BOM is a sponsor of the Annual Greenwing Day this Saturday, May 18 at the Natchitoches Shooting Range. In the photo is Moriah Sumner, Hillary Gray, and Luke Lucky.

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) was awarded an ‘A’ from The Leapfrog Group’s spring 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. The designation recognizes NRMC’s efforts in protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care. The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization committed to improving health care quality and safety for consumers and purchasers. The Safety Grade assigns an ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘D’ or ‘F’ grade to hospitals across the country based on their performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections and other harms to patients in their care.

“Congratulations to all associates and physicians on this outstanding achievement,” explained Kirk Soileau, Chief Executive Officer of NRMC. “Throughout the hospital, we constantly measure every aspect of patient safety. By doing so, we are able to identify weaknesses and quickly make improvements. Our goal is always to do zero harm. This translates into better clinical outcomes and patient experiences. We’re now performing at or above national benchmarks in patient safety as this ‘A’ score from the Leapfrog Group demonstrates. I want to take this opportunity to thank our associates, board, and physicians for their outstanding commitment to patient safety.”

Over the past five years, NRMC Associates have created a Culture of Safety focusing on a number of key initiatives, such as fall prevention, handwashing protocols for patients and visitors, prevention of catheter- associated urinary tract infections, identification and treatment of sepsis in its earliest stages, and prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia to name just a few. The team’s commitment has resulted in a low rate of hospital acquired conditions and infections.

“To be recognized nationally as an ‘A’ hospital is an accomplishment the whole community should take pride in,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “Hospitals that earn an ‘A’ grade are making it a priority to protect patients from preventable medical harm and error. We congratulate hospital leaders, board members, staff, volunteers and clinicians who work so hard to earn this A.”

Developed under the guidance of a national Expert Panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses 28 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.

NRMC was awarded an ‘A’ grade today, when Leapfrog announced grades for the spring 2019 update. To see NRMC’s full grade details, and to access patient tips for staying safe in the hospital, visithospitalsafetygrade.org and follow The Leapfrog Group on Twitter and Facebook.

About The Leapfrog Group

Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey collects and transparently reports hospital performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, Leapfrog’s other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents and infections.

About Natchitoches Regional Medical Center

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center began as a community hospital in 1955 and has grown into a 216-bed healthcare system with 750 Associates and more than 100 active and consulting physicians on its medical staff. The system is comprised of the 96-bed acute care facility, a skilled nursing home, assisted living complex, and an extensive network of clinics throughout the parish. NRMC is an affiliate of Christus Health.

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Debra Kay Pardee
January 03, 1957 – May 15, 2019
Service: Saturday, May 18 at 11 am at Creston Baptist Church in Creston

Beatrice Odoms
November 16, 1942 – May 10, 2019
Arrangements TBA

RAPIDES PARISH:

Jeannette Brazzel
Service: Friday, May 17 at 11 am at Alexandria Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Eugene “Tiny” Vercher
April 12, 1931 – May 13, 2019
Service: Friday, May 17 at 10 am at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Colfax

RED RIVER PARISH:

Alma S. Johnson
June 21, 1952 – May 13, 2019
Service: Saturday, May 18 at 2 pm at Mackey Masonic Lodge in Ringgold
Friday, March 22 at 6 pm at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Chapel

The Church Street Inn received the award for Top Rated Specialty Lodging for the third year in a row for the city of Natchitoches.

This small boutique hotel, the first of its kind in Natchitoches, is considered the ultimate choice for lodging when staying in the downtown historic district. The inn is within easy walking distance of fine dining, shopping, museums, Northwestern State University and Natchitoches’ beautiful Cane River.

The staff aims to please, making you feel at home, all the while ensuring comfort and relaxation.

Congratulations on being a prime example of the type of southern hospitality that Natchitoches has to offer its visitors.

Sheriff Victor Jones announced that Alaysia Smith of Natchitoches Central High School has been named the recipient of an academic scholarship from the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program with an award of $500 for the 2018-19 school year. Alaysia plans to attend Northwestern State University with an anticipated major field of study in Nursing. Her parents are Randoll Lewis Smith, Jr. and Tideshean Litisha Dorsey Walter of Natchitoches.

Samuel Bryce Phillips of St. Mary’s High School is the First Alternate of the Louisiana Sheriff’s Scholarship Program. Anita will receive an academic scholarship with a maximum of $500 awarded by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office. Samuel plans to attend Northwestern State University with an anticipated major field of study in Radiologic Sciences. Samuel’s parents are Jason Dale and Rebecca Hernandez Phillips of Natchitoches.

