TITLE: Health Information Management Technician (IT Staff)

This position will join our existing IT manager with primary duties to be a subject matter expert providing many routine clinic management REPORTS and staff TRAINING & TROUBLESHOOTING on our electronic medical records system and other business systems. Besides that, this position will also provide IT support as a backup to the IT Manager and to assist in priority IT projected assigned by an executive officer. Other related technical duties as assigned.

SALARY based on level of job-related experience and related qualifications.

EXEMPT position that serves on emergency team.  For a full set of responsibilities and qualifications contact the OMC executive office at 318-357-2071 or email info@outpatientmedical.org.

EOE

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By Tommy Rush

These are strange times! Northwestern State begins their football season in two weeks on February 20 and the Super Bowl will be played this coming Sunday. For avid football fans, which probably is 80% of people in the South, it’s a dream come true. We can watch football until football starts again!

Pastors often jokingly say that our church members know more about football than they know about church. You may not realize football and church use some of the same terms. So let me share with you football fans some terms that will help you understand church. In church, “blocking” means someone who stands and talks in front of the coffee pot. A “draw play” is what children and many adults do on their bulletin during worship. The “end zone” is the back pews that people fight to get into. “Interference” occurs when a baby won’t quit crying during the message. “Offsides” happens when someone sits in the pew that you normally sit in. “Illegal motion” occurs when someone leaves before the worship service is completely over. And the “extra point” happens when the pastor says, “in conclusion” and then keeps on talking!

Of course I’m only joking, but if you’re attending a worship service for the first time it can definitely seem strange. But attending anything for the first time is a strange experience! Attending a football game can be strange for someone who’s attending for the first time. Coach Bud Wilkinson who coached the Oklahoma Sooners from 1947-1963 often said, “Football is where 22 players on the field are desperately in need of rest in front of 60,000 people in the stands desperately in need of exercise!” It has also been said that professional football is really strange. Where else will you find 60,000 screaming fans that each paid $100 to sit in a stadium that costs $45 million to watch players paid $7 million dispute the possession of a bag of air costing $35?

All joking aside, I pray that you and your family will have a “Super Sunday.” It’s my prayer that if you have never attended a worship service or if it has been a long time since you have walked through the doors of a church, I pray you will push through the “strange” feelings and thoughts and worship the God who loves you this weekend. I also pray that wherever you choose to worship, you will find a warm and friendly group of people who welcome you with open arms and smiling faces. And it’s also my prayer that when the worship service is over and you head for home, you will know beyond doubt that you have been with God’s people and you’ve experienced God’s love. Have a Super Sunday!

 

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NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State’s six-game spring football season will look much different for the Demons.

It will do the same for those who want to attend any or all of NSU’s three home games in the spring.

Fans who purchased season tickets ahead of Aug. 31, 2020, will be rewarded with complimentary upgraded VIP parking around Turpin Stadium for the three spring home games or may choose to receive a partial refund.

The Demons’ home slate begins March 6 against Nicholls (6 p.m.) and continues with the Homecoming matchup at 4 p.m. March 20 against McNeese. NSU wraps up its three-game home schedule with a 6 p.m. kickoff April 1 against Sam Houston.

“At long last, NSU football is close,” Assistant Athletic Director for Ticketing Operations and Special Events Mike Jacklich said. “There may be some changes to the way we conduct game day – spring games, electronic tickets, social distancing within the stadium, mask policies – but the action on the field will be the same hard-hitting football fans love.”

Capacity at Turpin Stadium will be limited to 4,000 spectators in accordance with current state COVID-19 protocols.

Those limits extend to the suite levels. There will be approximately 65 tickets available spread across the three suites on the stadium’s third level. Those will be made available on a first-come, first-serve basis for Demons Unlimited Foundation donors with current donor levels taken into account for priority seating.

In addition to fans being required to wear a mask or face covering for entry and being asked to keep them on while in the stadium, except for when eating or drinking, there will be no on-field presentations in the spring, allowing for expanded use of the videoboard in the north end zone. Social distancing measures will be implemented in the seating areas as well.

There will be no traditional tailgating permitted before any of Northwestern State’s three home spring games. RV parking spots remain available and can be purchased by contacting the Northwestern State Athletics ticket office at 318-357-4268.

