By Kevin Shannahan

Kevin’s Gallery

Northwestern State University’s Prather Colosseum was transformed into what was arguably the finest restaurant in the State Friday, April 7th as 20 area establishments presented their best seafood dishes to over 620 eager diners. The event goers enjoyed some of the best seafood dishes to be found as well as entertainment from NSU music students and local bands. A silent auction was also held during the dinner.

The inaugural Flavor of Louisiana is a fundraiser for NSU’s Columns Fund. The funds raised will be used to further the Column Fund’s mission of supporting NSU students with scholarships as well as providing opportunities for students, faculty and staff to reach out to the surrounding community. The event is expected to raise over $50,000.00 for this worthy cause.

Louisiana’s Lt. Gov., Billy Nungesser, was the guest of honor at the event. His office, in conjunction with the Louisiana Seafood Board, provided all of the seafood used that night. The Seafood Board is charged with promoting the use of seafood from Louisiana’s waters. The dinner featured each of the 6 species of fish, alligator, crab, oyster, shrimp and crawfish that are native to our state. Lt. Gov. Nungesser and the Seafood Board thought of the Flavor of Louisiana event as a way to both promote the use of local seafood and as a way to raise needed funds for our State’s colleges and universities.

Friday’s Flavor of Louisiana marks the start of what hopefully will become an annual event. The Bayou State features some of the best seafood to be found anywhere!

The Natchitoches Parish School Board met Thursday, April 6th in a meeting in which the business was largely overshadowed by discussion. All members were present

After the invocation, call to order and Pledge of Allegiance, the roll was called and it was determined a quorum was present.

The Superintendent’s report was on discipline in the schools and an introduction of Mr. Bill Gordy, Principal of NCHS, who presented two young men who placed 1st in the state in AG II and Physics at the state literary rally (come back for an upcoming story on these two young men and NCHS’ superb performance at the state literary rally.)

There was no old business to discuss.

As for new business, the consent agenda was adopted with a unanimous vote. The minutes of March 9th, 2017 were approved. The bills were approved for payment. Out-of-state travel for faculty, administrators and the NCHS cheer sponsor was approved. With the exception of the Director of Human Resources attending a teacher job fair in Nagodoches, TX, there was to be no cost to the Board.

There was some discussion between the Board, the representative from the Durham Company and principals concerning proposed school bus route changes. It was decided to further study the cost issues involved and address the issue at the next meeting.

On the Finance, Services & Insurance Report, there was continuing discussion concerning the first issue, LED lighting and HVAC upgrades at Marthaville. This item was deferred until the next meeting. The Transportation and Tax Commission reports were both received by the Board.

On the Personnel Report, Mrs. Page informed the board of a productive recruitment trip to Louisiana Tech’s job fair. She also announced that one teacher resigned and one teacher was retiring.

As for the Executive Report, there was considerable discussion and friction over the bullying policy in which the superintendent answered Board member’s questions concerning the teacher’s and principal’s disciplinary actions. There was also a discussion about the African American Studies course and its accreditation. The course counts for credit as an elective, but not as a core course for TOPS.

The meeting was adjourned after that item. A special called meeting will be held Monday, April 10th at 5:00. There will also be a reception held for district valedictorians on May 4th.

 

The Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches will hold its annual Pancake Breakfast and 5K Saturday, April 8 from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. The festival style event will take place at Northwestern State University’s Collins Pavilion.

This year the club has put a new spin on an old tradition. The pancakes will be FREE to all guests. The Pancake Festival will also offer a wide array of events including: a pancake eating contest, pancake flipping contest and a free Kids Zone that includes face painting and bounce houses. The breakfast itself will include delicious pancakes, sausage and your choice of beverage (milk, coffee or orange juice).

“We are very proud of the dedication of our club members that make this event a complete success”, said Event Organizer Lee Waskom. “And with our enhancements and expansions this year we are looking towards another banner year.”

One hundred percent of the proceeds raised from this event will be used to support the many programs and projects in the local club including: Terrific Kids, K-Kids, Key Club, Circle-K, Boys & Girls Club water day and many others.

We would like to thank our sponsors that made our “new spin” on our annual Pancake Breakfast happen this year.