Stephani Bradley of Lakeview High School is the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program Second Alternate. Stephani will receive an academic scholarship with a maximum of $500 awarded by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office. Stephani plans to attend Northwestern State University with an anticipated major field of study in Nursing and Fine Arts. Her parents are Phillip Bradley and Wanda Bradley of Campti.

The Sheriff’s Scholarship is made possible by the Louisiana Sheriff’s Honorary Membership Program. Louisiana Sheriffs provide scholarships to graduating high school students from each parish where the Sheriff is an affiliate of the Program. Qualities such as academic achievement, leadership and character are considered in making selections of for the scholarship. The only limitations are that applicants be permanent residents of Louisiana, scholarships be utilized in higher education within the State and students be enrolled as full-time, undergraduate students. Scholarships will be awarded in sixty-three parishes throughout the state.

In closing Sheriff Jones said, “Academic awards by the Louisiana Sheriffs’ Scholarship Program to Louisiana students demonstrate what the LSHMP is all about. This is one of our finest accomplishments. It invests in Louisiana’s future and gives something back to our community. This would not be possible without the kind and generous support of Natchitoches Parish’s Honorary Members.”

Sheriff Jones and the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office congratulates all graduates of the Class of 2019.

The City of Natchitoches would like to advise the public Woodyard Drive between Quida Street and Abbie Drive is closed to all traffic effective immediately to repair a sewer line in the area.

This section of Woodyard Drive will be closed until further notice.

For questions relative to this closure, please call the Mayor’s office at (318) 352-2772.

By Kris James

Happy Wednesday Stylers! Summer is just around the corner and after the grey gloomy winter we can agree it’s time to book those trips to that dream location you’ve been eyeing. But in truth, a vacation is just another reason to experiment with our summer aesthetic. Silky fabrics, breezy flowing blouses, and hats are perfect pieces for any temperature. Of course, swimwear and shorts are a must, but what about the items that will have you Instagram ready? Idk about you but I’m excited about taking a vacation. It’s a time for you to relax and chill out, so let’s not stress about our fashion. Keeping it fresh and effortless is always a great way to start.

If you’re like me, packing can be tricky. I’m so last minute. But I’ve learned the best way to start is to plan it out. Most of the time I use my destination for inspiration when shopping. I love to create looks that tell stories. When you’re traveling to different places you become a part of each trip’s story. Keep in mind that you want to pack for comfort with lightweight clothing because we all know bringing extra bags can get pricey. I have one cousin who loves to pack four or five bags when we travel, but always has to go shopping because she has nothing to wear.

Plan your details out from start to finish: what you’re wearing each day, what accessories you need to pack and my favorite what shoes you can take. Of course, you might want to pack all your shoes but you can’t. My tip is to pick two or three different styles of shoes that you know will complete all your looks. At the least, have two neutrals and one fun pair. One more thing to remember is that your traveling outfit is just as important as your vacation pieces. Nothing screams “I hate my life” more than getting caught in a gas station or the airport in your pajamas. Never assume that you will never see anyone because someone is always watching. Make a stylish impression everywhere you go. For travel, I think oversized items are the ultimate go-to. Any kind of knit is comfy and soft and great for packing.

The other night while online looking for my favorite items I ran into this long cardigan dress and I knew my stylers would love it. It’s so casual and yet, so chic. It reminds me of something I saw from a Chanel runway show. I didn’t forget about my male Stylers either. The short sleeve printed button down is my favorite. It gives me a Miami Vice vibe. Putting together two items for this article quickly turned into twenty, but I had to decide on nine summer essentials.

Not all trips end on beaches, some are in the woods glamping, some are in the city sightseeing, and some are in the desert stargazing. Whatever your dream spot is, I hope you realize one of my items is the missing link to your vacation wardrobe.

With Northwestern State co-head coaches Jess and Anna Jobe in their second seasons, the Lady Demons’ 2019 schedule has kicked it up a notch in competitiveness.

What hasn’t changed is NSU’s home cooking as the Lady Demons play 10 home games including its exhibition in the friendly confines of the Lady Demon Soccer Complex.

The Jobes released their 2019 schedule Tuesday with 10 home games for the second straight season, the most since 2010.

After a home exhibition against Little Rock on Aug. 17, NSU spends the rest of the month on the road with trips to North Texas (Aug. 22), Baylor (Aug. 25) and Grambling (Aug. 30) to start the regular season.

The Lady Demons put a Power 5 member (Baylor) back on the schedule after not playing one in 2018.

