The 2017 LHSAA All Academic Football Composite Team has been selected. In order to be selected to the Academic All-State team, the student had to be a senior, played the sport for two years, and achieved a six-semester cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5 or better based on a 4.0 scale. St. Mary’s is proud to announce that two seniors were named to the All Academic Football Composite Team, both with a 4.0 GPA for all 4 years of high schoo.
Pictured are Jay Parker, son of Mandy and Jason Parker, and Jeremy Friedel, son of Laura and Trent Friedel.
113 years after Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity was founded at the College of Charleston, its Beta Omicron Chapter at Northwestern State University honored this tradition of leadership with a semi-formal banquet and ceremony.
The chapter’s annual Founders’ Day banquet commemorated that spirit of friendship with members and their guests gathering at Merci Beaucoup Restaurant in downtown Natchitoches Dec. 1.
The fraternity traces its roots to a meeting of three friends on a quiet Charleston, South Carolina evening in 1904. On December 10, Andrew Kroeg, Simon Fogarty and Harry Mixson started their own fraternity based on friendship and loyalty. The group of three grew to seven; seven grew to eight; eight grew to 11.
Over the course of a century, a fraternity with humble beginnings has grown into a brotherhood of more than 111,000 strong — all because three men made a choice to lead.
In 1956 that same spirit planted roots at Northwestern State, when members of Phi Kappa Nu, a local fraternity, made the decision to affiliate with Pi Kappa Phi and establish the Beta Omicron Chapter.
On December 10, 1905, founder Mixson’s mother prepared a special dinner to celebrate the achievements of the founding fathers in their first year as a fraternity. That tradition continues as student chapters around the country mark the occasion in a similar manner.
Newly elected Chapter President David Johnson welcomed the members, alumni, and other guests to the evening before the meal and presentation of the Founders’ Memorial Service. Members then serenaded the women in the room with “The Rose of Pi Kappa Phi.”
The Alpha Kappa associate class presented their big brothers with personalized paddles as a token of gratitude for a semester of mentoring and friendship.
The Central Louisiana Technical Community College’s Natchitoches campus congratulated its Fall 2017 graduates Dec. 15. As the guest speaker, Tony Davis, stated: “Be curious, work hard and be critical, but equally critical.”
Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (TD): Damien Johnson, Joey McCallie; Business Office
Cierra Demetria Leonard attended Grambling State University in the fall of 2015 with the intentions of meeting new people and studying hard. Coming from a home with pretty strict parents, Cierra knew right from wrong and how to look after herself. School was going smooth for Cierra. She kept up with her studies, made new friends and even met a boy that she started to take interest in. It was all good until the night of February 20, 2016.
She had been talking to this guy (let’s call him Ken) since September of 2015. They have been texting, FaceTiming and even ate together in the school’s cafeteria but she never went to his dorm room and never invited him to hers. It’d been months of being friends so Cierra finally decided to let Ken come over to her room and hang out. This turned out to be one of the biggest mistakes that Cierra could have ever made.
“He was on the basketball team and he was very popular. He was charming and so sweet. He would text me cute stuff throughout the day. He always made me smile,” Cierra describes Ken. “I started to trust him. We were talking for so long we actually became really good friends.”
Ken came over to Cierra’s room and disregarded her wish for him to sit at her desk and not on her bed. Instead, Cierra sat at her desk while Ken sat on her bed. They talked for a little while and then Ken became aggressive.
“He kept asking me why I wouldn’t come sit with him on the bed and why I was acting like I didn’t want him over. I didn’t mind that he was over, I just didn’t want him to think that I wanted to have sex with him. I wasn’t a virgin but I pledged to wait until marriage so I didn’t want to give him the wrong idea,” Cierra told me.
Ken then proceeded to interrogate Cierra on why she wouldn’t sit on the bed.
“After he kept asking me why I wasn’t sitting on the bed, he got up and tried to pick me up and put me on the bed. I laughed at first but I really wanted him to stop. I told him to stop and to put me down but he wouldn’t,” Cierra told me. Ken threw Cierra on the bed and begin to pin and push her down. “I tried to fight him off but I got scared so I just froze in fear.”
