Aaron Belgard and Logan Laprarie dreamed of being college anglers together when they fished in the rivers, lakes and streams of Central Louisiana.

The pair realized that dream as members of the Northwestern State Bass Fishing Team, attending the collegiate national championships each of the past three years.

Laprarie and Belgard landed the largest fish of the 2017 Carhartt Bassmaster College National Championship in August on the Bemidji Chain of Lakes in Minnesota — the duo’s final collegiate tournament in the same boat.

The 6-pound, 6-ounce bass crushed the competition in terms of big bass, but the Demons couldn’t land enough fish as they finished 45th with a two-day weight of 9 pounds, 7 ounces to finish 45th in a 86-team field.

“We started off in the first spot for an hour-and-a-half, but we didn’t get any bites,” said Laprarie, an Effie native. “We ran to a back creek where we caught a decent fish in practice.

“In 10 minutes, a fish blew up on a topwater buzz shad. When we pulled it into the boat, we didn’t think it weighed that much. But it turned out to be the biggest fish in the tournament.”

Laprarie reeled the fish in, and Belgard said several other large bass got away in what could have put the pair in championship contention.

“The fish spit up a half-grown duck in the live well,” said Belgard, a Deville native. “We lost three or four others on the first day that would have put us pretty high.

“But that’s just part of fishing. It’s a pretty big deal just to make it to the national championships, and travelling across the country chasing fish for the last three years has been one of the best experiences of my life.”

Belgard and Lapraire have been best friends since middle school and fished together in organized events in high school.

“We had success growing up, and we dreamed about fishing together in college and fishing in national championships,” said Belgard, who graduated in Industrial Engineering Technology and is working at Beta Engineering in Pineville. “When we were choosing a college, we wouldn’t have gone anywhere that we knew didn’t have a fishing team.

“We knew NSU had one in the past, and I lucked up my first semester and heard someone talking about it. It’s taken off, and we’re established now.”

Club advisor Juddy Hamous said club members can fish in as many or as few tournaments as they want, offering flexibility to students who might have a difficult academic schedule.

“B.A.S.S., FLW and Collegiate Bass offer a lot of tournaments throughout the year, so it’s strictly up to the kids,” said Hamous, who said the club’s membership fluctuates between 12 and 25 anglers depending on the year. “The club has really grown the past few years, and we’re close to the best fishery in the United States in Toledo Bend.

“The NSU team has made their mark, and we’re becoming one of the better known clubs nationally.”

Interested students can find out about the NSU Bass Fishing Team by checking out the team’s Facebook or Twitter accounts or by visiting NSU’s intramurals website.

The pair learned valuable lessons growing up fishing on Toldeo Bend and Sam Rayburn Reservoir, the latter of which they fished in a regional tournament, advancing to nationals with an 18th-place finish.

“Aaron has been an awesome fishing partner, and we usually hunt together, too,” Laprarie said. “With him graduated, I’ll really miss that because we enjoyed that time so much.

“College fishing has been a great experience because being so far from home for tournaments, you’ll have other guys that will help you out. If you see somebody with a blow out, you can fall back on other fishermen because we know each other so well.”

The tandem fish between 10-15 tournaments per year with most requiring a few practice days before a 2-3 day event.

“It can be tough at times, but I planned ahead,” Belgard said. “I’d talk to professors ahead of time, find out what was going on, and most were pretty supportive about it.

“Doing homework in the hotel was common, and you’ve got to have good wifi when an assignment is due at 11:59 p.m. on a Thursday night. But I would tell others go for it, not to let anything hold you back. You have to keep your head focused on school because it’s the main reason you’re here, but you have to chase your dreams, too.”

To learn more about the team visit beademon.com/fishing.

By Doug Ireland

After coming up short in two intense battles against nearby foes who played postseason games last season, the Northwestern State football team won’t leave home until next month as it kicks off Southland Conference competition.

The Demons begin the nine-game conference schedule in Turpin Stadium Saturday evening at 6 against Lamar (1-1). They have an open date Sept. 23 before playing host to Southeastern Louisiana (0-2) Sept. 30.

NSU fell 23-10 Saturday night at Grambling, getting only two scores out of five trips into the Tigers’ side of the field.

Pivotal fourth-period interceptions, missed tackles and dropped passes have damaged the Demons’ chances in their non-conference losses at Grambling and Louisiana Tech, teams that had a combined 20-6 record in 2016.