Bank of Montgomery
Alliance
Waskom & Brown
First Federal
J&J Specialty Lawn & Landscaping
Smoothie King
Bolton Realty
Weyerhaeuser
Christian Outreach Center
HDBA
City Bank & Trust
Sabine State Bank
Brian Carroll
Cross Financial Group
Dickey’s
Mayor Lee & Evie Posey
Exchange Bank

 

 

The Natchitoches Rotary Club will hold Bulletproof the Blue: A Law Enforcement Experience like no Other Saturday, april 29 from 8 am – 1 pm at Dark Woods Haunted Attraction.

The goal is to raise $10,000 to purchase new bulletproof/ballistic vests for the Natchitoches Police Department.

“Richard DeVargas brought to our committee’s attention the Police Department’s need for 10-15 new vests and that they cost around $500 each,” said Rotary member David Guillet. “When thinking of how we could raise money to help in that, we thought about golf tournaments, skeet shoots, and dinner events. We wanted to do something that would tie directly into law enforcement and the need for these vests.”

The event features three interactive scenarios, involving police issue Glock handguns with “simunition” non lethal rounds, that will put participants in situations designed to replicate an actual police call. There will be “shoot/don’t shoot” decision making involved that will give the participant a greater understanding of the stress that law enforcement officers endure.

With that said, the scenarios are fairly basic and are designed to be fun and user friendly even for people who may not be familiar with handling firearms. There will also be static displays from various law enforcement groups such as K-9, Dive Rescue, SWAT, and others.

“When we spoke with Rotary International to detail the event, they had never heard of anything like this nationwide,” said Guillet. “We felt like there has been some unfortunate misunderstandings nationally between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and we hope that this event will, most importantly, raise a lot of money and be a lot of fun for all who show up, but also put a friendly face on our police department. And we hope this will give the public a better understanding of the stress they endure. I hope everyone will come out and support us.”

This is an opportunity for the public to have fun, contribute to a cause helpful to the community, and get a friendly familiarity with the men and women protecting the community. Dark Woods staff will sell concession items such as drinks and snacks throughout the event.

Tickets will be $45 per person, which will include a T-shirt and BBQ lunch provided by City Bank and Trust. There are reduced rates for group packages, law enforcement, firefighters, active duty military, and students with a current, valid NSU ID. There are also corporate sponsorship packages available at reduced rates. The event is open to anyone 16 and older.

For more information contact David Guillet at City Bank and Trust, 318-352-4416 or Natchitoches Rotary Club on Facebook.

PRE-REGISTRATION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Eight seniors in Northwestern State University’s Theatre and Dance program participated in the program’s first senior showcase in New York City during the university’s spring break.

Northwestern State students Chase Miller of West Monroe, Taylor Smith of Leesville, Jesse Kortus of Shreveport, Annie Dauzat of Watson, Luke Matherne of Monroe, Michael Carrier of Lafayette, Jessi Miller of Mansfield and Marissa McMickens of Pineville were accompanied by Dr. Corey Trahan, director of Northwestern State’s musical theatre concentration, and Professor of Theatre Dr. Vicki Parrish. The students took part in a showcase performance for industry professionals and received six workshops from working professionals.

The group met with NSU alumni Donald Jones Jr., a member of the cast of the Broadway show Aladdin and Bruston Manuel, chief operating officer of RWS Entertainment, J. Casey Barrett, a member of the cast of The Book or Mormon and choreographer Ford Haeuser.

“The experience was surreal,” said Smith. “I’ve always had expectations of what New York City was like, and I’ve always known that’s the place I would call home one day, but this week solidified that dream for me and gave me a lot of useful insight into the business there.”

According to Dr. Corey Trahan, director of NSU’s musical theatre concentration and an assistant professor of theatre, senior showcases have become standard at colleges and universities around the country.

“Our students have been asking about a senior showcase, so we began researching options,” said Trahan.

Trahan was able to establish a relationship with the New York City-based Actor’s Connection, an organization that provides ongoing training for singers/actors/dancers, and presents university seniors in showcases throughout the year.

The eight students were selected after auditions for Bruce Earnest, producing artistic director of the International Performing Arts Institute and associate dean of the University of Mobile, and Trahan held on the NSU campus last fall. Seniors were chosen based on career potential, strength of their singing/acting/dancing skills and their interest in pursuing a professional performance career.

The showcase was supported with a $7,500 grant from the university’s Organizational Relief Fund. Seniors organized bake sales throughout the year to raise funds.

Trahan said six students were contacted by agents who were interested in professionally representing them in the industry. The agents specialized in managing performers for musical theatre productions, commercials, voice over work, film and entertainment ventures. One student is being considered for the national tour of Motown.