For full details on gameday policies for Demon games, visit http://www.NSUDemons.com/footballgameday.

The spring also marks the debut of NSU’s partnership with StadiumDrop, which allows Demon fans the ability to purchase concessions items through an app on their phone and have the goods delivered directly to their seat.

Season-ticket packages for the three games at Turpin Stadium are available through the Northwestern State Athletics ticket office. A three-game chairback season ticket is available for $75 — $65 for senior citizens, military and NSU faculty/staff — while a general admission season ticket runs $40.

For more ticket information, visit www.NSUTickets.com or call the NSU ticket office.

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February 11, 1950~ February 1, 2021

Marsha Stevens Bernard Kirkland, age 70, of Natchitoches, Louisiana passed away peacefully into the arms of her Lord on Monday, February 1, 2021.

Her family will receive friends Friday, February 5, from 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm at First United Methodist Church- Crossroads. A service celebrating her life will be held Saturday, February 6 at 2:00 pm at First United Methodist Church- Crossroads, with interment to follow at Fern Park Cemetary. Funeral Viewing is available via Livestream @ https://www.Fumcnla.org , and services will be under Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home’s direction.

Marsha was a strong Christian woman, a nurturing and loving mother, an adoring and doting grandmother, and a beloved and faithful friend. She grew up in Natchitoches and graduated from Northwestern State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Children were her passion and her career. She dedicated the majority of her years as an educator to the Child Development Center at Northwestern State University.

Anyone, as committed to inspiring young children and college students as Marsha, should get a medal when they are alive, and trumpets are playing when they pass. In over thirty years in education, she influenced the lives of many families who were lucky enough to know “Mrs. Marsha “and even sometimes lovingly called “Mrs. Benarsha.” She created lifelong relationships that often lasted far beyond the time in her class. Marsha had a God-given gift for making each child feel loved and appreciated and had that “certain something” when interacting with young children and families.

Marsha was selfless to a fault and completely content behind the scenes. Her hospitality and humor made you feel welcomed and comfortable. She knew how to brighten someone’s day and make them feel loved and appreciated. Like McGuyver in the kitchen, she found creative ways to make household chores fun and loved a good garage sale!

Marsha was immensely proud and devoted to her family and left a legacy of selflessness and service. She learned well from her mother the fine art of being an awesome Mimi and embraced that role wholeheartedly. As a strong woman of faith, Marsha was an active member of the First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed her connection to her Koinonia Women’s group and Alpha Delta Kappa educational sorority.

We are grateful to know such a kind and selfless soul who embraced optimism, creativity, and humor every day. Her influence and sacrifice will be felt for generations.

Marsha is survived by her husband Leon Kirkland, her three daughters: Laurie Richard (Marc) of Colorado Spring, Colorado; Leah Bernard (Carl) of Natchitoches; and Becky Coffey (Steven) of Castor, LA, and the father of her daughters, John Bernard of Natchitoches. Sister Kay Knotts, of Natchitoches, and nephew Jeff Knotts. Also, ten grandchildren: Heather, Amber, Megan, Colby, Andrew, Joshua, Anna, Zachary, Nigel, and Finnly. Ten great-grandchildren: Savannah, Kayelee, Elijah, Nicholas, Hendrix, Brody, A’drick, Kayden, Emma, and Eli. Two stepchildren: Jason and Danaca; and eight step-grandchildren: Mallorye, Kailee, Jason, Christian, Shailyn, Jamison, Bentley, and Kelsey.

Marsha was a devoted daughter and is preceded in death by her parents Dr. Melvin and Ruth Stevens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the:

NSU Foundation for the “Mrs. Marsha “
(Marsha Bernard Kirkland)
Playground Equipment Fund for the
Child Development Center,
535 University Parkway,
Natchitoches, LA 71497

Pall Bearers: Jeff Knotts, Jason Kirkland, Colby Session, Andrew Bernard, Joshua Coffey, Zachary Coffey, and Nigel Richard Honorary Pall Bearers: Hendrix, Christian, Jason, and Brody.

Marsha’s favorite quote:

“A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove… but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.” ~ Forest Witcraft

Marsha is resting in peace, knowing that she was vital in generations of children’s lives.