The outcomes have been bitter disappointments, but the performances and effort reinforced coach Jay Thomas’ conviction that his fifth NSU squad is on the verge of a breakthrough.

“We’ve played two really good football programs. We knew it was a tall order to go on the road against them, but we battled them for four quarters, played our guts out, just didn’t make enough plays to come home happy,” he said. “We’re close. We’ll keep working, adjusting, polishing to get this done right.

“You have to tip your cap to Grambling. Coach (Broderick) Fobbs has done a great job here. We won’t see any better back than we saw tonight (running back Martez Carter, 201 yards rushing and receiving). He’s an NFL-level player, and their quarterback (DeVante Kincade, 231 yards passing on 13-20 aim) is a very impressive player too. It was a challenge trying to defend those two guys.”

Carter took a swing pass 60 yards to the NSU 5 on the game-opening snap, shaking free of defenders at the line of scrimmage and racing down the Tigers’ sideline before NSU’s Ike Warren caught him. Two plays later, Grambling went on top to stay.

NSU’s ground game was ineffective, with running backs Chris Jones and Jared West able to post just 73 yards while quarterback J.D. Almond was sacked four times and lost 31 yards. Almond went 21 of 34 passing, with his only interception coming at the Grambling 19 with 11:49 left after the Demons took advantage of a partially blocked punt and started their possession at the Tigers’ 42, trailing 20-10.

““It was an opportunity to steal the momentum and get right in position to win the game down the stretch. You’ve got to cash in those situations, especially when you’re playing really good opponents, and instead, they made the play,” said Thomas. “There was still time but they got a couple of first downs and flipped field position to make it really tough on us.”

Thomas relishes the chance to dive into Southland competition.

“A whole new season starts for us next Saturday, and it’s the one we work for all year long, to win a Southland Conference championship, to get to the playoffs. These guys just have to taste victory. They’ve got reach out, snatch it and walk away with it. I think we’re going to be good when we get over the hump. We’ve shown signs that we can be a really good team.”

Senior receiver Bobby Chan-Chan and junior defensive tackle Zak Krolczyk concurred.

“This is no time to hang our heads,” said Chan-Chan, who had 56 yards on three receptions. “We’re going to take this game, learn from it, let it go and get ready for Lamar.”

“We’re better (than last year) as a unit, and I think we’re on the verge of something real good when the pieces fall into place,” said Krolczyk, who had a 13-yard sack. “I think we’re ready for conference and we’re excited to get it going at home.”

The Cardinals rallied past the Demons 32-31 last season in Beaumont, scoring twice in the final two minutes to win.

 

Big Calvin is out of town and Calvin Jr. says, “Let’s make the deal!” Cool off with some of Natchitoches Ford’s summer savings. The car lot is overstocked with new vehicles and understocked on used vehicles. Come in now and make a trade in.

Let the party begin with the Calvin Jr. Discount on the following models:

 

 

Find hometown service and the best deals at Natchitoches Ford. Stop by the car lot at 7501 Hwy. 1 Bypass or call 1-888-309-0671.

***Not all buyers will qualify for Ford Credit financing. Availability applies. All factory rebates to dealer. All offers with approved credit. Excludes prior sales or previously negotiated deals. Plus taxes, title and license fees. Residency restrictions apply. Expires 9-26-17. Stock images are for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicles may vary.

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The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts was ranked in the top one percent in the nation, and the faculty have been ranked the third best in the nation, on Niche’s 2018 Best Public High Schools in America list.

Niche’s annual K-12 rankings are based on rigorous analysis of dozens of statistical factors and millions of reviews from students and parents. Along with the rankings, Niche also released 2018 report cards, which assign letter grades to more than 100,000 K-12 schools and districts across America on topics like academics, college readiness and teachers.

LSMSA earned an A+ in academics, teachers, clubs and activities, administration, college prep, health and safety and resources and facilities.

“I am so proud of the accomplishments of our students over the past years,” said Dr. Steve Horton, executive director. “Our entire curriculum reflects a collegiate model in terms of material, textbooks, pace, and our performance outcomes align with those required at universities around the country.

“The majority of our students enter colleges and universities with articulated or earned college credit – often up to 70 credit hours – eliminating the need to sit for AP examinations.”

Horton added that LSMSA has enjoyed a great partnership with Northwestern State University since the school’s beginnings more than 30 years ago.