“While I may not want to sign with an agency immediately, knowing that two were willing to take a chance on me boosted my confidence and let me know that I am, in fact, ready to make the big move in the fall after I finish my summer contract,” said Smith.

Smith said one major thing he took away from the showcase was the advice he received from NSU alumni that affirmed his belief in how to approach his career.

“While the career we choose is about making those important connections with people, I can find comfort in knowing that the biggest part of casting is working with good people so that each day of work feels less like work and more like an impact,” said Smith. “That seemed to be the overall goal of casting in the city and a solid through line of advice. Be a good person and you’ll do fine. And that’s the career I want to be a part of.”

Trahan believes the showcase enhanced the reputation of Northwestern State’s theatre and dance program.

“The Actor’s Connection and many of the New York City agents were impressed with the level of performance shown by the NSU performers,” said Trahan. “I hope to make this an annual event to assist the students with their transition from academia to the professional world.”

Young at Heart at First United Methodist Church in Natchitoches had its first program in April on the 5th. Easter decorations were provided by the Dethloff Circle of United Methodist Women.

Guests were from the Council on Aging, and the Students of NSU Music Department members who sang show tunes.

Program participants pictured from left were Jiyoon Lee, Mackenzie Bird, Jackson Driggers, Anna Birbiglia, Asher Cozort Van Meeter, Braxton Hogan, Annie Wright, Dr. Corey Trahan, Titus McCann, Hanna Conrad Bradley, Cassidy Giddens and Dr. Vicki Parrish of the NSU Theater Department (Picture by Jolene Anders).

Anniversaries:
Ken and Carol Otto

Participants celebrating April Birthdays, pictured from left, are Yvonne Dupuy, Jolene Anders, Donna Brewer, Carol Beasley and Lionel Dawson.

 

The Master Gardeners of Natchitoches Parish invites the public to its next meeting at Wednesday, April 12 at 10 a.m. at the Natchitoches Arts Center on Second Street.

The guest speaker will be Corkey Bruce from Natural Springs Garden Center & Nursery. Corkey will talk about what’s growing in the greenhouse and the Proven Winner Plant Series.

For more information or for daily tips on North Louisiana gardening, please “like” the Natchitoches Master Gardener Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/NatchitochesMasterGardener/.

Courtney Yelverton W F 23 419 Stoker Rd., Robeline, LA
Failure to Appear (Expired Registration)

James Jacobs W M 20 931 Third St., Natchitoches
Possession Schedule I; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Megan Tucker W F 22 931 Third St., Natchitoches
Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Brittney Smith W F 23 931 Third St., Natchitoches
Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Brandon P. Soileau W M 20 839 Fish Hatchery Rd., Natchitoches
Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Possession of Firearm in presence of CDS; No Seat Belt

Tyland Braden B M 28 320 Brickyard Rd, Natchitoches
Possession Schedule I w/intent; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia;
Illegal use of CDS in presence of a juvenile

Kelvin Turner B M 51 134 University Dr., Natchitoches
Two cts Failure to Appear (Lights when Required; Driving Under Suspension)

Gilbert Robinson B M 130 Mill St., Campti, LA
Failure to Appear (No Proof of Insurance; Driving Under Suspension)

Darrius Warren B M 36 312 Hedges St., Natchitoches
Failure to Appear (One or No Taillights)

Alexia Speed B F 23 100 E. Riddle, #23A, Coushatta, LA
Failure to Appear (Theft by Shoplifting)

Ma’Kayla Jones B F 18 110 Alaska St., Natchitoches
Disturbing the Peace by Fighting

Diaijah Collins B F 18 119 South Bend Dr., Natchitoches
Disturbing the Peace by Fighting

Rolesha Colbert B F 17 1108 Berry Ave., Natchitoches
Disturbing the Peace by Fighting

Tiajah Collins B F 18 118 South Bend Dr., Natchitoches
Disturbing the Peace by Fighting

Terrence Moody B M 21 234 Ann St., Natchitoches
Reckless Operation; General Speed; Stop Sign; Turn Signal

Shannika Holmes B F 34 231 Beverly Hill Rise, Natchitoches
Two cts Failure to Appear

Darren Willis B M 20 325 Pegasus St., Natchitoches Possession Schedule I; Possession of 4Drug Paraphernalia

Herbert J. Baptiste B M 32 305 Jackson St., Natchitoches
Possession Sch I; Resisting; Obstruction; Window Tint; Driving Under Suspension;
open Container; Probation Violation; 2nd or Subseq Offn