 

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The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested a local restaurant employee responsible for taking over $12,000 from a customer’s bank account.

On January 28, 2020 around 11:45 a.m., officers with the Natchitoches Police Department were notified by a patron of Cane Rio Café that several unauthorized transactions were on their bank account.  The unauthorized transactions totaled over $12,000 and all occurred during December. 

Robert Walker (W/M, 36 y.o.a. of Natchitoches) was arrested earlierthis week for Felony Theft and was placed in the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center.

If you have any additional information in regards to this investigation please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or Detective William Connell at (318) 238-3911. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.

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The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested three juveniles that are responsible for seven burglaries that took place earlier in the week.

On February 3, 2021 the Natchitoches Police Department received several complaints of vehicle burglaries that took place between the 1000 and 3000 block of University Parkway.  While detectives were investigating the burglaries they were able to track one of the stolen items to a residence in the 500 block of North Street.  After obtaining a search warrant for the residence detectives located multiple items that were taken during the burglaries.

As a result of the investigation three juveniles were arrested for seven counts of Simple Burglary and they were placed in the Ware Youth Center.

Also arrested was Ronsheka Matthews (B/F, 35 y.o.a. of Natchitoches) and Felicia Pattain (B/F, 35 y.o.a. of Natchitoches) for Improper Supervision of a Minor.

The Natchitoches Police Department would like to remind its citizens to please note the brand, model and serial number on all valuable household items and firearms.  The serial numbers can help officers identify your items and get them back to you. 

If you have any additional information in regards to this investigation please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or Detective Rudy Glass at (318) 357-3878. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.

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Dear Parent/Guardian,

Students enrolled in English I, English II, Algebra I, Geometry, or Math Essentials need to come to the school on Monday, February 8, 2021 to complete STAR testing. Testing will begin at 8:00am so please arrive by 7:45am. If you have any questions, contact the school at 318-357-9410.

Thank you,

Bobby Benjamin
NPTCC Principal

Stephanie Sewell
NPTCC Testing Coordinator

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Students and faculty at St. Mary’s Catholic School gathered for Prayer at the Pole on Wednesday morning to pray for our armed forces. Students also raised money to donate to the Wounded Warriors by having a dress down day fundraiser and they wore red, white and blue colors.

The Prayer at the Pole is one of several planned activities this week for Catholic Schools Week. Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week is an annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. Schools usually observe this week though various activities for their students and families. Through these activities, the schools focus on the value that a Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our churches and our communities.

St. Mary’s is a Catholic, co-educational college preparatory school that educates students from preschool through twelfth grade. It is a ministry of the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Church.

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Gov. John Bel Edwards announced today, Feb. 4, that Louisiana is expanding vaccine priority groups to include people ages 65 or older. According to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), this update to the prioritization guidance will go into effect on Monday, Feb. 8. This will add about 250,000 people to the Phase B, Tier 1 group.
Expanding the vaccine eligible age group to include individuals 65 or older is still in accordance with the Phase B, Tier 1 group. This prioritization guidance update does not indicate that Louisiana is moving toward including members of Phase B, Tier 2, which is the next priority group, for vaccination.

To view a current list of Louisiana’s priority groups, visit LDH’s COVID-19 Vaccine Information webpage at https://ldh.la.gov/covidvaccine.

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NATCHITOCHES PARISH- State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies continue investigating the circumstances surrounding a house fire in Natchitoches that claimed the life of a female resident and injured two other occupants.

Around 3:45 a.m. on February 1, the Natchitoches Fire Department responded to a call for a house fire located in the 1500 block of Berry Avenue. Firefighters learned there had been 11 occupants in the home at the time of the fire. At the time of arrival, one occupant was still unaccounted while two others, a 34-year-old male and a 16-year-old boy, had suffered burn injuries. The teenager was treated on scene while the older male was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

Firefighters later located the body of a woman in a bedroom.

While official identification and cause of death are pending an autopsy, the victim is believed to be a 37-year-old resident of the home.

After an assessment of the scene, including witness statements, deputies determined the fire began in a bedroom and was caused by a candle that fell over on a bed when the individual who lit the candle fell asleep.