“Since our faculty are all university-level credentialed, we are able to offer a myriad of courses through NSU for college credit,” he said. “Additionally, our students are able to take advanced-level courses at Northwestern while enrolled at LSMSA, giving them another opportunity to jump-start their college careers.”

Horton expressed no surprise when the faculty were recognized as the third best in the nation.

“It goes without saying that our faculty is one of the best in the nation,” he said. “Our students’ accomplishments are so well recognized because of this faculty’s expertise and dedication to their success.

“We are grateful to Niche for recognizing their value.”

Niche.com provides reviews and insights from every day experts to make choosing a neighborhood, college or K-12 school a more transparent process. It was founded in 2002 by Carnegie Mellon University students as CollegeProwler.com and has since grown into one of the largest content startups in the country.

The Natchitoches Humane Society will hold its last Bath and Nail Clip Event of the year at Tractor Supply Saturday, Sept. 16 from 9 am – 1 pm. This is one of the biggest fundraisers of the year for the NHS. Funds raised go towards helping injured and homeless animals in Natchitoches Parish. For more information e-mail natchitocheshumane@yahoo.com.

 

 

Bath and Nail clipping (Under 60 lbs.) $15
Bath and Nail clipping (Over 60 lbs.) $20
Bath (Under 60 lbs.) $10
Bath (Over 60 lbs.) $15
Nail clipping $10

Linda Gayle Hall
February 11, 1947 – September 7, 2017
Service: Monday, Sept. 11 at 10 am in the Pollock Cemetery

Gerald Glenn Davis
October 21, 1950 – September 5, 2017
Service: Saturday, Sept. 16 (Details TBA)

Deacon Henry Johnson Sr.
Arrangements TBA

Reggie Wayne Peart
December 25, 1950 – September 4, 2017
Arrangements TBA

Nancy Ann Larson
September 25, 1938 – September 2, 2017
Arrangements TBA

 

Natchitoches Central High School
Natchitoches Central 25
Green Oaks 20

St. Mary’s Catholic School
St. Mary’s 62
Winnfield 34

Lakeview High School
Logansport 42
Lakeview 0

 

The lake is currently at 98.5 MSL. and falling. Cane River Lake is now open to all types of boating traffic. Spillway landing remains closed for safety. Boaters are advised to navigate carefully as the flood event caused trees to fall into the lake, shoreline erosion issues, and debris that could cause property damage to props, and/or boat hulls.

The lake has experienced an influx of vegetation from canals and drainage ditches. We will be addressing these issues over the next couple of weeks. Jet boats are recommended to navigation south of Shell Beach, as there is a tremendous amount of coon tail overgrowth Shell Beach north to Orchard Run. The 2015/ 2016 flood events and the above rainfall for 2017 have prevented treatment. The Cane River Waterway Commission has in their budget $400,000.00 with a scheduled treatment for spring 2018. As the water temperature gets cooler the coon tail will drop to the bottom of the lake and begin growth in the spring. Treatments for Giant Cut Grass and/or Spadder Dock will begin next week. Property owners requesting free treatments are required to email crpatrol@yahoo.com and provide physical address and phone number.

For more information and/or questions contact Betty Fuller 318-617-3235

 

MF “Little Bill” Rutledge IV and his brother Shawn were raised with a passion for plumbing and serving the community. With 63 combined years of experience, Little Bill and Shawn grew up learning the trade from their father, grandfather and Uncle Norman Norsworthy.

After making a lateral move, they’re proud to announce the opening of Rutledge Plumbing LLC, in conjunction with Rutledge Road Boring.

Little Bill and Shawn remember going to job sites after school, on weekends and during summer. Working with their family was their hobby.

“Working with them has given my brother Shawn and I some of the best times of our life,” said Bill IV.

Their love for the community was instrumental in the decision to offer this new business venture to Natchitoches, Sabine, Winn and Red River Parishes. The Rutledge family appreciates the support and encouragement it’s received from the communities it serves.

MF Rutledge II started MF Rutledge Plumbing and Heating in the Fall of 1947 with the support of his wife Otho. They ran the business out of their home on Berry Avenue and it soon proved to be a success.

The location moved to Texas Street around 1980, but MF Rutledge Plumbing and Heating has been a family owned business for 70 years. According to the family, about 90 percent of plumbers working in the Natchitoches area have roots back to the business.

MF “Bill” Rutledge III went to work beside his father at an early age. He married Noreen Bennett and they worked alongside family members and many friends until she passed in 2003 after 41 years of marriage. Bill passed in July, 2017.

