t miss the NAG Art Auction Thursday, September 15.

Jim Henderson, president of Northwestern State University, spoke to the Natchitoches Parish Voters and Civic League at its meeting Tuesday evening, Aug. 9, at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home.

There’s so much promise in this 21st Century economy because of technology, but only for those who have benefited from an education. It’s become almost impossible for students in the underserved population to obtain the promise of a college degree. This is shameful, according to Henderson. He is working hard to change this paradigm at NSU. This is accomplished by giving students the empowerment they need to control their own economic futures. Henderson said the percentage of graduates mirrors the percentage of enrollments of students of color at NSU.

The college’s mission is founded on the aggressive vision of becoming the premier regional university in the country.

“Our goal is to see every student who walks across the stage at graduation get a marketable diploma. We want to ensure the credentials we give our students are more than just pieces of paper” said Henderson.

Some of the ways the college has become involved in the community include student athletes volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, literacy intervention programs with third grade students in the Parish and instilling students with pride in their university. Henderson has done this by adding splashes of purple across campus and creating a graduation experience with a light show “equivalent to a Def Leppard concert.”

Henderson said area churches can become involved with students through on-campus ministry. “Students need social and spiritual scaffolding that allows them to be successful,” he said.

“I’m excited about the future of NSU and the future of Natchitoches,” he said. “We are at the cusp of creating a truly remarkable university.”

From the Northwestern State University

Jimmy D. Long, Sr., a leader in state government for nearly a half-century, was killed in a two-vehicle accident Tuesday afternoon near his home on University Parkway in Natchitoches.

Funeral arrangements for the long-time legislator and higher education board member are under the direction of Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home and were incomplete late Tuesday.

Long, 84, is the brother of current Senate President Pro Tem Gerald Long of Natchitoches. Before his appointment in 2001 to the Board of Supervisors of the University of Louisiana System, Jimmy Long served eight consecutive terms in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1968 to 2000.

He has served two terms as chairman of the Board of Supervisors, which is the governing board for Northwestern State University and eight other universities across the state. It is the largest higher education system in Louisiana with more than 89,000 students.

Long’s 32-year tenure in the legislature was one of the longest in the state’s history, and colleagues recognized him with a resolution during his last term designating him as “Dean of the Legislature.”

Chairman of the House Education Committee for 16 years and a long-time member of the Southern Regional Education Board, Long was recognized as a leading authority in Louisiana and throughout the South on education-related legislation.

He introduced legislation to establish the Louisiana Scholars’ College at Northwestern and was also an author of the bill to create the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts in Natchitoches.

Northwestern president Dr. Jim Henderson said, “Mr. Jimmy Long’s tragic death has created a deep sense of sorrow at Northwestern State University, which has been enhanced and enriched for nearly 50 years by his remarkable vision and leadership.”

Henderson said, “Tonia and I, who have treasured our close friendship with Mr. Jimmy and Ms. Dot, are joined by the entire Northwestern family of students, faculty, staff and students in extending our condolences and prayers to his wife, son, grandchildren and other members of the Long family.”

Dr. Steve Horton, director of the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts, said, “He was the most selfless man I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Without his vision and forward-minded dedication to education in Louisiana, I am certain that the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts would not be positioned as it is in the country. His influence on our school will always be remembered.”

Dr. Dan Reneau, president of the University of Louisiana System and former president of Louisiana Tech University, said Long’s “steadfast commitment to the board and to higher education will be missed. He was passionate about Northwestern State University, which was only a stone’s throw from his home.”

He added, “Mr. Long and I formed a friendship during my tenure as Louisiana Tech’s president, and I share my deepest condolences with Ms. Dot, Jimmy Long, Jr., and all those who loved him.”

Cited by The Times of Shreveport as one of the “100 Most Influential People of the Century in Northwest Louisiana, Long is a member of the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame and the Northwestern Long Purple Line Hall of Distinction.

He was a lifelong business leader and cattleman in Natchitoches who received numerous other honors for his leadership in civic, professional and church activities.

The Natchitoches Police Department confirmed that the driver of a PT Cruiser died today, August 9, 2016, after his vehicle was struck by a Jeep Wrangler on University Parkway/Hwy. 6 near the Dollar General.

Greg Lemoine, who drove by the wreckage, said Jimmy Long, Sr. was one of his favorite people.

“We had breakfast together the last time I was in Baton Rouge,” said Lemoine.

A Democratic former member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, Long represented District 23 (Winn and Natchitoches parishes) from 1968 until 2000, being the “dean” of the Louisiana House when he returned to private life. A recognized authority on educational policy, for sixteen years, he chaired the House Education Committee.   The Shreveport Times named Long “One of the 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century in North Louisiana.” He was a member of the Long political dynasty.

The Provencal Panthers started off their school year Monday, Aug. 8 with an Open House and student registration event. This year will mark Principal Mary Yount’s fourth year at the helm of the 460 student Pre-K-8th grade school, a perennial top scorer in the district’s academic and athletic standings. This year’s Student Performance Score (SPS) for the school is 91.3, an unofficial grade as additional bonus points, if any, have not been awarded yet. It’s an impressive feat that Yount said reflects the high level of parental support she and her teachers receive from the Provencal community.

In addition to top-notch academics, the school sponsors a 4-H and FCA chapter as well as a full range of boy’s and girl’s sports and cheerleading.