Deputies learned that the individual woke up to find the bed on fire and made several attempts to put the fire out, and sought help from other occupants to do so, before escaping. It was learned that the victim had gotten separated from a sibling during their escape, and that once discovered, the victim’s father re-entered the home in an attempt to save her, but was driven back out by the smoke.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office would like to remind Louisiana residents never to leave candles unattended and to ensure that any candles in use are kept at least five feet away from combustible materials.

NATCHITOCHES:
Ms. Diane Mitchell
January 29, 2021
Service: Saturday, February 6 at 2 pm at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel

Octavia Addison
February 4, 2021
Arrangements TBA

Patricia Ann Couty
May 08, 1941 – February 01, 2021
Service: Saturday, February 6 at 10:30 am at the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Marsha Stevens Bernard Kirkland
February 11, 1950 – February 01, 2021
Service: Saturday, February 6 at 2 pm at First United Methodist Church- Crossroads

Dennis Lane LaCaze
December 06, 1947 – January 27, 2021
Service: Friday, February 5 at 11:30 am at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Natchez

Robert Davis
February 1, 2021
Arrangements TBA

Ronnie G. Edwards
January 28, 2021
Arrangements TBA

Ryan Brown
December 12, 1990 – January 24, 2021
Arrangements TBA

Marquita Nash
December 21, 1985 – January 25, 2021
Arrangements TBA

Edward West
February 1, 1964 – January 20, 2021
Arrangements TBA

WINN:
Bobby Ray Myers
June 23, 1945 – February 02, 2021
Service: Friday, February 5 at 2 pm at the New Salem Baptist Church

Nancy Ricketts
November 19, 1955 – February 01, 2021
Service: Saturday, February 6 at 1 pm at Southern Funeral Home

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LSU Health Science Center will hold a drive through COVID vaccination clinic for the age group of 70+ in Natchitoches
on Thursday, Feb. 18 from 10 am -2 pm.

The location will be in the parking lot of Ben Johnson Auditorium, 400 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Natchitoches, La 71457.

The second dose is scheduled for Thursday, March 11 from 10 am -2 pm. The first dose vaccination clinic is based on the availability
of vaccine. After the first dose is given, the second is guaranteed for your community.

Below is the registration link for the COVID vaccine, please share.
https://redcap.link/LSU-PUBLIC-VACCINE-SURVEY

Please register before the day of the event.

PRNewswire — Southern Scripts has received a capital commitment of $100 million from Water Street Healthcare Partners to expand its unique pharmacy benefit management (PBM) model that delivers significant savings to U.S. employers and maximizes members’ access to medications.

To learn more about Southern Scripts’ approach to helping employers manage their pharmacy benefit programs, visit CLICK HERE.

Southern Scripts shared that Water Street, a strategic investor focused exclusively on health care, will:

• join Southern Scripts’ existing investors, including founders LeAnn and Steven T. Boyd, to grow the company’s transparent model and pass-through offering;
• invest its industry expertise and resources to expand Southern Scripts’ suite of services, enhance its technology and extend its national footprint;
• ultimately support Southern Scripts with achieving its goal of delivering maximum savings and optimal health outcomes for U.S. employers and their members

“Our partnership with Water Street is the next important step toward fulfilling our mission of being the leading disruptor of the PBM industry,” said LeAnn C. Boyd, PharmD, founding partner and CEO, Southern Scripts. “Water Street deeply values our model centered around clear-cut pricing, no hidden costs, and disclosing and passing through 100 percent of drug rebates to our customers. Working together, we will enhance and expand our services to offer new and creative ways to lower employers’ prescription costs and provide their members with best-in-class experiences.”

Founded in 2011 by pharmacists dedicated to creating a truly different PBM model, Southern Scripts features a one-of-a-kind offering focused on customizable solutions that generate significant savings for its customers. A pioneer in pharmacy benefit innovations, Southern Scripts passes through 100 percent of drug pricing and rebates to its customers. It also offers a suite of services, including those focused on managing high-cost specialty medications and unique formulary strategies, which significantly reduce costs to both employers and their members without limiting access. The company is growing rapidly as more than 1,000 employers have enlisted its services to support their members.