Opening Rutledge Plumbing LLC to keep the family tradition alive, Bill IV (A master plumber for 25 years) and Shawn (A master plumber for 12 years) appreciate the outpouring of love and support they’ve received from family, friends and the numerous contractors associated with their father and grandfather.

“It’s what we were raised doing,” said Bill IV. “It’s in our blood. It’s what we do. It’s our family.”

Family was a factor in Bill IV and Shawn’s new business venture. Bill and his wife Nancy have one son, MF “Quinten” Rutledge V and two daughters, LeAnn and Meaghan. Shawn and his wife Bonnie have two sons, Hayden and Kort.

“Just like we worked with our father and grandfather, we wanted to have some forward thought for the future of our families,” said Bill IV. “When you think about starting a business you think of your family.”

Among the employees, who are all considered part of the Rutledge family that will be working with Bill IV and Shawn, are Matt Robinson, 50+ years experience; Joe Robinson, 35+ years experience; Joseph Robinson, 15+ years experience; and Charles McGaskey Jr., 15+ years experience.

Call 318-352-3475 or email rutledgeplumbing@hotmail.com for service work, remodeling and all your plumbing needs. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 7 am – 4 pm. Emergency calls only after hours.

Proverbs 22:1
A good name is more desirable than great riches;
to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

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Students from Cobblestones Childhood Development Center celebrated Grandparent’s Day on Sept. 8. Parents and Grandparents of the enrolled students were invited to attend.

Grandparents were invited to attend special activities and participate in a book fair. The book fair featured a wide range of books for younger children under the age of five, including mystery, adventure, fantasy, sports, academic stories, and educational toys.

The center hosted many family members attending the event with entertainment, refreshments and more. Some parents were unable to attend however the City of Natchitoches Police Department and other volunteers helped out. The volunteers escorted children to the Book Fair, assisted with the purchase of books, ate snacks and even gave them a quick glance at the Police cars and motorcycles.

All students helped to plan the fair by creating special art projects for their grandparents and singing songs to celebrate the special day. Cobblestones staff encouraged children to learn life skills while helping to make reading for pleasure a cool activity at their school. Karis Cobb, director of Cobblestones CDC, would like to say thank you to all of the grandparents and volunteers for making the Grandparent’s Day celebration one to remember.

Manufacturers in the Cenla region have partnered with Northwestern State University, Central Louisiana Community Technical College and Northwest Louisiana Technical College in offering a groundbreaking hands-on learning program that allows students to take classes and work part-time in sponsoring manufacturing facilities.

A cohort of four students began the Advanced Manufacturing Technician (ATM) program this fall, which allows the student to earn an associate degree from Northwestern State with additional coursework offered through CLTCC or NWLTC-Natchitoches. Students then have the option to continue on to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology at NSU. Program participants must meet eligibility requirements.

“They work part-time and they study part-time,” said Randy Caskey, an instructor in the program. “They are not paid to be in school. They are considered part-time workers who are in school leaning skills relevant to the job.”

Caskey, who comes from the industry side, said there are an estimated 2,000 jobs in central Louisiana that need to be filled.

“Manufacturers are all over this around the country because factories are more and more automated,” Caskey said. “Somebody has to work on that automation. Companies have realized they have to reach back and create their own skilled workforce. Technology changes constantly and we need workers who can keep up.”

The program is supported by the Natchitoches Community Alliance Foundation and is made possible through agreements with five sponsoring manufacturers, Alliance Compressors, RoyOMartin, Pilgrims, Boise Cascade and Stella-Jones. Caskey said students gain not only work skills, but also soft skills in written and verbal communication, dress code and interacting with management.

“They will have to write and give presentations, just as they would on the job,” he said.

“My favorite thing about working at RoyOMartin is the strong belief in faith and family,” said Brinnen Gordy about his job at the Chopin facility. Gordy graduated from Hicks High School in Leesville. “The company also helps the community. RoyOMartin is the safest plywood plant in North America. I’m thankful that they chose me for the Advance Manufacturing Technician Program for maintenance multi-craft skills. Their partnership with Northwestern State University and Central Louisiana Technical Community College allows me to contribute to the plant’s success and earn an associate degree in the process.”