BOM Bank President Ken Hale speaks during the 2016 Community Development Bankers Association Peer Forum held in June in Washington, D.C. Ken was part of a panel discussion on how financial institutions can improve the way they serve customers and expand their reach.

With assets of $300 million, BOM is a full-service community bank with locations throughout northwest Louisiana.

 

Students and Parents attended an Open House at NSU Middle Lab School Aug. 8. The new year calls for new opportunities for students.

Principal Ben Lagrone said they are expanding its computer programming through a partnership with Northwestern State University’s CIS department. NSU professors will teach their students, who will then teach coding to Middle Lab students.

The new Jr. Beta Club will give students the opportunity to be recognized academically. It also focuses on community service. The club is in the process of getting chartered and expects 120-150 members, according to one of the advisors Jennifer Hidso. The other advisors are Michelle Shirley and Jenny Massia.

An additional partnership with NSU will expand secondary education majors’ practical experience. Working with the Teacher Education Center, Middle Lab will partner with NSU secondary education majors to provide one year of experience as opposed to the past, where students were only required to complete one semester of student teaching.

These majors will work at Middle Lab their first semesters and another school for their second semesters. They will start Wednesday, Aug. 10, before NSU’s fall semester starts. According to Lagrone, this helps them experience the life of a teacher from day one. Faculty will structure what the majors learn based on a rubric provided by the LA Dept. of Education.

Middle Lab is also scheduled to renew its AdvancED accreditation, scheduled for the spring. AdvancED is a non-profit organization that conducts rigorous, on-site external reviews of Pre-K-12 schools and school systems to ensure that all learners realize their full potential. The accreditation is renewed every 5 years.

“We’re preparing all our students for success one day at a time,” said Principal Sandy Irchirl. Cloutierville Elementary and Jr. High held an Open House and student registration event Aug. 7. With approximately 298 students, the teachers and staff are excited and ready to keep the kids in school. Some of the school staff handed out punch and cookies while parents filled out paperwork.

The Natchitoches Fire Department is conducting fire hydrant flow tests through Saturday, Sept. 3. The opening of fire hydrants may result in temporary water discoloration that should return to normal within a few hours of the test.

The Natchitoches Fire Department appreciates the public’s patience while these tests are being completed. For more information or questions, please call (318) 357-3860 and speak with the Chief or Assistant Chief on duty.

Jill Wiltz, newly elected 4-H State President, was honored with a reception before the City Council meeting Aug. 8. Mayor Lee Posey presented her with a certificate in the pre-meeting. Wiltz’s family and friends filled the Arts Center in support of her achievement. At the reception, Wiltz was also presented with a plaque of appreciation for her hard work from all the 4-H Alumni in the Parish.

Posey himself is a 4-H alum. He used to show dairy and beef animals. “4-H did a lot for me,” he said.

“As the 4-H Louisiana State President I will be the voice for over 187,000 members,” said Wiltz. “This is a position I’ve dreamed about for a long time. When I was in the seventh grade I watched the state level 4-H representatives walk on stage and I leaned over to my teacher Gwen Fontenot and told her I wanted that to be me. I am thankful for the help she has given me to get me where I’m at.  Wherever your passion lies 4-H has a place for you.”

The last person 4-H State President to be from Natchitoches was Rodney Harrington in 1970.

“It’s been so long ago there were only three h’s,” joked Harrington. “I hope one day when you look back it will mean as much to you as it does for me.”

After Posey presented her with the certificate, he invited the other 4-H representatives to introduce themselves. Fellow student Kate Dickson was elected President of the Louisiana Science, Engineering and Technology Board and Corey Gallion placed in ATV at 4-H University.

The regular city council meeting began with Posey passing out green door hangers with a notice to residents about yard debris. It’s unlawful to discharge grass, leaves or other yard debris into city streets. The hangers will serve as an official first warning and any future violations will result in fines.

“I’ve had a lot of people call me about people putting their yard debris, like grass clippings, out in the street. They asked me why the city allows it. There is an ordinance in place against this and I’ve decided it is time to enforce it. This behavior causes drainage problems. Our workers from the utility department in charge of sewer and drainage say that there can be many feet of this type of buildup washed into system. Cane River is silted up in certain areas to depths as shallow as 3-4 feet. It is time do our part to prevent these types of things.”

Garbage pick-up will still remove bagged debris. This warning is strictly about debris discharged into the street.

An ordinance was introduced authorizing Posey to award a bid for the Lafayette Street Project.

“We are trying to do something on Lafayette Street to make it a little nicer,” said Posey. “Events that are not of a large volume might be moving over there so we don’t have to shut down Front Street. Closing off Front Street reduces options for parking and effects the number of people that go shopping, negatively effecting tax dollars.”

An ordinance was introduced authorizing Posey to award a bid for the 2016 City Street Rehabilitation Project.

An ordinance was introduced granting Atmos Energy and its successors rights to acquire, maintain, construct, lay, repair, remove, replace, install, operate, and dispose of a gas system for the sale, transportation and distribution of natural gas within and beyond the municipal boundaries of the city and to the residents and businesses located therein for light, heat, power and any other purposes and the right to use the present and future streets, roads, highways, alleys, bridges, public ways and immovable property for such purposes.

A resolution was adopted designating Friday, Sept. 2 as an official holiday for the employees of the City of Natchitoches for the year 2016.

A resolution was adopted authorizing Posey to advertise and accept bids for Hancock and Watson Streets, Underground Electrical Service.

The next scheduled City Council meeting will be Aug. 22.