Chaise Dubois W M 22 125 Kaffie Dr., Natchitoches
Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Sean D. Griffin B M 25 1109 Lake St., Natchitoches
Simple Criminal Damage to Property

Heather Wall W F 28 109 E. Troop St., Mabank, TX
Domestic Abuse Battery

Shawn Staton W M 29 109 E. Troop St., Mabank, TX
Domestic Abuse Battery

Patrick Bell B M 44 1434 1/2 Phillips St., Natchitoches
Driving Under the Influence (2nd)

Shawn Staton W M 29 109 E. Troop St., Mabank, TX
Attempted Simple Escape; Simple Criminal Damage to Property

Harrison Jackson B M 70 324 B E. Third St., Natchitoches
Simple Arson

Zachary Moss B M 23 440 Fairgrounds Rd., Natchitoches
General Trespass; Failure to Appear

Rynell Johnson B M 26 227 Melissa Plc, Natchitoches
Failure to Appear (Driving Under Suspension; Ran Red Light)

Taylor Oliver B F 23 1410 N. Fifth St., Natchitoches
Failure to Appear (Expired Drivers’ License; License Plate Light)

Billy Smith B M 26 546 Clarence Dr., Natchitoches
Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon; Simple Possession of Marijuana; Possession of
Firearm in presence of CDS; Possession of Stolen Firearm

Lamarvis Jones B M 23 257 Vine St., Shreveport, LA
Simple Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Firearm in presence of CDS;
Possession of Stolen Firearm

Desmond Johnson B M 22 421 Heard Rd., Ruston, LA
Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon; Simple Possession of Marijuana; Possession of Firearm in presence of CDS; Possession of Stolen Firearm; Open Container

Northwestern State University honored five individuals with induction in the university’s Alumni Hall of Distinction, the Long Purple Line, Friday.

Honorees were, from left, world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Julian Bailes, noted attorney G.F. Thomas Jr., vocalist and philanthropist LennDohmann Prince, the late Joe Delaney represented by his wife Carolyn and Dr. Jim Henderson, former NSU president and current president of the University of Louisiana System.

The five were recognized during a luncheon Friday, attended by alumni, family and friends, in which their lives and accomplishments were highlighted in biographical mini-documentaries. Since 1990, NSU has inducted 125 distinguished into the Long Purple Line, recognizing graduates whose lives and careers had great impact for the university, in the community and beyond.

Dr. Dan Reneau, left, was awarded the Trailblazer Award by the Conference of Louisiana Colleges and Universities, hosted at Northwestern State University Thursday.  Reneau, who served as president of Louisiana Tech University from 1987-2013 and as interim president of the University of Louisiana System from December 2015-January 2017, has a long and notable career in higher education.  He was congratulated by current UL System President Dr. Jim Henderson, who is president of CLCU.

They’re members of the Red Stick Rug Hooking Organization and they all have one thing in common. “We are ‘Strippers’ and ‘Hookers,’” said Director Gayle Soileau.

A group of 28 women, and some husbands, will travel to Natchitoches from Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi for a “Hook-In” Convention at the Church Street Inn Sunday, April 9 – Friday, April 14.

“I love visiting Natchitoches,” said Gayle. While most of the group’s members have never been to Natchitoches, they’ve visited through her stories.

The terms “strippers” and “hookers” refers to the tools of the trade. A cutter strips the wool and the women have a hook to pull the strips through their background fabric. They make beautiful hand-hooked rugs of all types with floral, geometric, whimsical, patriotic, holiday and animal designs. Some “hookers” design their own rug patterns while others purchase patterns from designers.

There will be an Open House Wednesday, April 12 from 2-6 pm at The Church Street Inn for the public to view Red Stick Rug Hooking’s rugs and watch as its members work on them.

“We hope anyone who might have a few minutes will stop by and see exactly what we do,” said Gayle.

The other day I was in Marble Slab Creamery.

When one enters Marble Slab, they are not concerned with calories, fat, carbs or anything else related to nutritional values. For heaven’s sake the word slab is in the title of the company. Folks go to Marble Slab for enjoyment.

As I was enjoying my sweet cream and strawberries in the waffle bowl, I looked up on the menu. There under each item on the menu was the number of calories in each delectable ice cream item. The calories were listed by small, medium and large items. My waffle bowl was 110 delicious calories. The ice cream counted as dairy and the strawberries as a serving of fruit.