“Brinnen has been very energetic and eager to learn since he has been here,” said supervisor Luke Briley, finishing and shipping manager. “The employees had an instant attraction to his personality and gladly welcomed him as a new team member. I’ve never seen an employee become so instantly well liked by supervisors and team members. All shift supervisors wanted him to work on their shifts, even during his first weeks here. Brinnen always smiles and does exactly what you ask of him. He’s very motivated to progress in this plant through Pay for Knowledge and Skills (PKS) and the Advanced Manufacturing Technician program.”

For more information on the AMT program, contact Dr. Ali Ahmad, head of NSU’s Department of Engineering Technology, at ahmada@nsula.edu or (318) 357-6751; Laurie Morrow, dean of the NLTC-Natchitoches Campus, at lauriemorrow@nwltc.edu or (318) 357-2443, or Mike Wolff, director of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership of Louisiana at mike.wolff@mepol.org or (318) 581-3594.

By Donna Dyson Horn

Ronald Rains of Marthaville never stops. He is constantly on the move and is always working. But work is something he has done all of his life. After 45 years in the oil field, he retired and has been going strong ever since. Between farming and raising cattle, he has taken on a new project and that is raising muscadines.

I had just made it in from work one evening when Ronald drove up at my house and wanted me to do a story on his muscadines. Long story short, I loaded up and headed out to 3825 Highway 487, right out of Marthaville to see what he was talking about.

When I drove up to his house, he told me to just keep on driving. I did and what I drove up on was a nice fenced in, beautiful and healthy muscadine orchard. Ronald started showing me around and telling me about his plants that he ordered from the state of Georgia. He started this around 4 years ago and has been selling them for the last 3 years. All of these plants have a name: there is Darlene, Janet, Big Red, Scarlett and Ison.

Not only did I get to meet all of these plants and take pictures of them, I also was able to find out just how good these muscadines are for us. They can boost our heart function and promote a healthy heart, help to reduce or balance Cholesterol Levels, help regulate blood pressure, boost the immune system, protect against mild memory loss and reduce signs of aging. We all need the last one! Another thing is that they are also an excellent source of dietary fiber. Another plus we need.

One thing about it, red wine, red grape and grape seeds are fantastic! With these grapes, you can make plenty of wine and lots of canned jelly. One gallon of muscadines is equal to around four pints of jelly. With one glass of wine during or after supper, think of all the benefits you will receive from it, plus you might get a little buzz from it and sleep better. (Thought I would throw that part in.)

Now I bet you are wondering just where can you find these big, plump muscadines. You can call Ronald Rains at 472-8888 or 663-3005. The price is $8 a gallon if you pick and $10 a gallon if he picks. He will deliver, if it’s not too far out. You can’t beat that!

Don’t think on this for too long. I wanted to know about how much longer these will be available and he told me about two more weeks. Another thing, muscadine jelly is good on so many things, one thing is steak. Ronald told me that you would be surprised on how good it is!

According to a Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force Official, on Sept. 6 agents arrested Kevin Raphiel Jr. (B/M 32), Gwendolyn Jones (W/F 38), Shanell Rachal (B/F 44), and Anita Couty (B/F 29) at a residence in the 200 block of Canal Road in Cloutierville.

Agents were attempting to locate Raphiel in reference to a parole violation warrant. Raphiel was apprehended at the residence and 27 Clonazepam pills, 3.5 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and assorted drug paraphernalia was located inside. During the investigation agents observed four children under the age of 12 were present at the residence.

The suspects received the following charges:

Kevin Raphiel Jr.

• Parole Violation

Gwendolyn Jones

• Possession of CDS II – Methamphetamine
• Possession of CDS IV- Clonazepam
• Second or Subsequent narcotics offense
• Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of person under the age of seventeen
• Obstruction of Justice
• Possession of drug paraphernalia

Shanell Rachal

• Possession of CDS II – Methamphetamine
• Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of person under the age of seventeen
• Possession of drug paraphernalia

Anita Couty

• Letting a disorderly place

• Possession of drug paraphernalia

The Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force would like to thank the Citizens of Natchitoches for their support.  Many times an investigation begins with a simple phone call or tip from a concerned citizen.  For this reason the Task Force encourages all citizens to report any crimes in their neighborhoods anonymously by calling 318-357-2248, The Natchitoches Police Department, or the Natchitoches Parish Sheriffs Office.

 

An anonymous donation from a member of the Class of 1989 and her husband in January led to the creation of a Student Success Center that is now open for all students at LSMSA.