Cierra recalls just lying there as Ken proceeded to have sex with her without her consent. “I was torn apart. I was in disbelief that something like that happened to me. I would always say that I would never get raped and I never imagined it happening to me the way it did. I tried to report him but since he was on the basketball team, the police officers asked me if I could just forget about what happened.” Cierra told me. “After being told that, I went to a very dark place. I felt like no one was there for me.”
Over 150 people gathered at the Prudhomme Rouquier House Dec. 15 for dinner, entertainment and community betterment. The evening marked Natchitoches’ Dream Foundation’s 14th annual Party With a Purpose. A band played outside for partygoers while a DJ played inside the house. Thelma Benjamin and her friends provided some of the best catering to ever grace the Prudhomme-Rouquier House.
The foundation awarded $500 scholarships to three area high school seniors to help them achieve their dreams for the future. Natchitoches Central’s Steven R. Harris, Jr., Lakeview’s Alexis Smith and the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts’ Thomas Parker were recognized for their achievements at the event. Mr. Harris hopes to continue his studies at Howard University in Biology/Pre-Med. Ms. Smith will be attending Northwestern State University where she will be majoring in Nursing. Mr. Parker will be pursuing computer science and animation. The students were selected by a panel of community members who considered each applicant’s academic achievement, essay, and community involvement.
The evening was more than scholarships and fun however. The foundation also collected toys for needy area children with each person in attendance bringing in a new toy as part of their admission to the event. The collected toys will be distibuted by the Natchitoches Sheriff’s Department to needy parish children.
The Dreams Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit. Persons interested in helping further their good works in the community may contact Mr. Cloyd Benjamin at 318-352-7575
BOM held its Annual Christmas Party Dec. 15 with over 200 people celebrating another wonderful and successful year. New employees for 2017 were introduced. Staff who reached 5, 10 and 15 year anniversaries were recognized. Awards were presented for Teller of the Year, Loan Officer of the Year, Perfect Attendance, Friend of BOM Financial Services, and so much more! BOM feels blessed to have so many amazing employees who do so much for their customers and the community.
BOM employees reaching 5 years: Stephen Van Sickle, Sarah Giannone and Chari B. Addison.
BOM Employees reaching 10 years: Brian Ohnoutka, Craig George, Ronald Roy, Dwayne Myers, Chasity Adcock and Carrie Burns Hough.
BOM Employees reaching 15 years: Mary Elizabeth Bullock, Mark Lipa and Anastasia Christophe.
Friend of BOM Financial Services award recipients: Craig George, Brian Ohnoutka, Jd Hartley and Jana Freeman.
James Robert Jones January 30, 1943 – December 15, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 1-2 pm at Hargis Baptist Church Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 2 pm at Hargis Baptist Church
Jeffery Lewis Lachney May 2, 1996 – December 12, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 11 am – 1 pm at Hineston Tabernacle of Hineston
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 1 pm at Hineston Tabernacle
Interment: Calvary Cemetery in Gardner
Rocky Lane LaCaze December 30, 1963 – December 10, 2017
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 1:30 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchitoches
Interment: Bay Springs Cemetery in Chopin
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 9 am – 1:30 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Anthony Michael Christian “Tony” Murray October 12, 1987 – December 10, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 8-9 am at the John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 9 am in the chapel of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Bob Shoalmire August 18, 1938 – December 13, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 5-8 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Service: Tuesday, Dec. 19 at 10 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchitoches
Interment: Oak Grove Cemetery in Converse
Provencal Community Development will host Christmas in the Village in downtown Provencal on Saturday, Dec. 16 (TONIGHT) beginning at 5:30 pm. There will be cookies, hot chocolate, Santa and fireworks! This event is free and open to the public.
Danielle Conde won $245 just in time to do a little Christmas shopping. She’s been playing the Mystery Sound Cash Contest, sponsored by AxsomAir, on 94.9 The River.