Ice cream has lots of calories. I didn’t go to Marble Slab for my health. I was in there for my enjoyment. If I go there once or twice a year, it is not big deal in the big scheme of things, right? However some bureaucrat has mandated that I must know the caloric count of my devilishly good ice cream treat. I also do not read the nutritional values printed on the side of the Blue Bell Ice Cream carton. What difference does a hundred calories make on top of my blackberry cobbler, right?

Twice more the calories bit me this weekend. We ate at places that would be considered national chain restaurants. Each had new menus. Each place had the calories printed on the menu next to the price for the menu selection. I was beginning to hurl invectives at the nanny state.

I know that some liberal do-gooder decided that if we knew the calorie content of our meals we might not order something we enjoyed but might select a healthy alternative. It didn’t change my order. It simply made me mad. Hey, government quit bothering me with this information. If I’m in the drive thru line at McDonalds, I likely don’t care how many calories my large order of French fries has. Information won’t lead to transformation.

I am going to continue my calorie research by investigating Dunkin Donuts and Krispy Kreme next. If they are printing the calories under their donut selections, that will be too much. I’ll confine myself to local eateries until they are forced to print nutritional values on their menus. When that happens I guess I’ll stay home and cook.

It won’t be long until big brother will find a way to control your daily caloric intake. You save this article, because in a decade or two some bean counter will be counting for you. We will have a government mandated calorie limit. Your health care premiums will go up based on what you eat. I wonder if the IRS will be assigned the duties of the food police. And you fast food franchisee people look out; pretty soon a Whopper will be taxed as a deterrent only after a warning label is printed on the wrapper. All this is predicted in the book of the Revelation.

This freedom thing is dangerous. That is why Paul was such a radical when he wrote, “For freedom Christ has set you free.” Christians were freed from the requirements of Jewish and Roman religious law. Paul was leading an insurrection against authority in the name of and for the cause of Christ.

I quote a brother who lives in San Francisco. He was upset about city taxation of Cokes from vending machines. Meanwhile no one was placing a surtax on the sale of Starbuck’s coffee. He noted that in terms of calories, Starbucks was the more egregious offender by far. He also noted that the tax burden would fall unfairly on the less affluent, but that is another matter.

He concluded his article,

“Part of being free is being free to make bad choices, to take risks, and to bear the consequences. Part of being free is that you, personally, may decide what you eat or drink. It’s a liberty so elementary that our founders never even imagined that it would need protection, but today, it does. (These same founders also rioted when the British taxed their tea. Which I’m sure Parliament only did for their own good anyway.)”

Christ has given you freedom for and freedom from. He has set you free from the power of sin, death and guilt; even caloric guilt. He has set you free for abundant joyful living.

We will talk about freedom on Sunday in church.

We have donuts with no nutritional information!

Governor John Bel Edwards announced his appointment of Cynthia Sutton, CEO of Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. (CRNHA, Inc.) to the Louisiana Archaeological Survey and Antiquities Commission March 17.
The Louisiana Archaeological Survey and Antiquities Commission promotes the goals and objectives of the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism and advises the department and its Secretary on matters relating to antiquities, archaeology, and other cultural resources. The Commission also approves permits for excavations on state lands.

“Louisiana is home to some of our country’s most significant archaeological and cultural resources, and I am honored to be selected to serve on the Governor’s commission,” remarked Sutton.

Other members serving on the commission include: Raymond Berthelot, LA Office of State Parks, Edward Britton, LA Department of Natural Resources, Kathe Hambrick, River Road African American Museum, Charles “Chip” McGimsey, LA Office of Cultural Development, CRT, Heather McKillop, Louisiana State University, Chaunda Mitchell, Office of the Governor, Mark Rees, UL Lafayette, George Riser, Michael Tarpley, and Kimberly Walden.

Alliance Compressors is a sponsor of the Kiwanis Pancake Festival & 5K at the $500 Big Stack Sponsorship level. The festival is this Saturday, April 8 from 7 am – noon. This year the club has put a new spin on an old tradition. The pancakes will be FREE to all guests.

There will also be a wide array of events including: a pancake eating contest, pancake flipping contest and a free Kids Zone that includes face painting and bounce houses. The breakfast itself will include delicious pancakes, sausage and your choice of beverage.