“The purpose of the Student Success Center is to provide another study space for the students, another quiet space where they can get their work done,” said Ro Myers, assistant director of academic services.

Myers conducted a survey in the spring asking students what they wanted to be available in the new space.

“They talked a lot about supplies, they talked about a quiet space where they can work during the day,” said Myers. “That is what we want to provide them. We will have faculty members do office hours in there. Occasionally, we will have special workshops and sessions.”

Students also asked for charging stations so they can plug up, and that is available to them.

“All of the tables and chairs are moveable, so if they wanted to have a big group session or do a workshop, they can,” she said.

Textbooks will be available for checkout if a student does not want to drag his or her books across campus. Chrome books will also be available.

“This is Dr. Kristi Key’s brainchild,” said Myers. “Ultimately, we want to be able to have a staff here helping students.”

At the time of the donation, Key said that by drawing from a collegiate model and utilizing the most current best practices in this field, LSMSA will be able to offer its students a more holistic academic support experience in their time on campus with the addition of a Student Success Center.

The $20,000 gift seeded the infrastructure needed to get the Student Success Center on its feet with initial furniture, technology and supplies investments.

All Northwestern State University Demon fans are invited to the Demons Come Out at Night Pep Rally and Molly Ringwalds concert Thursday, Sept. 14. The two events are part of a week of activities commemorating the investiture of Dr. Chris Maggio as president of the university. Events are free and open to the public.
“In honor of Dr. Maggio, we are bringing the Molly Ringwalds, the world’s greatest 80s cover band, to campus for an 80s tribute. We expect students in neon clothes and a lot of hair spray at the Tailgate Field that night,” said Van Erikson, associate director of Alumni Affairs. “There will be food trucks, beverages, contests and a few surprises. The best dressed student will win a $711 scholarship, which was the cost of tuition when Dr. Maggio enrolled at NSU in 1982.”

The Demons Come Out at Night Pep Rally will take place at the Tailgate Field and Collins Pavilion beginning at 7:30 p.m. with students, student-athletes, coaches, spirit groups and the NSU Pep Band there to rally Demon fans for the season’s first home football game, set for Saturday, Sept. 16. The Molly Ringwalds will perform from 8-10 p.m.

“To recognize Dr. Maggio as a student of the 80s, we wanted to plan a tribute to the music, the fashion and the hair of the decade and we are hoping the Molly Ringwalds will bring back fun memories for a lot of our loyal alumni and friends,” Erikson said.

For more information on the pep rally and events surrounding the Investiture, visit nsula.edu/investiture.

 

Northwestern State University’s International Student Resource Center hosted a reception for new and returning international students Sept. 6. NSU has more than 130 international students from around the globe, the result of agreements with other institutions that promote long- and short-term exchange opportunities, dual enrollment and study collaborations. The ISRC opened last year to help students navigate their new environment and become more involved with student life. The ISRC also plans cultural excursions for the international students as well as activities to engage with local residents and can provide information to American students interested in studying abroad.

 

A familiar face to Northwestern State women’s basketball fans has joined her alma mater in a more behind-the-scenes position.

Presley Owens, a two-year starter and two-time NCAA Tournament participant, has been named NSU’s assistant director of compliance. Her hiring is subject to the approval of the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System, which includes Northwestern State.

“Presley is a very bright individual and is always willing to learn, which actually reminded me a lot of my former assistant, Demetrus Caldwell,” NSU Director of Compliance Dustin Eubanks said. “Her previous stint here as a student-athlete, and a coach, is definitely a bonus. Demetrus has laid a solid foundation in this position, and I truly believe Presley will take what he’s done and only improve on it. We’re excited to have her as a member of our athletic services’ team.”
After finishing her playing career at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Owens played two seasons for the Lady Demons, helping NSU capture consecutive Southland Conference Tournament championships.

Owens started 67 of 68 career games as a Lady Demon, including all 34 games in her senior season. She averaged 7.4 points per game as a senior, helping NSU earn the first back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances in program history.

Owens averaged 5.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game in her two years before spending the 2015-16 season as an assistant coach on the NSU staff.

Owens, a native of Vancleave, Mississippi, is a two-time Northwestern State graduate, completing her master’s degree in sport administration in May 2017.