“We’ll do it all again Monday morning with a brand new sound and a brand new jackpot,” said Trini Triggs. Each weekday morning between 7-10 am, Trini will take calls from listeners who think they know what the mystery sound is.
The first caller to guess correctly will win the jackpot. But wait, it gets better! For each incorrect answer, $5 will be added to the pot. The River Line is 318-581-4025.
Northwestern State University conferred degrees to 865 graduates who completed coursework in the Summer 2017 and Fall 2017 semesters. Commencement speaker was Alejandro Perkins, chair of the board of supervisors for the University of Louisiana System.
Fall graduates in the Natchitoches area are as follows.
Aimwell — Jonathan Poole, Associate of General Studies;
Alexandria — Fatisha White, Associate of Science in Nursing; Courtney Moore, April Negrete, Senchal Slaughter, Leslie Trowel, Associate of General Studies; Rochelle Holmes, Tammethia Starks, Joshua Wahlder, Bachelor of Arts; Jordan Berlin, Bachelor of General Studies; Alecia Alford, Tamera DiBartolo, Natasha Guidry, Emily Leone, Wade Morris, Kaycee Ouber, Sage Sasser, Bachelor of Science; Irisia Cayton, Kimberly Colston, Amy Girtman, Sha’Darius Plummer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Courtney Brown, Amelia Ryland, Bachelor of Social Work; Alaine Ryder, Master of Arts; Rebecca Poklemba, Master of Arts in Teaching; Afnan Othman, Master of Science;
Ball — Heather Richey, Associate of General Studies; Payton Pilgrim, Bachelor of Arts; Michaela Henry, Jennifer Hughes, Bachelor of Science; Sarah Morgan, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Benton — Sara Hale, Frederick Hapgood, Jenna Smith, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Mary Chambers, Master of Science in Nursing;
Bossier — Sonja Williams, Bachelor of Applied Science; Whitney Guidry, Bachelor of Science; Elisa Ceballos, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Bossier City — Latasha Bates, Randy Bounds, Amanda Harner, Adrianne Jones, Arnold Merry, Jessica Randall, Leann Shell, Associate of Science in Nursing; Amy Russell, Associate of General Studies; Zachary Ekendahl, RaeShauna Lacy, Heather Oswald, Bachelor of Arts; Krystal Abraham, Bachelor of General Studies; Sheldon Busby, Bachelor of Music; Mary Katheryn Lummus, Bachelor of Music Education; Desiree Anderson, Christina Ashley, Tanner Church, Sharon Clark, Sharonda Demars, Hang Lian, Gina Masson, Stephen Masson, Michelle McIntyre, Michelle McIntyre, Sarah McMillan,Yadira Ocanas, Kevin Smithey, Bachelor of Science; Lindsay Adkins, Janeth Bird, Emilee Branch, Nancy Diaz, Janay Jefferson, Alexa McKnight, Madison Morris, Taylor Pinney, Amber Suttle, Michael Thomas, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Melody Hammett, Master of Arts in Teaching; Victoria Sanford, Aaron Viviano, Master of Education; Delanie Nock, Master of Science;
Boyce — Brooke Carlini, Associate of General Studies; John Carley, Bachelor of Music; Stacey Gannaway, Bachelor of Science; Cynthia Menton, Master of Arts;
Campti – Brittney Arnold, Crystal Roberson, Associate of General Studies; Domonique Gardner, Ebony Lee, Kelsey Perot, Bachelor of Science, Ruby Johnson, Master of Arts;