The Pancake Festival will once again offer a 5k race, which will be held on the campus of NSU. The cost to run is $20 for children (12 and under) and $30 for everyone else. Sign up by visiting kiwanisclubnatchitoches.com or email blounth@nsula.edu for a race entry form.
Pictured on front row from left are Ken Gardner, LaCarsha Babers, Craig Caskey and Greg Burke. On back row are Don Butler, John Cunningham, Dion Boyett, Lee Waskom and Reba Phelps.

Artists are being sought to design the 2017 Natchitoches Christmas Festival Poster.  The theme for the poster is “Christmas in Natchitoches.”  Artists who would like to enter the contest should submit a drawing or painting to the Natchitoches Arts Council using the chosen theme.  The size of the completed sketch or painting should be 18 inches wide and 24 inches tall.  If chosen, the painting will become the exclusive property of the Natchitoches Arts Council.  The chosen artist will receive a commission of $600.
The deadline for entering the competition is Friday, July 7.  All entries should be submitted to Alicia Rachal, Community Development, 420 Fourth Street, Natchitoches, LA 71457.  The Natchitoches Arts Council is not responsible for insuring the safe or timely delivery of the art work to the appropriate party.

Numbered prints in the form of a poster will be available and on sale to the public in early October.  All posters are $35 each.  The 1980-2004 collage posters are $15 each.  The small posters (3 ¾” x 5”) are $3 each or two for $4.  Special prints of the 2008 Fleur de Lis Poster (11” x 17”) and the 2016 Christmas in Natchitoches Poster (11” x 14.5) are $20.

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival Poster has been a tradition for 37 years.  All of the original artwork can be viewed at the Natchitoches Arts Council office located at the Community Development Office (City Hall Annex), 420 Fourth Street, Natchitoches, LA.

For more information about the poster contest, please call Alicia Rachal at (318) 357-3838 or Karen Terrell at (318) 352-6925.

Don’t miss your chance. The Natchitoches Lions Club will hold a Fish Fry Fundraiser Friday, April 7 from 11 am – 1 pm. Meals are $10, which includes fish, hush puppies, fries, dessert and a water. Pickup will be at the Holy Cross Church Parking Lot on Second Street. Orders of five or more can be delivered. Proceeds will benefit Lions Club projects. For more information contact Tina Reagan at 663-6782 or 357-0207.

Eight Lakeview students participated in the Cotton Country Honor Band, an ensemble consisting of 7th-12th grade students from 17 schools in L.M.E.A. Districts I and II. These young musicians rehearsed at Caldwell Parish High School on March 24-25, then performed in a concert March 25.

The honor band was conducted by Mr. Ty Lege, band director at Tioga High School. The selections that Mr. Lege chose for the honor band’s performance were “Skygazer Fanfare” by Randall D. Standridge, “Starscapes” by Brian Balmages, “The Machine Awakes” by Steven Bryant, and “All Star” arranged by Michael Story.

The following Lakeview Jr.-Sr. High band members were chosen by audition to participate in this honor band: seventh grader Zoie Britt (2nd chair flute), eighth grader Kedreion Pattain (4th chair clarinet), eighth grader Jo Porter (7th chair trumpet), eighth grader James Earp III (8th chair trumpet), eighth grader Simon Messengmba (2nd chair trombone), Freshman Myla Porter (1st chair baritone), eighth grader Kain Custis (2nd chair baritone), and eighth grader Amber Hembree (2nd chair percussion).

“Most of these students are in junior high,” remarked Lakeview band director Denise Roper. “They were competing with high school students for positions in this honor band, and they did incredibly well, especially considering the fact that Zoie Britt and James Earp are first year players who are in beginner band at Lakeview this year. The eighth graders did an outstanding job on their auditions, and most of them have only been playing for two years. We were especially proud of 9th grader Myla Porter, who is the first student from Lakeview to earn a fist chair placement in an honor band.”

Ms. Roper also stated that the honor band was very organized and operated very professionally. “Our honor band hostess was Rachel Morgan, the band director at Caldwell Junior and Senior High Schools. She offered great hospitality to the directors and really made the students feel welcome at her school. Several of them told me that they are looking forward to participating again next year.”

When asked to comment on the event, clarinet player Kedreion Pattain said, “I had a great time playing with the Cotton Country Honor Band.” He thanked his band director, Denise Roper, for introducing him to such a great opportunity to make music with students from other schools.

Percussionist Amber Hembree added that, “It was fun meeting new people and being challenged by the music. The memories I made will never be forgotten and always cherished.”