“Southern Scripts plays a critical role in addressing rising prescription drug costs, one of the most severe health care pain points for U.S. employers. The company has an outstanding industry reputation for its commitment to providing customers with straightforward pharmacy benefit services that deliver results. We are honored that Southern Scripts’ founders chose Water Street as their partner,” said Ned Villers, partner, Water Street.

Dr. Boyd and the management team will continue to lead Southern Scripts. In addition to investing in the company, Water Street will provide strategic support through board positions. Steve Cosler, a Water Street operating partner and longtime executive in the specialty pharmacy and PBM industries, will join Southern Scripts’ board and serve as lead director.

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BOM gave a donation to the Cane River Children Services Christmas collection. The donation was used to help purchase Christmas gifts for foster care children in the community. Pictured from left are Jennifer Karle, Cane River Children’s Service’s Chief Executive Officer, and Brooke Latham, BOM Executive Assistant/Commercial Loan Processor.

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A combination of the COVID-19 pandemic and a small departing senior class meant that Northwestern State’s signing class Wednesday wouldn’t be bulky, but coach Brad Laird expects sizable impact.

NSU inked four players Wednesday, adding to the eight signees from the early signing date in December as the defensive theme continued for the 2021 group.

All four of Wednesday’s signees can play on defense and eight of the 12-member class can be featured on coordinator Mike Lucas’ side of the ball.

“Recruiting as we all know has been different, and it’s a credit to the young men who have gone through the process because everything was virtual – from Zoom and FaceTime calls not just with the student-athletes but also their family members,” said NSU head coach Brad Laird, who wrapped up his second full recruiting class as he enters his third season at the NSU helm. “There wasn’t going to be a lot of replacement with our seniors because we have a small class and they all have an extra year from the NCAA.

“But no doubt that this class is still important. These four signed today can play at different levels of our defense, and they are versatile players with most having state championship experience.”

Three of the four signees have Louisiana ties, including two that ended their high school careers in Turpin Stadium playing for state championships.

Many High’s Zequarrius Rhone quarterbacked the Tigers to the Class 2A championship, but he’ll likely be a safety at NSU after playing mostly cornerback on Many’s defense.

“When you’re the quarterback for the Many Tigers, you know not just the type of football player you’re getting but the type of person,” Laird said. “And that can be said about all four of these (signees).

“’Cadillac’ is flexible and can play multiple positions for us.”

The three-time all-district player and academic all-state member accounted for 1,500 yards and 15 touchdowns this past season and has more than 4,400 career offensive yards.

Linebacker Makarios “Junior” Brown sprinted all over Turpin Stadium in Byrd’s purple and gold as the Yellow Jackets fell in the Division I title game at Turpin Stadium.

Brown totaled 141 tackles and 27 for loss in his three years as a starter for a Byrd defense that’s one of the best units in the state. His 13 tackles for loss as a junior ranks 10th on Byrd’s all-time single-season list.

“Brown can be a linebacker in the 3-4,” Laird said. “With so many seniors that we have coming up at that position, it’s vital to get a linebacker that has the versatility to play inside or out.”

Laird targeted Gilmer High athlete Dylan Fluellen initially on defense, but Fluellen made offensive waves with 1,300 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior to earn his district’s offensive player of the year honor.

The all-state receiver has traditionally been a strong defensive back, intercepting five passes as a senior to pair with 60 tackles.

“Here’s another guy that played for a state title in Texas,” Laird said. “We were looking at him on defense, but he showed how versatile he is and that he can be a young man that can do a lot of different things down the road.”

Defensive lineman Theron Bellard highlighted his own versatility despite Cisco College not playing a season during the pandemic.

The Opelousas native who played his high school ball at Arlington High in Texas appeared in nine games with nine tackles as a freshman at Cisco College.

“When you look at his film, you can see that he can play inside or outside,” Laird said. “He adds flexibility to what Lucas and (defensive line coach LeDell Love) want to do on the line.”

With the addition of Rhone and Fluellen, five of the 12 signees could be in the secondary.

Seven signees will bolster the defense, four on the offense with Fluellen possibly playing either.

Junior college transfers Bellard and early signee Kel Williams are eligible to play immediately when NSU opens its season Feb. 20 at Lamar because they didn’t participate in a fall season.