Chopin – Dakota Nichols, Bachelor of Science;
Coushatta – Laura Keith, Associate of Science in Nursing; Destiney Coatney, Precious Smith, Associate of General Studies; Tyler Scott, Bachelor of Arts; Allison Longino, Bachelor of Science; Nichola Bryant, Janet Cogburn, Jeanetta Emmitt-Taylor, Karisma Jones, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Nicholas Williamson, Master of Arts in Teaching;
Derry – Viola Roque, Bachelor of Social Work;
Florien – Calli Robertson, Bachelor of General Studies; Zachary Williams, Meagan
Wilmore, Bachelor of Science;
Goldonna – Hannah McGrew, Bachelor of Science;
Haughton – Jonna Vetter, Associate of Science in Nursing; Christopher Moore, Bachelor of Arts; Sherrie Singleton, Bachelor of General Studies; Connor Geer, Aly Hesson, Lucas Moncla, Bachelor of Science; LeDarian Frank, Lauren Lopez, John Nance, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Hannah Teutsch, Bachelor of Social Work; Stephanie Grubbs, Master of Science;
Leesville – Jeffrey Santos, Bachelor of Arts; Kelly Bishop, Caitlin Deon, Hannah Doyal, Johnny Hagan, Megan McDonald, William Midkiff, Bachelor of General Studies; Katlyn Austin, Kylee Cook, Alvin Dowden, Douglas Edds, Madison Hall, Karyn Jones, Reagan Koury, Anthony Rios, Kaplan Rolon, Bachelor of Science; Hannah Longo, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Kaitlyn Connors, Natalie West, Bachelor of Social Work; Jessica McKee, Master of Arts;
Lena – Tracy Benjamin, Associate of General Studies, Brandon Guin, Bachelor of Science;
Mansfield – Brandon Kent, Norinthian Phillips, Bachelor of General Studies, Rebecca Anthony, Erin Campbell, Jairus Lane, Bachelor of Science; Shelby Hebert, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Many – Tracey Gosey, Elizabeth Landry, Associate of Science in Nursing; Christopher Henley, Associate of General Studies; Gabrielle Murphy, Bachelor of Arts; Kaley Leach, Taylor Leach, Bachelor of General Studies; Nicholas Ezernack, Sarah Richie, Kimberly Voorhies Bachelor of Science; Shelby Clifton, Sarah Heard, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Micala Britt, Master of Arts in Teaching;
Marthaville — Renee Bergeron, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Natchez – Rollyn Colbert, Pearlie Jones, Associate of General Studies; Jennie Bayonne, Bachelor of Science;
Natchitoches– Anthony Boddie, LaQuita Collins, Sarah Flowers, Crystal Long, Maina Ibn Mohammed, Choicelaun McClinton, Jessica Perry, Rodney Robinson, Associate of General Studies; Andrew Nieman, Associate of Science in Nursing; Terrius Bell, Associate of Science; Whitney Brock, Shayla Johnson, Joseph McClung, Cynthia Troquille, Ashlyn Vitte, Bachelor of Arts; Jana Armour, ZaChary Clark, Brandon Jackson, Justin Metoyer, Bachelor of General Studies; Emilio Castro, Paul Monroy Galeyeva, Kaylee Weakley, Bachelor of Music; James Almond, Whitney Buntyn, Heather Burrell, Emilio Castro, Colton Chadick, Jashovion Cole, Ehris Faulkner, Thaven Jackson, Christian Jones, Joshua Kaufman, Lyia Kennedy, Lindsay Lee, Paul Melancon, William Montgomery, Ethan Mouton, Xandria