Trumpet player James Earp said that “This year’s Cotton Country Honor Band was very educational and motivating.” He added that he had a great time performing with the 80-member ensemble.

Flute player Zoie Britt remarked that “Getting to do this was a great experience for me. I learned and tried many things that I thought I could not do. I want to give thanks to Ms. Roper for introducing me to this.”

There were many proud Lakeview parents with praise for the students and band directors who participated in this event as well.
“I am so proud off these students!” Cheryl Britt exclaimed.  “They gave an amazing performance! Ms. Roper, your passion and zeal reflect in your students.  The knowledge you teach your students also reflect in the open dialogue you have with them.  I was impressed as I listened on the bus ride home.  The students appreciate you and so do I.  The clinician said you are tough, but you bring out the best in each and every student.”

Parent Tarlisha Johnson-Hudson added that her son Simon had a great time, and that “The kids did a great job and sounded awesome!”

And parent Angela Nealy commented that “I am so proud of my son James Earp III for joining the band at Lakeview Junior/Senior High School. He has now experienced such an amazing musical talent that some never get to experience… I know my son loves band, and it is really good for his future. Thank you Ms. Denise Roper for teaching my son.”

Pictured on front row from left are James Earp III, Zoie Britt, Amber Hembree, and Simon Messengmba. On back row are Kedreion Pattain, Myla Porter, Jo Porter and Kain Custis. 

By Joe Darby

I’m a worry wart.  I’ve been a worry wart for a long time but I’m a worry wart now than I’ve ever been before.  I suppose I inherited the trait from my dear old Mother.  If there was anything at all to worry about, Mother would fret over it and anticipate the worst.

When I was a teenager and felt totally immortal I would dismiss her worries, particularly the ones about me, and tell her everything was cool.  “Don’t worry, Mama!”

Then when I had kids of my own, I saw Mother’s point.  What if my girls got sick, got in an accident, were kidnapped by nefarious people!  Potentially disastrous thoughts bothered me.

My daughters have managed to make middle age with no great catastrophes, although Becky did beat cancer a few years ago.  Praise the Lord on that one, huh?

But I’m still a worry wart because I’ve seen so many horrible things happen to other people and sometimes wonder how I’ve escaped.  I went through Hurricanes Betsy and Katrina without serious problems.  Neither I nor my loved ones have ever had a catastrophic auto accident.  But you never know, right?  What with all those young texters-while-driving out there.

When Mary makes a run to the store, forgets her phone at home and is gone longer than she should have been, I begin to wonder.  Did she have a wreck?  Did she fall in the parking lot?  Was she robbed?  So far, she’s always come home safely.

I even worry when I take my beloved 1939 Chrysler out for a drive.  In the past, the car had engine problems twice and left us stranded, although she’s been running fine lately.  But when I park her downtown to go to lunch, for example, I worry, will she start when we’re ready to go home?

So you can see how my mind works.  If there’s something to worry and fret over, I’ll find it.  Hey, just like my Mother, huh?

And now, geezer that I am, I worry a lot about the weather.  When the weather forecasters advise that a severe weather front is rolling in soon, the anxieties begin to form.  I make sure I have batteries for the flashlights and electric lanterns and take whatever other precautions I can.

Then, when the fronts approach, you will find me glued to the television screens, watching as the forecasters break into regularly scheduled programming to advise us of where the next tornado is expected to touch down.

As you might imagine, I spent a lot of time in front of the TV last weekend.  I even missed a lot of the Opening Day baseball games.

Thankfully, Natchitoches was spared the worst once again, although other Louisianans were not so fortunate.

So the next time a nasty front is approaching, I’ll be watching.

I can see that this column has possibly taken a more serious tone than I had intended.  When I began writing a few minutes ago, my intention was to write a light hearted piece about being a worry wart.  If that intention was lost along the way, and the column occasionally grew grim,  I regret it.

Now I’m going to worry about that, darn it.

District 22 Representative Terry Brown thinks prison sentence reform, business tax reform, and TOPS scholarships will be among the items discussed in the spring legislative session. Lawmakers convene in Baton Rouge next Monday for their annual session.

The Journal spoke with Brown on prison reform and he said “times have changed and there are people in prison serving long sentences in light of the current sentences being handed down for the same crime.” He added “now they’re not in jail for going to Sunday school, but it is expensive to keep non-violent offenders locked up.” Brown said the state could save $200,000,000 a year by reducing sentences to fit the crime.