“We have more experience in terms of returners in our second year,” said Jess Jobe, who guided NSU to the Southland Conference Tournament in his first year, the second time NSU has made a postseason since 2008. “This was an intentional schedule to challenge us week in and week out because we know what we’ll face in conference play.

“We wanted a non-conference schedule to prepare us for the challenges we’ll see at home and on the road. Mentally, it’ll be great preparation because we’ll have to work for every result and grind out every weekend.”

NSU might have half of its roster (14) as newcomers this coming season, but five upperclassmen have loads of experience along with a bevy of rising sophomores who saw plenty of action in their first season in a 10-10 campaign.

The Lady Demons have their first regular season home game Sept. 1 against Louisiana Tech before hitting the road again at ULM (Sept. 6) and Jackson State (Sept. 8).

NSU closes its non-conference slate with home games against talented Sun Belt Conference foes Texas State (Sept. 13) and UL-Lafayette (Sept. 15).

“There are some good local rivalries on this schedule, ones we feel are very competitive,” Jobe said. “We’ll learn a lot about this team from the early schedule, and we’re excited to play some top competition.

“If we want to be elite and be one of the best teams in the Southland Conference and otherwise, then we have to face some of the best. We’ll learn and grow from it, and this schedule also gives a lot of our Texas natives a chance to play close to home.”

After finishing eighth in the SLC and earning a tournament berth, NSU plays six of its 11 conference matches at home this season.

The Lady Demons open on the road at Stephen F. Austin (Sept. 20) before opening its home swath the following weekend against Lamar (Sept. 27) and McNeese (Sept. 29).

NSU begins October with trips to Abilene Christian (Oct. 4) and Incarnate Word (Oct. 6).

The longest home stand of the season comes next with visits from Sam Houston State (Oct. 11), Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (Oct. 18) and Houston Baptist (Oct. 20).

“We had a couple of important away wins last year,” Jobe said. “The road is a tough environment, so being at home for an extra conference game this season is a huge advantage.

“Not just physically but mentally — we’re hoping that it pays off. We got a taste of SLC play last season, and every game, every point matters. We’re definitely excited, and we hope to translate that home advantage into bettering positioning and a return trip to the conference tournament.”

NSU wraps up its road conference slate at Nicholls (Oct. 25) and at Southeastern (Oct. 27).

The Lady Demons finish its regular season with its customary match against Central Arkansas, this year at home.

NSU will attempt to punch its ticket to the eight-team SLC Tournament, which takes place Nov. 6-8 at Central Arkansas.

Photo Credit: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services

The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) honored the graduating Class of 2019 at the school’s annual Senior Banquet, held Sunday, May 5, 2019

Students dressed to impress and enjoyed specialty cuisines as they shared memories of their time at LSMSA. The LSMSA Parents’ Council hosted the event through the generous donations of parents and grandparents.

“The Senior Banquet tradition began in 2015 as a way for the Parents’ Council to honor LSMSA graduates with an upscale dining experience,” said LSMSA Foundation Executive Director Angela Robinson (’93). “For the first two years, the banquet was held in the LSMSA dining hall.

“In 2017, the Parents’ Council decided to move the event off campus to make it a more memorable evening for the seniors.”

Over the course of the evening, the students were addressed by Robinson, LSMSA Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton, Lecturer of Biology Dr. Jason Anderson and Senior Class President Rachel Judson.

“I want you to all think back to the person you were the day you got here,” said Judson, in her address to her fellow senior classmates. “Your maturity level, your opinions and the music you listened to. Think about how much you’ve seen and experienced since then. You’ve learned more than you thought you could, made the lifelong friends you heard the alumni talk about, and grown as a person in the process.

“Right now, I’m feeling torn like we all are. One part of me wants the diploma to be in my hand, and the other wants there to be more time. But now, it’s time for us to go out into the real world and let our time at LSMSA guide us through the next chapter of our lives. It’s time to move on and be the people we’re meant to be.”

Following Judson and Anderson’s address, the group enjoyed their dinner before being recognized and honored by Chief of Staff and Senior Class Sponsor John Allen (’98).

Seventy-five seniors received the coveted Acorn Pin that commemorates a student being enrolled at LSMSA for three years.

Summer isn’t quite here yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get ready for the Natchitoches Parish Library’s (NPL) annual Summer Reading Program (SRP)!

This year, in celebration of the NPL’s 80th birthday, patrons may pre-register for their age group’s SRP Tuesday, May 28 through Saturday, June 8. Everyone who pre-registers during that week will receive an 80th anniversary promotional item and an entry to win one of three Amazon Fire tablets, provided by the Friends of the Natchitoches Parish Library. There will be a drawing for each age group of the SRP: children, teens, and adults!