Petty, Nigel Severin, Jessica Spear, Faith Stanfield, Brianna Stelly, Matthew Westerfield, Bachelor of Science; Taji Helaire, Casi Killian, Roquel Merritte, Matthew Metoyer, Kaitlin Oliphant, ShaRhonda Zeno, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Brittany White, Bachelor of Social Work; Raney Chambers, Gary Dupree, Krystyn Dupree, Taylor Whitehead, Master of Arts; Victoria Hippler, Jenae Williams, Master of Arts in Teaching; Molly McNeely, Sara McShan, Christy Rawls, Master of Education; Elkin Cabeza Jimenez, Master of Music; Justin Kerin Dollar, Master of Science;
Oak Grove – Lara Harper, Master of Arts in Teaching;
Pineville – Brianna Marzett, Associate of Science in Nursing; Heather Fontenot, Associate Degree; Jessica Clark, Maurissa Miles, Robert Stockdale, Associate of General Studies; Justin Jenkins, Bachelor of Arts; Savanna Lass, Jessica Nichols, Bachelor of General Studies; Maurissa Miles, Loren Ryland, Bachelor of Science; Kaylee Chronister, Samantha Sibley, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Clifford Darby, Rebecca Farmer, Master of Arts; Callie Hardy, Deanna Hodges, Faith Normand, Master of Education;
Pleasant Hill – Stephanie Pulzone, Bachelor of Science;
Provencal – Clifton Brian, Associate of General Studies;
Robeline – Arica Ammons, Sarah Cates, Associate of General Studies; William Rachal, Bachelor of Arts; Christian Hamous, Bachelor of General Studies; Kelcey Dubois, Michael Young, Bachelor of Science;
Saline – Cheyenne Roberts, Associate of General Studies; Sincerely Qualls, Bachelor of Science;
Shreveport – Ashlee Blow, Joseph Gouthiere, Danielle Hynes, Ashley Jackson, Taylor Joest, Kristi Laborde, Megan Richard, Hannah Smith, Kamilah White, Associate of Science in Nursing; Chad Bell, Nikisha Boyd, David Holmes, Carol Kitterlin, Kelsey Metoyer, Marcus Williamson, Associate of General Studies; Tiffany Greggs, Sasha Harris, Starlet Reaves, Bachelor of Applied Science; Kassidee Kennedy, Bachelor of General Studies; Ashley Hardeman, Shaffer Kimball, An-Gel Samuel, Javonti Thomas, Rodkeia Turner, Bachelor of Arts; Elizabeth Antee, Erica Brothers, Unique Carter, Jalen Clark, Tristine Czaska, Lashayle Ester, Nicholas Fergson, Sean Flair, Jace Gaines, Kiera Jones, Erin LeClair, Casey Long, Hunter Martin, Brianna Mason, Brittany Nail, Joann Nelson, Kendrick Payne, Anthony Richard, Anna Richardson, Kashona Stewart, Rachel Taylor, Bachelor of Science; Ar’keli Armstrong, Ethan Branch, Brianna Burke, Michael Cade, Rikkia Ceasar, Celeste Clifton, Charlette Crawford, Brandy Ellison, Cander Freret, Courtnei Green, Cavonte Jones, Jason Joshua, Dana Patterson Evans, Deanna Peveto, Jayla Washington, Yao Wang, Erica Zuniga, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Valarie Francis, Cynthia Terrell, Bachelor of Social Work; Jordan Dixon, Alexis Smith, Master of Arts; Angela Brewer, Masteer of Arts in Teaching; Rashada Abraham, Master of Education; Shanice Henderson, Michelle Leger, Angelia Williams, Master of Science;
Sibley – Shantika Jackson, Associate of General Studies;
Winnfield – Rebecca Hodnett, Branden Jennings, Bachelor of Science;
Zwolle – Jared Fisette, Bachelor of Science.