Linda Gayle Hall
February 11, 1947 – September 7, 2017
Service: Monday, Sept. 11 at 10 am in the Pollock Cemetery

Janice “Janie” Carstens Luck
February 5, 1936 – September 6, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9-11 am at St. James Episcopal Church
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 am at St. James Episcopal Church
Interment: Greenwood Memorial Park

Wesley Alan Pinter
August 6, 1982 – September 4, 2017
Visitation: Sunday, Sept. 10 at 5 pm at The Life Church
Service: Monday, Sept. 11 at 11 am at The Life Church
Interment: Ft. Jesup Cemetery

Gerald Glenn Davis
October 21, 1950 – September 5, 2017
Service: Saturday, Sept. 16 (Details TBA)

David Bouton
June 21, 1939 – September 2, 2017
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 10 am at United Baptist Church, in Campti

Deacon Henry Johnson Sr.
Arrangements TBA

Pamela Irene Barnett
October 19, 1949 – September 5, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9-11 am
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Interment: St. Maurice Cemetery in St. Maurice

Reggie Wayne Peart
December 25, 1950 – September 4, 2017

Sophia Davis
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 am at Flower Hill Baptist Church in Keatchie
Interment: Flower Hill Cemetery in Keatchie

Robert White
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 am at St. Elizabeth Baptist Church in Grand Cane
Interment: Community Cemetery in Grand Cane

LaQuinton Johnson
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 2 pm at Mary Evergreen Baptist Church in Grand Cane
Interment: Mary Evergreen Cemetery in Grand Cane

Nancy Ann Larson
September 25, 1938 – September 2, 2017
Arrangements TBA

Frank Westmoreland
August 30, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Sept. 9 from 8 am – 2 pm at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 2 pm at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel
Interment: St. Mark Methodist Church Cemetery in the New Town community

Bertha Gay
August 30, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Sept. 9 from 8-11 am at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home
Service: Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 am at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel
Interment: Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery

The Natchitoches Parish School Board received an update on a behavioral health project for parish schools at its meeting Sept. 7.

If students aren’t emotionally and socially fit, academics will fall to the wayside. The school district entered an agreement with Rehabilitation Services of Central Louisiana can help students. The schools are set up in zones and the services will begin as early as next week.

Rehab Services will provide the following:

A Master and Bachelor Level mental health professional for each of the 15 school to be on site on a full time basis.

All students will be served, those with medicaid and those without. If a client already has a counseling provider, they will be contacted by Rehab Services if a need arises with that student during school hours.

Variety of services including: community psychiatric supportive treatment, psychosocial rehabilitation, psychotherapy, medication management, crisis stabilization and independent living/skills building.

Weekly and monthly reports to the School District
Projected outcomes for improvement include behavior, school attendance and grades through less disruptive behavior in the classroom. This will lead to overall better health for students, which will result in academic school growth.

Another new service that will be provided to the school district is the creation of a school based health center (SBHC) at LP Vaughn. It will provide preventative and primary care to students, teachers and staff.

This is all thanks to the Outpatient Medical Center.  A request for a change in scope was submitted to have the SBHC added to the OMC network. It will be covered under the FTCA. It will be a satellite site of the Natchitoches clinic.  A grant funding application was submitted and notification of award will be received Oct. 1. The plan is to operationalize the SBCH 30-45 days after receipt of award notification.

“They’ll be providing services to our children that they’ve never had before,” said Superintendent Dale Skinner.

Services include well child checks, immunizations, annual physicals, sports physicals, urgent care, pediatric medicine, adult medicine, minor lacerations/bumps/bruises, student de-escalation treatment or referral, dental (student transferred to OMC clinic), and behavioral (student referred to Rehab Services). Any children that are uninsured will be referred to OMC.

OMC’s Chief Executive Officer Carl Walters said the vision for this SBHC began before he came to Natchitoches this year. The SBHC provides health care to children who may not otherwise seek it. It provides children with easier access to care and promotes prevention and early intervention. It also helps children stay healthy, decreases absenteeism and tardiness, reduces school discipline and behavior problems and saves money by reducing ER visits for wrong reasons. All these benefits give all children an equal chance to succeed in school.

“Whether they’re insured or uninsured, a child is guaranteed to get the services they deserve,” said Walters.

Once open, the SBHC will operate Monday-Friday from 7:30 am – 5 pm for students in grades PreK-8. The plan is to have a reception area, three exam areas and a lab draw area. It will be staffed by a board certified nurse practitioner (OMC has already hired someone who can fill the position), one licensed practical nurse and two medical assistants. The goal is to have at least 18-22 student referrals per day (4,320 per year) for sustainability.