Those who attend the SRP Kick-off Party and 80th Anniversary Celebration on May 30 will enjoy a day full of fun and games for all ages. There will be an adult play day from 10-11AM, a water gun war for kids ages 6-11, from 11-11:30AM, and from 2-5:30PM there will be cake and face painting as the NPL celebrates 80 years of service. There will be a variety of board games and groups playing throughout the library from 1-5PM, with something for everyone. Also from 1-5PM, patrons 8 and up can try out virtual reality on the VR truck in the NPL parking lot!

The theme this year, “A Universe of Stories,” will feature programming and prizes related to space, science, and technology. Participants can read for six weekly prizes and entries for the grand prize drawing from June 3 through August 10.

Children’s performances will again take place at both the NPL Main Branch and the Northeast Branch (NEB) in Campti, and will include a magician, science story tellers, and even wildlife education (with real animals).

Teen programming will include: a visit from a VR game truck, DIY spacecraft, messy science: slime, and Sci-Fi filking, just to name a few.

The Natchitoches Historic Foundation held its annual Membership Gala on May 14. The garden behind the NHF’s headquarters (the Cunningham Law Office) was decorated with clocks of every shape and size because, It’s Time to Join NHF!

“I’m thankful to live in a community of like minded people who understand the importance of remembering and preserving our past,” said outgoing resident Cathy Seymour. The NHF has partnered with the City, the Tourist Office, Main Street, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission (NHDDC), the Historic District Business Association (HDBA), the St. Augustine Historic Society, the American Cemetery Association, and the Cane River National Heritage Area.

“We look forward to continuing those relationships throughout the coming year and advancing the cause of preservation and increasing the economic impact tourism and preservation have on our community,” said Seymour.

An exciting announcement was made that the coffee table books the NHF compiled, titled “Christmas Along the Cane,” should be ready for sale by Sept. 1. This books features historic homes along the Cane River dressed up in their Christmas best.

Sheena Simmons was presented with the Robert Knipmeyer Award for Historic Preservation, which is awarded to a person who has made a significant contribution to historic preservation and interpretation including original research and documentation.

Jeff Gary received the Outstanding Board Member Award. Sue Breelove was given a special award for her years of work on the board.

Vicki Parrish was presented with the Bobby Deblieux Historic Preservationist Award, which is awarded to a person who, over time, has demonstrated exceptional leadership, perseverance, achievement and cooperation in support of historic preservation in Natchitoches Parish.

Seymour also recognized VP of Property Susan Barron, VP of Communication Hillary Bennett, VP of Projects Terri Cunningham, Treasurer Kathy Bundrick, and Secretary Kelly Lankford. Then Bennett surprised Seymour with a special gift of appreciation for her hard work as NHF president for the past three years.

Dan Seymour installed the following 2019-2020 Officers: Terri Cunningham, President; Susan Barron, VP of Property; Hillary Bennett, VP of Communication; Jacque Horton, VP of Projects; Kathy Bundrick, Treasurer; and Kelly Lankford, Secretary.

Natchitoches Junior High School JAG students were afforded the opportunity to Job Shadow Principal Sandy Irchirl at L.P. Vaughn on April 25-26. “A day in the Life of Principal Irchirl” was an eye opening experience for the members. Talk about an appreciation for our teachers and principals; the students acquired a valuable lesson!

Pictured above from left are Emaudia Watkins, Taylor Toussaint, Principal Sandy Irchirl, Destiny Phillips, and Aaliyah Edwards. Not pictured are Lauren Sykes, Malorie Roberson, Aamaya Charles, and Dreameshia Hendricks.

Steve Gruesbeck, NSU Psychology Department, spoke to Rotary Club of Natchitoches at its meeting on May 14 about Northwestern State University’s Teacher Preparation and Student Achievement initiatives in the College of Education and Human Development.  

Six local high school students competed in the Annual Natchitoches Rotary Club Essay Scholarship Contest with the theme of The Rotary Four Way Test:
1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The essay must be original and reflect the contestant’s research, views, and personal interpretation of the Four Way Test.

Rotarian Dr. Ron McBride, Coordinator of the Annual Natchitoches Rotary Club Essay Scholarship Contest is pictured with five of the six contestants who submitted and presented their essays to the Rotarians at the May 14 meeting. The Rotarians evaluated each essay, and the top three winners of the Rotary Essay Scholarship Contest will be awarded a scholarship:
First place- $1,500
Second place- $1,000
Third place- $500

Pictured from left are McBride, Joan Sporer, LSMSA; Jon Tucker Henderson, NCHS; Jazzare’ Burrell, NCHS, Sara DeMattie, NCHS; William Fralia, NCHS; not pictured Sara DeMattie, NCHS.