Summer graduates by hometown are:
Alexandria — Robert Ardoin, Lewis Davis, Tara Hall, Bachelor of Science; Cassandra Armstrong, Taryn Collins, Dustin Cross, Latonya Henry, Deborah Powell, Madison Ross, Elizabeth Whitcher, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Ty Lege, Master of Music; Virginia Beall, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Bossier City — Shatondra Horton, Associate of General Studies, Daniel Dorsey, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Desiree Anderson, Associate Degree; Jana Morgan, Bachelor of General Studies; Jose Cardenas, Bachelor of Science; Candace Baird, Sara Blankenship, Mikaela Byrnes, Audrey Friesen, Morgan Hudson, Kalli Loyd, Courtney Pierce, Toni Thompson Johnston, Sara Woods, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Katherine Rains, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Sarah Schackelton, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Campti — Jason Ivey, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Coushatta — Shelly Franks, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Florien — Anna Parker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Kathryn Thaxton, Master of Arts in Teaching;
Fort Polk — Melissa Gasho, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Leesville — Malak Alammar, Associate of General Studies, Violeta Sifuentes Shaffer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Lena — Lea Hawkins, Post Masters Certificate;
Mansfield — Ismael Castillo, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Many — Roderick Davis, Associate of General Studies; Donya Tatum, Master of Education;
Natchitoches — Hannah Brown, Christopher Cousins, David Durr, Elizabeth Long, Michael Mayeux, Lauren Rachal, Associate of General Studies; Stephen Lawson, Bachelor of Arts; Shircarra Dobin, Bachelor of General Studies; Jeremy Cox, Katelynn Raggio, Bachelor of Science; Greg St. Andre, Master of Science; Jessica Garcia, Jenny Massia, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Pineville — Mary Lambert, Associate of General Studies; Brandon Timmon, Bachelor of Science; Heather Craig, Sarah Daigre, Breana Rogers, Henry Wolff, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Karlee Jones, Rachel Sasser, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;
Robeline — Payton Nichols, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Shreveport — Elizabeth Antee, Associate Degree; Grace Bates, Courtney Bell, Tonnette Clark, Jalen Fleming, Candance Jones, Kimberly LaLena, Kristian Penn, Donna Wiggins, Associate of General Studies; Elizabeth Huff, Bachelor of Applied Science; Ellen Nelson, Bachelor of Arts; Philessa Henderson, Bachelor of General Studies; A Taylor Bray, Crystal Brown, LaurenAnn Delaune, Kendra Johnson, Khandice Smith, Bachelor of Science; Brionne Blanche, Crystal Claunch, Jodie Ford, Kari Harris, Ashley Holbrook, Adrianne Kelly, Brittany Malinovsky, Alexandra McAfee, Fred McClure, Mark Mitchell, Martha Vazquez, Celte Weaver, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Rosaline Caldwell, Doctor of Nursing Practice;
Winnfield – Carl Bryant, Bachelor of General Studies; Joseph White, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;
Zwolle – Shanna Green, Joshua Lewis, Associate of General Studies; Hannah Ezernack, Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Students from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts decorated a “Chemistree” in honor of the holiday season. They used items from the chemistry lab to decorate the tree, which is displayed on the third floor of the High School Building.
Pictured from left are Dr. Chris Hynes, Kerry Doyle, a senior from Eros, Ruby Kharod, a senior from Opelousas, Stephanie Osten, a senior from Crowley, and Christopher Tonnies, a junior from Bossier City.
Kiwanis recognized Terrific Kids for the Month of November at St. Mary’s Catholic School. Pictured on front row from left are Ella Hardee, Sydney Culotta, Pierce Hymes, Chloe Methvin, and Rayanna Norsworthy. On back row are Carrie Beth Hough (BOM), Dalton Waters, Nathan Slaughter, Nathan Cain, Anderson Kelly, Brandy Hebert (1st grade aide) and Brandy Tilley (BOM).
Members of the Delta Sigma Theta Inc. stopped by 94.9 The River (Radio M*A*S*H), the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, and CASA of Natchitoches to donate several handmade dolls to toy drives benefitting children in Natchitoches Parish.
Donations for the NPSO toy drive can be made at 200 Church Street in Natchitoches.
Contact Deputy Carolyn Essex, NPSO Toy Drive Coordinator, for more information at 357-7812.
Northwestern State University recognized top graduates from the Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development, the Louisiana Scholars’ College and the College of Arts and Sciences prior to morning commencement exercises Dec. 15. Seated from left are Dakota Newman of Baton Rouge, Kaylee Weakley of Lamar, Colorado; Josie Greer of Jonesboro and Connor Geer of Haughton. Standing are Commencement Speaker Alejandro Perkins, chair of Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System; Anna Register of Shreveport, Emily Ryan of Marksville, Breana Remedes of Noble, Hunter Martin of Shreveport, Shelby Glynn of Houma, Alexis Britt of Keithville, Lindsay Lee of Natchitoches, Rachel Moran of Metairie, Weston Scholten of Temple, Texas, and NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio.