 

2021 Northwestern State Signing Class (Wednesday)

Theron Bellard, DL, 6-2, 270, Opelousas, La., Cisco College/Arlington HS
Makarios “Junior” Brown, LB, 6-1, 207, Shreveport, La., C.E. Byrd HS
Dylan Fluellen, ATH, 6-2, 195, Gilmer, Texas, Gilmer HS
Zequarrius Rhone Jr., DB, 6-2, 190, Many, La., Many HS

Early Signing Class

Landon Blubaugh, OL, 6-3, 260, Keller, Texas, Keller HS
AJ Burns, CB, 5-11, 170, Waco, Texas, La Vega High
Kareame Cotton Jr., QB, 6-2, 195, North Little Rock, Ark., North Little Rock HS
Jaylon Glosson, TE, 6-3, 225, North Little Rock, Ark., North Little Rock High
Coby James, OL, 6-3, 260, Midlothian, Texas, Midlothian Heritage HS
Ara Rauls III, S, 5-10, 175, Waco, Texas, La Vega HS
Chase Underwood, OL, 6-3, 265, Mangham, La., Mangham HS
Zitavious (Kel) Williams, FS, 5-10, 180, Starkville, Miss., East Miss. CC (Starkville HS)

CREDIT: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services

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In February 2020 the A+ Coalition, an initiative of the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, awarded the first Technology in Education grant to NCHS Allied Health/EMT/EMR teacher, Wendi Worsham, who used grant funds to purchase a multi-touch, interactive smart table for her classroom. A year later, we reached out to Wendi to see how she has been able to implement the use of this smart table in her lessons, and how the technology has impacted her student’s learning this past year.

She wrote to us describing what the experience has been like for her and her students:

Before we had the smart table in our classroom, much of the explanation and teaching was done from videos, drawings on the board and pictures that came with our curriculum. It was hard to help students understand and visualize what some parts of the body looked like, where they were located, and how they functioned together.

Since receiving the grant funds and purchasing the multi-touch, interactive smart table for my classroom, I have been able to assist students in a greater understanding of topics taught in the Emergency Medical Responder course.

For example, when we begin learning about the cardiovascular system, it’s easy to visualize the heart and multiple arteries and vessels running all over the human body but understanding how they affected the entire body was difficult. The aorta for example, extends from the heart throughout the thorax of the patient. Having the smart table, along with the human atlas app, we have been able to virtually dissect the human body and see what’s inside. This has helped tremendously in the student’s understanding of how injuries and illness affects multiple systems.

I often hear students say, “SO THAT IS HOW IT LOOKS!”, or “so that’s why it affects this or that.” Creating critical thinkers is crucial in creating great first responders. Having students weigh the possibilities of what’s happening inside the body from what occurred or what we see outside the body is extremely important. Understanding that everything is connected and functions together is more likely to bring about a better outcome for those we are responding to.

We are beyond grateful for the opportunity to have the availability of this technology in our classroom. We appreciate the A+ Coalition for the grant and assisting us in creating a better future for all of us.

The A+ Coalition will be accepting applications for the 2021 Technology in Education Grant starting March 1, 2021. Educators will have through the end of March to apply. The details of the grant process can be found at apluscoaltion.com/grant.

The A+ Coalition recognizes that the responsibility to advance education in Natchitoches Parish relies not just on our educators, but on the entire community at large. To learn about the A+ Coalition and how you can join the movement, visit apluscoalition.com.

The Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to making the Natchitoches area a thriving business community by promoting commerce, strengthening people, and improving life.

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4.0 students named to NSU President’s List

Six hundred and sixty-two undergraduate students at Northwestern State University have been named to the President’s List for the Fall 2020 semester. Students on the President’s List must be enrolled full-time at Northwestern State and earn a 4.0 grade point average.