The Northwestern State Demons basketball program has added two international prospects to its 2019-20 roster, 6-9 Greek forward Robert Chougkaz and 6-5 Israeli swingman Jovan Zelenbaba.

Mike McConathy, preparing for his 21st season as NSU’s head coach, announced the signees Tuesday.

The Demons began their 2019 recruiting class last month with a pair of junior college players, 6-7 forward Jamaure Gregg of Cochise (Ariz.) College and 6-2 sharpshooter Jairus Roberson from Trinity Valley (Texas) Community College.

“We had unique opportunities to connect with Robert and Jovan because of some deep-rooted relationships our coaching staff has, and as we evaluated these young men it became obvious that both were very good fits for the NSU basketball program,” said McConathy.

Despite playing basketball for only the past five years, Chougkaz (6-9, 200), a native of Athens and student at Papacharalampio Private School, was one of 20 Greeks selected for the 18 and under Junior National Team. While playing for his junior club team, Peristeri BC, he had a 43-point game including four 3-pointers.

“Robert brings a unique skill set and background to Demon basketball as he has rapidly developed into one the most impressive forwards in the country of Greece,” said McConathy. “After only playing competitively for a few years he has risen to elite status, working regularly with the under 18 national team in Greece. He adds depth to our front court with his 6-9 frame, length, footwork, acumen, and offensive skills. Robert has a tremendous feel for reading defenses, has outstanding footwork in the post and can stretch defenses with his soft touch from the perimeter.”

Also a competitor in soccer, swimming and tae kwon do, Chougkaz is the son of two former professional basketball players. His father, Chris, is a pro coach in the Czech Republic. His mother, Soultana, played 23 professional seasons.

“He’s got the game in his genes and it’s beginning to show. Robert has played on a variety of club teams and national teams giving him experience versus diverse talent levels,” said McConathy. “He is eager, hungry and passionate to learn, and although it may take some time, we expect him to adapt well to NCAA Division I basketball. He fits in well with our fast-paced style of play and he will thrive in our concepts of sprint, space and share.”

Zelenbaba (6-5, 190) will enter NSU as a 22-year-old freshman who has served two years of compulsory service in the Israeli military. The native of Kfar Blun, Israel played last season at Combine Academy in Charlotte, North Carolina, averaging 14 points, seven rebounds and four assists and shooting 41 percent on 3-pointers and 54 percent overall.

“Our program has gotten better today by adding Jovan to our team,” said McConathy. “He brings shooting, toughness, and a skill set to our program that we were trying to pick up in this recruiting class. Having served in the military and attending Combine Academy, his age and experiences will add maturity to our group.”

His perimeter scoring helped Combine to knock off the nation’s No. 7-ranked high school team, IMG Academy this past season.

“Jovan is a very unselfish and a team player,” said McConathy. “He has the ability to make 3-point shots, which addresses a need in our program. He is very athletic with good size. He runs the floor very well and his strength allows him to finish plays in the paint.

“One of his best attributes is his ability to pass the ball. His skill set and size allow him to rebound and start our fast break opportunities. Defensively, he can guard multiple positions on the court because of his size, athleticism, and strength.”

During his 16 seasons as head coach at Bossier Parish Community College, McConathy coached the new Demon’s father, Andre Zelenbaba, in 1991-92. The senior Zelenbaba finished his college career at New Orleans and played professionally overseas.

“Jovan is a very driven individual with high character and a huge passion for the game, just like his dad,” said McConathy. “He comes very well-prepared to be successful in our program both on and off the court. We look forward to helping him achieve his team and personal goals at the NCAA Division 1 level. His passion and work ethic will add to the ‘finish strong’ culture of our program.”

McConathy said the Demons anticipate adding to their signing class soon.