On the subject of tax reform, Brown said he thinks there will be some attempt to close business loopholes and film subsidies. “It’s ridiculous that corporations pay nothing while workers have to pay the bulk of taxes” Brown added.

Brown said the movie industry tax credit is another thing to look at. “The state is subsidizing Duck Dynasty and Swamp People. The stars set the large salaries but the Louisiana residents who work for the movie industry are mostly in minimum wage jobs” said Brown. He also voiced opposition to state subsidies to the Saints and Pelicans but Brown doesn’t think that will ever change because of the huge New Orleans vote in the Legislature.

Another issue facing lawmakers is the TOPS scholarship program. Brown says he supports it “but if it is totally free, people see no value in it.” He says “about 30% of students receiving TOPS drop out of college in the first year to year and a half. If they get a degree that’s great, but if they play around and don’t finish, they should have to pay it back.” Representative Kenny Cox voiced a similar sentiment in a recent Journal interview. Brown believes the legislature will find a way to fund the TOPS program this year.

Some final thoughts from Representative Brown are that citizens do not want the state to cut back services. He thinks closing health units, cutbacks in higher education, and salaries offered teachers should be addressed. Brown said “to get the best, we’re going to have to pay the best.

 

Please be advised that residents will see an increase to their Safe Drinking Water Fee beginning May, 2017. During the 2016 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature, ACT 605 was enacted authorizing an increase to the Safe Drinking Water fee beginning on January 1, 2017. The Safe Drinking Water fee will increase from $3.20 per connection per year to $12.00 per connection per year.

In an effort to compensate for the new fee change, a $5.00 charge per connection will be added to May 2017 bills. Beginning in June 2017 and each month thereafter a $1.00 charge per connection will be added to bills.

The Louisiana Department of Health stated that this fee has increased to provide funding for additional water testing. The City of Natchitoches appreciates the public’s patience during this process. For more information regarding fee increases please contact The City of Natchitoches Utility Service Center at (318) 357-3844.

Parish President Rick Nowlin spoke to the Walter P. Ledet Coffee Club at its morning meeting April 5 at Merci Beaucoup.

Nowlin traveled to Washington DC recently to lobby for funding for the El Camino Real Highway project. The plan is to build a four-lane highway east to west from Atlanta, Ga. to the Mexico border.

Nowlin also spoke about the Road District 40 tax that passed at the March 25 election. This road fund makes up 40 percent of the total budget for the Highway Department. It brings in over $1 million annually to a $2.5 million budget.

If voters hadn’t passed this tax the Parish was facing severe consequences from shutdowns of some of its operations. “It would have been a disaster,” said Nowlin.

Now that the tax passed, residents are waiting for the roads to be fixed with new money, but it’s never that easy. The bulk of the property taxes come from businesses, not residences. With 9,800 residences in the Parish, only 4,600 pay property tax and 9,400 pay less than 100 annually.

Two 2016 tax propositions would have generated $3.5 million annually for the Parish, but they were voted down by 60 percent. This would have funded approximately $30 million of road reconstruction, addressing the Parish’s major needs.

“I’m not sure voters are ready to vote for another tax but I’m not sure how long we can survive this way. Something seems to be wrong,” said Nowlin. “But you have to play the cards you’re dealt.”

There are always challenges, like the flooding last year, which shut down 151 roads in the Parish system and suspended routine maintenance work on other roads. The Parish had to pay 100 percent of the recovery costs and apply for a 75 percent rebate through FEMA. They’re now working with GOHSEP to get an additional 25 percent reimbursed to the Parish.

But there’s always a silver lining. The Parish has gone three straight years with a balanced budget. Head Start was renewed with a 5-year grant, which will help serve 309 children, which costs approximately $2 million per year. To receive the grant the Parish has matched it with in-kind services since 1991. These services include facilities, maintenance and more. Under the Police Jury, the Parish had to frequently make a cash match because the in-kind wasn’t enough.

A coffee club member asked about the scarifying of roads in the Parish. Nowlin said this is a nation-wide problem with some states turning their highways into gravel roads. While some may see this as a step backward, Nowlin said when planning for the future overlay of roads scarifying is required as one of the first steps in the process. The Council will address the scarification of King Hill and Sisson Roads in an upcoming meeting as residents have turned in petitions for the work to be done on their roads.

Surrounded by family, friends and the Natchitoches business community, Axsom Air celebrated 20 years of of offering cooling, heating, and plumbing services in Natchitoches and the surrounding areas.