Northwestern State University recognized graduates from the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health and the College of Business and Technology prior to afternoon commencement exercises on Dec. 15. On the front row from left are Hailee Rhodes of Spring, Texas; Sarah Morgan of Ball, Maggie Harris of West Monroe and Sen. Gerald Long. On the back row are Dr. Jim Henderson, president of the University of Louisiana System; Commencement Speaker Al Perkins, Hang Bawi Lian of Bossier City, Jason Horst of Madisonville, Ryan Harmon of Minden, Sarah Heard of Many, Kaylan Showers of Independence and NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio.
Graduating senior Shaffer A. Kimball of Shreveport was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in conjunction with commencement exercises at Northwestern State University Dec. 15. Kimball, who was an outstanding cadet in NSU’s ROTC program, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. He is a Distinguished Military Graduate and will serve on active duty as an infantry officer. Lt. Col. Katherine Carlson, professor of military science at NSU, administered the oath of office during the university’s afternoon commencement ceremony.
She’s three out of four siblings and one of them is an adopted sister named Melanie. She’s not your ordinary sister or sibling. She’s a walking angel on earth and I’m a living proof and witness.
Have you ever met someone that’s naturally sweet and gentle? I’m talking about would never think about harming anybody and have a spiritual gift. I wonder how you deal with being one out of four siblings and having an adopted sister. She said I deal with it by stepping up and helping my parents out with parenting.
Briana see’s Melanie no different than her brothers. At one point she was the only girl and always needed a girl to play with as a kid. She noticed as she got older they grew closer. Briana’s brothers and sister really love her and know that she’s the sweetest person and has this gift of healing. We’ll talk about Briana’s versatile and astonishing life later.
Briana’s presence brings her siblings and family the true definition of peace. I know for me, it would be hard to have patience with two brothers and a sister. Have I mentioned that she’s the oldest out of all her siblings? She steps up and is very mature when it comes down to holding that title of being the oldest sibling. Her parents said even though Briana is the oldest she’s so special and when her mom birthed her she knew she was going have an impact to other people lives.
I know for a fact she has had an impact on my life. Just to throw it out
there Briana is my girlfriend and we’ve been talking for 3 years. That’s another story but I’m concentrating on Briana’s life more than our relationship.
When you mention Briana Rose Harrison most people know her for her singing ability. She’s not your average singer. She’s a worship leader singer at my church and her voice is a spiritual healing. I can say I’m living proof to that. Over the summer Briana and I went to a church summer camp. Briana sung to me and laid a hand on me and I busted out in tears of joy and it sounded like an angel was talking. I asked her, “How do you use your voice of singing as a healing tool for others and why did you decide to perform with it?” She said she’s just a vessel.
“I have decided to use my gift because of the support I received from my best friend Abagail Vasquez before she passed,” she said. After the tragic accident, her dad prophesied over her that she would use her gift to worship. She lost her friend Abagail at the age of 13. Abagail died in a tragic car wreck. It’s crazy how life works because Abagail talked to Briana the day before she died. She told Briana her voice is very different and she would love to see her best friend on American Idol.
At that time Briana never thought about performing in public. In September, 2017 Briana decided to audition for American Idol. American Idol loved her voice and accepted her to audition her beautiful voice. Briana made it to the second round but never tried out again because she said it was more for Abagail. She’s not all into the hype.
I wonder sometimes how she deals with losing a best friend at a young age. I can relate because I lost four best friends to the streets. I was curious so I questioned her one day, How did you deal with your best friend Abagail Vasquez passing away at a young age and how did it change your way of thinking?