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Shirley Martin Ellzey
June 02, 1923 – May 12, 2019
Service: Wednesday, May 15 at 10 am in the chapel of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches
Interment: Coldwater Baptist Cemetery in Hagewood

SABINE PARISH:

CoDan DeWayne Meshell
May 7, 1988 – May 11, 2019
Service: Wednesday, May 15 at 2 pm at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church (Toro Community)
Interment: Pleasant Hill Baptist Cemetery

WINN PARISH:

Charles Albert LeBaron
February 23, 1945 – May 11, 2019
Visitation: Wednesday, May 15 from 9-10 am at the Atlanta Baptist Church
Service: Wednesday, May 15 at 10 am in the Atlanta Baptist Church
Interment: Atlanta Cemetery with military honors

Mona Collins Jones
November 12, 1937 – May 11, 2019
Visitation: Wednesday, May 15 from 9-10 am at Calvary Baptist Church, located at 2888 Hwy. 84 in Winnfield
Service: Wednesday, May 15 at 10 am at Calvary Baptist Church

By Ricky LaCour

Good educators are the backbone of the education system. There are those who excel at what they set out to accomplish for their students, their school, and their district. The Natchitoches Parish School Board honored principals, teachers and support staff of the year at its board meeting on May 13.

Principal of the Year for the district was awarded to Ben Lagrone.

The list of teachers awarded Teacher of the Year include:

For elementary: Sharonnica Garrison, Catherine Johnson, Claudine Madison, Joy Rowell, Brenda Roberts, Codie Goings, Lawanda Smith, Debra Wamber, Eboni Roberson and Mellissa Kaufman.

For middle school: Shanita Grayson, Shelli Adams, Robert Carnline, Britani Fields and Alexandria Crowell.

For high school: Glenn Sawyer, Kathy Canerday and Michael Selby.

For the district, Teacher of the Year recipients are Catherine Johnson for elementary, Shelli Adams for middle school and Kathy Canerday for high school.

Support Persons of the Year was awarded to Henry Butler (East), Leigh Lofton (Fairview), Linda Spikes (NPTCC), Michelle Canerday (Goldonna), Michelle Winslow (Lakeview), Jodi Kilgore (Marthaville), Nathaniel Helaire (Magnet), Shelia Helaire (NJH), Tonia Young (Provencal), Jeremiah Johnson (LPV), Jerry Sheppard (LPV), Charmaine Williams (Weaver), Katinka White, and Rufus Sowell (Safety Support).

“To those honored here. . . . .This is an achievement that no one can ever take away from you the rest of your life,” said Ben Lagrone. “And we shouldn’t lose perspective about that. Congratulations!”

Also covered in the meeting was the consideration of approval of Alliance Compressor tax exemption request. This would exclude the company for paying approximately $58,000 per year over the next 10 years.

“This will give us the opportunity to expand our business and keep jobs here in Natchitoches in the community,” a representative from the company mentioned.

After extended explanations and comments from members of the board, Alliance representatives and attendees, the motion to approve the request was passed with a vote of five yes, one no and one abstain.

Another major discussion point of the meeting was the consideration of transferring Cloutierville BRE funds to Provencal for the building of four new classrooms to accommodate the growing population of students since the closure of Cloutierville Elementary/Jr. High School.

Board member Emile Metoyer advocated that the funds should be used toward the update/reconstruction of the Cloutierville school, which would take an estimated $2.7 million.

“There is approximately $650,000 in that BRE that could go towards updating Cloutierville for it to be reopened,” said Metoyer. “I don’t see the point in giving all that money to Provencal, and we don’t even know what the construction is really gonna cost.”

“It’s a shame that some schools have to close, but this money is still being spent in a way that benefits the students that came from Cloutierville,” said Broadway.

In an attempt to come to an understanding, Palmer spoke to Metoyer saying, “We want to work with you to reopen the school, but right now, this is where the money is needed more.”

Once put to a vote, the motion was passed to transfer $450,000 for the new classrooms at Provencal Elementary Jr. High School.

Mayor Lee Posey presented the N.S.U. Middle Lab School Orchestra and Director Katrice LaCour with a plaque congratulating them on their outstanding performance at Carnegie Hall. Students and family members filled the Arts Center at the City Council meeting Monday night, May 13.

Monday, March 26 was a historic day for the orchestra, which under Director Katrice LaCour, was one of six groups to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

This historic journey began slightly over a year ago after receiving an invitation from Manhattan Concert Productions. The first Booster Club meeting was held March 1, 2018, and a fundraiser committee was formed to raise money to offset the cost of the trip.

The Orchestra Booster Club organized several bake sales, its first golf tournament, two hamburger sales (Cane River Charities), Martha Dowden’s Famous Pound Cake sale, and performed for Governor John Bel Edwards and the First Lady at their first orchestra banquet. More than $75,000 was generated through fundraising and private donations throughout the year.

The invitation to play at Carnegie Hall came after the Orchestra won gold at the Festival Disney Competition in Orlando, Fla. on March 31 – April 1 of 2018. They were the only middle school orchestra attending the competition, so they were moved up to the High School orchestra division.