Other agenda items included:

Authorize Legal Shield to solicit Board employees according to Board policy

Approve resolution giving preliminary approval to the issuance of not to exceed $3 million of Taxable Sales Tax Revenue Bonds of the School Tax District of Natchitoches Parish, making application to the State Bond Commission for the approval of said bonds

Approve consolidated school board budget 2017-2018Accept Weyeheuser as the highest bidder on 236 acres of merchantable timber in Goldonna

Call for a special election in March 2018 to replace Joella Fowler Wilson Collins on the Natchitoches Parish School Board

Natchitoches Parish 4-H was honored to partner with animal rescue teams to offer aide to animals misplaced during Hurricane Harvey. The team stopped off in Natchitoches today to let the animals exercise and rest for the evening before heading to their forever homes in Chattanooga Tennessee. The 4-H’ers were excited to assist with unloading, exercising, feeding, cleaning cages, and loving on the dogs. Also hats off to the Natchitoches Parish Fair Board and Signa Nu Fraternity for assisting 4-H with this endeavor.

Bank of Montgomery is a Presidential Host of the community reception honoring Dr. Chris Maggio, his wife Jennifer and the first family upon Maggio’s investiture as 19th president of Northwestern State University.  The reception will take place at the Arnold R. Kilpatrick President’s Residence, 1 Normal Drive, immediately following the formal investiture ceremony, which will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15 in A. A. Fredericks Auditorium.

The reception is a time for wellwishers to meet and greet the Maggio family with refreshments and the featured talents of students in NSU’s School of Creative and Performing Arts.  All friends of NSU are invited to attend.

From left are NSU Development Officer Jill Bankston, BOM representatives Micah Foshee and Luke Raspberry, NSU Development Officers Rebekah Burleson and Brittney McNeely, and BOM representatives Carrie Beth Hough, John Sullivan and Tara McKinney.  Opportunities to host the reception are still available.

For information, contact Bankston at (318) 357-4414 or visit nsula.edu/investiture and scroll to the link with information on the reception.

Come tailgate with Northwestern State Alumni Saturday, Sept. 16 from 3-6 pm to kick off the first home game against Lamar University. This tailgate, located at the Collins Family Pavillion, is themed “Backyard BBQ.” Live Music will be provided by the Justin Merritt Band, a local favorite. The Spirit of Northwestern Band will also be hosting Band Alumni Weekend at the tailgate.

Food includes hamburgers, hot dogs, wings, sausage, chips and drinks. Tailgating begins at 3 pm and ends at Game Time.

Just like last year, there will be a selfie booth, vendors, jumps and obstacles for the kids, the NSU Bookstore, and lawn games! There will also be a Presidential Tailgate and Faculty and Staff Tailgate this year…the more the merrier!

Other home tailgating events include:

NSU vs. Southeastern (NSU Family Day): Saturday, Sept. 30 from 3-6 pm (“Fiesta” theme with live music provided by the Drew Danzy Band from Baton Rouge)

NSU vs. UCA (Homecoming, Homecoming King and Queen & Mr. and Miss Reunion, and Scholars’ 30th Reunion): Saturday, Oct. 21 from 2-6 pm (“Throwback to the 90s” theme with live music by 92twenty from Alexandria)

NSU vs. ACU (Military Appreciation – Free for Veterans & Active Duty Military): Saturday, Nov. 4 from 3-6 pm (“Cajun” theme with live music by the Paul and Pete Band from Cottonport)

NSU vs. SFA (Win the Chief): Saturday, Nov. 18 from 12-3 pm (“Western” theme with live music by Beaux Atkins from Shreveport)

Tickets are $10 for all you can eat/drink. All tailgates are FREE for members of the Alumni Association. Not a member yet? Sign up today by visiting northwesternalumni.com/membership. Feel free to pay now at https://nsuvslamartailgate.eventbrite.com or at the event.

Thank you to the Official Tailgating Partner, BOM, and our corporate sponsors, Foy Motors, Barne’s & Noble, Super 1 Foods, Cane River Waterslides, Eagle Distributing, and Maggios for sponsoring 2017 alumni tailgate parties for the entire season. Tickets for the football game can be purchased from the NSU Athletic Ticket office by calling (318) 357-4268.

If there are any questions, please contact Van Erikson, at 318-357-4415 or eriksonv@nsula.edu.

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