Pearl Tate
December 4, 1927 – December 14, 2017
Graveside service: Sunday, Dec. 17 at 1:45 pm in Springville Cemetery
Jeffery Lewis Lachney May 2, 1996 – December 12, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 11 am – 1 pm at Hineston Tabernacle of Hineston
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 1 pm at Hineston Tabernacle
Interment: Calvary Cemetery in Gardner
Rocky Lane LaCaze December 30, 1963 – December 10, 2017
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 1:30 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchitoches
Interment: Bay Springs Cemetery in Chopin
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 9 am – 1:30 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Anthony Michael Christian “Tony” Murray October 12, 1987 – December 10, 2017
Visitation: Sunday, Dec. 17 from 5-8 pm and Monday, Dec. 18 from 8-9 am at the John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Service: Monday, Dec. 18 at 9 am in the chapel of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Geraldine Antilley Stuchlik January 7, 1938 – December 12, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 16 from 8:30-10 am
Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 10 am in the chapel of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home
Interment: Czech National Cemetery in Kolin
Bob Shoalmire August 18, 1938 – December 13, 2017
Visitation: Monday, Dec. 18 from 5-8 pm at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Service: Tuesday, Dec. 19 at 10 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home of Natchitoches
Interment: Oak Grove Cemetery in Converse
Harold Ware, Sr. Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 11 am at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Frierson
Interment: Mt. Zion Cemetery in Frierson
Marie H. Jackson Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 11 am at Union Spring Baptist Church in Mansfield
Interment: Carver Cemetery in Shreveport
Freddie L. Atkins Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 12 pm at Cedar Hill Baptist Church in Grand Cane
Interment: Friendship Cemetery in Grand Cane
Roy Lee Wells Graveside Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 1 pm at Gethsemane Baptist Church Cemetery in Mansfield
Interment: Gethsemane Church Cemetery in Mansfield
Patricia Youngblood Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 2 pm at Union Spring Baptist Church in Mansfield
Wallace Brumfield Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 2 pm at New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Many
Interment: Morning Glory Cemetery in Mansfield
Theresa LaCour Beaudoin April 16, 1928 – December 9, 2017
Visitation: Saturday, Dec. 16 from 9-10 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 10 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Interment: St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery
Jerry Lynn Grigsby September 5, 1950 – December 10, 2017
Interment: Centuries Memorial Cemetery on Mansfield Road in Shreveport
Lee Washington September 20, 1964 – December 10, 2017
Arrangements TBA
Melvin Gene Lemmons, Sr. July 19, 1941 – December 12, 2017
Service: Saturday, Dec. 16 at 3 pm at Memory Lawn Cemetery in Natchitoches
‘Tis the season to be grateful, and the Natchitoches Young Professionals are most grateful for the awesome members that contributed to the inaugural suit drive. Because of the outpouring of generosity, NYP members delivered dozens of suits and other professional clothing to the College of Business and Technology at NSU. The faculty and staff at NSU were very excited to see all the donations.
Kiwanians gathered at Dickey’s with flare, bringing garlands and glitter and ugly sweaters to wear. They ate a good meal, peach pie a la mode, and played a fun game as they stayed out of the cold. The ugliest sweater won, a cozy fireplace mantle. Second place was a tree, third an “ugly” sports joke. As the night wore on, the crowd dwindled, but they all enjoyed the fellowship and Christmas spirit that was kindled.
The Natchitoches Parish Library’s (NPL) annual “Can Your Fines” event takes place each year as an opportunity to help patrons while they help others in the community as well. Over the course of November, the NPL collected canned goods and in return offered fine forgiveness to patrons for overdue books and other items. Half of the canned food was distributed to the Natchitoches Fire Department for their annual food drive. The NPL also contributed half of the collected goods to Cane River Food Pantry.
Statement from District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington
Mitchell Bayonne, III sentencing
Today, Mitchell Bayonne, III, age 37, pleaded guilty to possession of schedule II, cocaine, with the intent to distribute and possession of schedule II, methamphetamine, with the intent to distribute. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison by District Judge LaLa Sylvester. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney J. Chris Guillet. Members of the Natchitoches Multi Jurisdictional Drug task Force made the initial arrest in this case.
O’Shay Hicks sentencing
O’Shay Hicks was sentenced today for a total of 60 years in prison for forcible rape and 2nd degree kidnapping. He was sentenced by Judge Lala Sylvester to 30 years for forcible rape, 15 years each for two counts of 2nd degree kidnapping. All three sentences were ordered to be served consecutively. Today’s sentencing is the result of Hicks pleading guilty to all three counts prior to his scheduled trial in October. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney J. Chris Guillet.