In other business, the Council approved a resolution stating its support for the placement of a temporary bridge at Touline Street (SEE DOCUMENTS BELOW) to handle traffic during the construction of the new Church Street Bridge, and further authorizing and directing the Mayor to communicate its support and preference to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.

PLANNING & ZONING – INTRODUCTION:

Amend Ordinance No. 64 Of 2001 Changing Zoning Classification Of Property Described As Follows: Lot At Southeast Intersection Of Texas Street Having Front Of 100 Feet On Texas Street By Depth Of 172.5 Feet On 5th Street from B-2 Neighborhood Business District to B-3 Community & Central Business District to operate an automobile repair business. (421 Texas St.)

ORDINANCES – FINAL:

Adopt Millage Rate For The Tax Year 2019
Authorize The Mayor To Award The Bid For The City Council Chambers Renovation Project (Bid No. 0611)
Adopt The Budget For The City Of Natchitoches For The Fiscal Year June 1, 2019 Through May 31, 2020
Authorize The Mayor To Execute A Lease In Favor Of Med-Trans Corporation, Of A Portion Of Lot 1a Of The Natchitoches Regional Airport As Shown On The Airport Layout Plan Of April 27, 2001, By Alliance Incorporated And Further Providing For Advertising Of The Lease And An Effective Date
Approve A Conveyance Of A 4.774 Acre Tract Of Land In Section 74, Township 9 North, Range 7 West, To Archie’s Towing Service, L.L.C., For The Sum And Price Of $260,000

ORDINANCES – INTRODUCTION:

Amend The 2018-2019 Budget To Reflect Additional Revenues And Expenditures

RESOLUTIONS:

Authorize The Mayor To Execute Change Order No. 3 To The Contract Between The City Of Natchitoches And Womack And Sons Construction Group, Inc., For The Master Lift Station Replacement, FY 2016 Louisiana Community Development Block Grant (LCDBG) Sewer Rehabilitation (Bid No. 0596)

Authorize The Mayor To Execute A Certificate Of Substantial Completion To The Contract Between The City Of Natchitoches And Womack And Sons Construction Group For The Master Lift Station Replacement, FY 2016 Louisiana Community Development Block Grant (LCDBG) Sewer Rehabilitation

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The offices of the City of Natchitoches will be closed on Monday, May 27, 2019 for Memorial Day.

The regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for Monday, May 27, 2019 has been re-scheduled to Tuesday, May 28, 2019 due to Memorial Day.

This summer the School of Biological and Physical Sciences will be holding its 1st Destination Science Camp. The camp is intended to be an immersive experience that will provide workshops in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, physics, genetics, and natural science and will be held June 24–28 on Northwestern State University Campus.

“Our goal is to get 5th – 8th grade students [even 9th grade students or older] in front of neat technology and experimentation so they can see the vast opportunities that careers in science fields can offer. Our hope is that we can show them how much fun studying these disciplines can be,” said Dr. Christopher Lyles, assistant professor of biology and camp coordinator. “The camp will have some formal instruction, laboratory time, and structured activities, but at the end of the day attendees will unwind by competing in quiz bowls, playing board games, eating snacks, and watching movies. We want the kids to have a blast….literally we want to blow some stuff up!”

The camp is intended for children 10-14 years of age, but older kids are also welcome too (not recommended for students who have not completed the 4th grade). If your child is 9 heading into 5th grade they would be eligible to attend. The cost is $125 per attendee. Registration includes lab coat and safety googles. Campers must bring their own lunch, but the camp will provide an afternoon snack. Attendees can be dropped off starting at 8:30 am in the lobby of Bienvenu Hall and picked up in Rm 211 between 5–5:30 pm in Bienvenu Hall. Online registration is available at: Sciences.nsula.edu for more information or to request a camp registration packet email Dr. Christopher Lyles at lylesc@nsula.edu.

Northwestern State University alumna Denise Lewis Patrick was honored as one of the 2019 Louisiana Public Broadcasting Louisiana Legends during a gala on May 9. Patrick, a 1977 graduate of Northwestern State University, is an author, editor and teacher and a 2014 inductee into the Long Purple Line, NSU’s Alumni Hall of Distinction.

The Louisiana Legends Awards Gala and Auction is an annual event hosted by Friends of Louisiana Public Broadcasting and by Gov. and First Lady Jon Bel Edwards serving as honorary co-chairs. The event honors the best and brightest of Louisiana’s sons and daughters who have distinguished themselves in a variety of disciplines and have brought honor to the state.

Begun in 1990 and now in its 29th year, the Louisiana Legends Gala is a fundraising and public awareness project that draws support and participation from Friends across the state who appreciate the many fine instructional, educational and cultural programs LPB provides.

LPB’s Louisiana Legends series highlights outstanding Louisianans who have distinguished themselves in a variety of disciplines including writing, art, entertainment, politics, public service and athletics. Featuring insightful biographical videos and in-depth interviews with host Beth Courtney, these shows provide intimate glimpses into the lives of the state’s most influential, visionary and successful citizens.

Patrick is a Natchitoches native who earned a degree in journalism at NSU in 1977 and a master’s in creative writing from the University of New Orleans. A long-time resident of the New York City area, she is a freelance writer, editor, instructor and literary consultant who has authored books of poetry, short stories, picture and board books for children, non-fiction biographies, middle grade novels and a young adult novel.

Patrick has written narratives for the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center exhibition, published a review in the New York Times and has written sections for Fodor’s Travel Guides to New York City. She has also worked as an editor for Scholastic, Inc., as well as several other publishing companies and teaches intermediate writing at Nyack College.

After penning two stories for the American Girl Doll series, Patrick was lauded by the African American Academy of Arts and Letters for Children’s Book of the Year, was a runner-up for the Lamplighter Award by the National Christian School Association and had two books listed as Best Books for the Teenager by the New York Public Library. She has served on the advisory board for the Books for Kids Foundation, as a mentor for an afterschool writing club, as a writer’s coach and as an elementary school reading volunteer.

Denise Lewis Patrick, right, was recognized as one a 2019 Louisiana Public Broadcasting Louisiana Legends gala May 9. From left are her brother Kevin M. Lewis, mother Edwina Lewis and Lewis Patrick. All three are NSU alumni.

For years, the Northwestern State baseball team was accustomed to playing UL Monroe three times a season.

That often was the plan when the teams shared a home in the Southland Conference. Since the Warhawks left the SLC for the Sun Belt Conference after the 2005-06 academic year.

When the Demons (29-21) head to Warhawk Field for Tuesdays 6 p.m. matchup with ULM (23-27), it will mark the third meeting of the season between the former conference foes. Streaming audio of the game will be available on http://www.NSUDemons.com.

It also stands as the first time the teams will meet three times in a season since 2013, and it is the second straight season in which Northwestern State will face the same opponent in three mid-week games.

A season ago, the Demons played Lamar three times, taking two of those games. So far in 2019, Northwestern State and ULM have split their meetings with each winning on its home field. NSU took a 15-0 win on Feb. 26 in Natchitoches before the Warhawks squared the season series with an 8-4 in Monroe on April 10.

“With coach (Michael) Fed(erico) being there, he works with us to get these done,” third-year head coach Bobby Barbier said. “Mid-week games, where we’re located, can be tough sometimes, and they’re a good opponent. They’ve improved as the year has gone on.”

Northwestern State will send senior left-hander Tyler Pigott (5-1, 2.95) to face ULM left-hander Cole Martin (0-4, 6.94) as both teams wrap up their mid-week schedules before key conference series across the weekend.

“We’ll probably have some guys get opportunities on the mound,” Barbier said. “We need to be locked and loaded for this weekend. So we’ll have some guys get some opportunities who haven’t had them in a while. It’s an opportunity for them to show us that, going forward, they can help us get some outs.”

Whoever toes the rubber for the Demons will face a ULM lineup that hits at a .266 clip for the season and features four regulars hitting above .300, led by Andrew Beesley’s .346 average.

In the two games against the Warhawks, the Demons’ pitching staff has found some success, limiting ULM to a .258 average. In the teams’ first meeting of the season, four Demons pitchers scattered seven hits in a 15-0 NSU victory.

Martin started that game and took the loss, lasting 3 2-3 innings, allowing six runs (three earned) and eight hits.

ULM is a much different team in Barbier’s eyes than they were even a month ago, but the offense remains the same.

“They have a bunch of left-handed hitters, which is tough on a right-handed dominant staff like ours,” Barbier said. “It will be a good test for us.”

Although the Demons dropped both games of Sunday’s doubleheader to Incarnate Word, there were positives to take from the weekend, mainly from the NSU offense.

The Demons swatted six home runs and batted .324 against the Cardinals, averaging seven runs per game. The six home runs were the most in a home series for the Demons since drilling nine in a two-game set against Mississippi Valley State on April 24-25, 2018.

“It will be good to go out there and keep swinging the bats,” Barbier said. “I thought we swung the bats this weekend as well as we have all year. It will be good to take that into the weekend against Sam Houston State.”

Photo Credit: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services