Those students named to the President’s List for the fall semester in Natchitoches Parish were:

Boyce – Savanna Budnik, Dylan Frazier, Devin Hilliard, Anna Lacombe, Dawn Miller;
Campti — Morgan Etheredge, Hannah Walker
Cloutierville — Alexis Coutee;
Goldonna – Madison Dupree, Alexander Guillory;
Natchez – Clarissa Bradley, Morgan Slaughter;
Natchitoches – Naomi Adams, Courtney Armstead, Sarah Aviles, Dylan Bennett, Gracie Bennett, Alyson Brown, James Burrell, Jazzare Burrell, Anna Coffey, Leanna Coy, Renee Cunnikin, Elliot Davis, Reagan Davis, Ashley Duffus, Bryn Edmonston, Gabrielle Edwards, Abbie Gandy, Kassidy Grantadams, Abby Guillory, Kali Hall, Kaitlin Hatten, Stevie Lane, Madison Lester, Chloe Longlois, Nicholas Lott, Rylie Mcfarlain, Jonah Mckay, Amber Marshall, LiZhang Matuschka, Miranda Mayeaux, Diana Marcela Mercado Garcia, Montel Mercier, Jordan Mitchell, Kelsie Moore, Emily Nobles, Kevin Nutt, Meya Nutt, Jay Oliphant, Romulo Osorio Herrera, Brittany Passi, Brandy Poole, Wyatt Quinn, Kira Raymond, LaKendria Remo, Melissa Remo, Alejandro Restrepo Cardozo, Kanika Revels, Anise Settle, Erin Smith, Kristin Smith, James Stanfield, Ellie Starks, Ashlynn Stewart, Heather Stewart, Veronica Sturman, Hannah Thomas, Harrison Thomas, Madison Thompson, Maeli Usleton, Melissa Washington, Raegan Washington, Mary Whitehead, Rebecca Wilson;
Robeline – Kilee Pickett, Jeffrey Watley, Jessica Clark;

For questions regarding the President’s List, please contact the NSU Registrar’s Office at (318) 357- 6171

NSU announces Fall 2020 Dean’s List

One thousand thirty-nine undergraduate students were named to the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Northwestern State University. Students on the Dean’s List must be enrolled full time and earn a grade point average of between 3.5 and 3.99.

Those named to the Dean’s List in Natchitoches Parish are as follows.

Boyce – Natalie Dear, Kaylin Gauthier, Abigail Jennings, Stephen Juneau, Kaitlyn Miller, Kelsey Miller, Chelsea Ryder, Anita Slaughter, Kionna Mitchell;
Campti – Paige Cason, Troy Coleman, Alexis Keith, Alexis Smith;
Goldonna – Kinsey Ryder, Noelle Warren;
Lena – Juan Gonzalez, Taylor Nichols;
Marthaville – Bridgette Phelps, Tatum Powell, Madeline Procell;
Natchez – Corey Bennett, Amberlyn Metoyer, Daisy Noel;
Natchitoches – Sharlexus Addison, Sharvel Addison, Sarah Aldredge, Mike Alukunyang, Kayla Anderson, Bobby Armstrong, Tanner Ash, James Bankston, TaKameria Barnes, Christopher Barren, Jacob Bartels, Lauren Bartels, Ashley Benson, Remy Bergeron, Megan Berry, Alaidrian Bolton, Gracie Borders, Maelana Braxton, Shenita Braxton, Dania Briceno Vasquez, Alexandra Brossett, Kealy Buchko, Jo David Bullard, Ron Byles, Cory Campbell, Elainna Casson, Valerie Chadick, Gilda Chan, Lane Clevenger, Laura Coffey, Cody Coleman, Kenneth Darcy, Heather Day, Naydi Daza Maya, Jard Elie, Tyler Flynn, Blake Fowler, Gabriela Forero Salcedo, Katlynn French, Randi Galyean, Ruth Garcia Rodriguez, Brian Geraghty, John Howell, Dania Hunter, Omari Irchirl, Courtany Jackson, Cierra Johnson, William Jordan, Maya Levo, Ivan Lorduy Camargo, Krislyn Mardis, Bailey Mcconnell, Maci Messenger, Travis Mitchell, Tristan Neitte, Kiara Padilla, Chaka Palm, Isabella Peluso, Shawn Perry, Savanna Pharris, Meredith Phelps, Alyssa Price, Daniela Salas Ricardo, Tiniti Sarpy, Emily Scott, Mary Scruggs, Devonne Seelig, MacKenzie Settle, Ashton Smith, Mary Smith, Kerrie Spillman, Dustin Stewart, Caroline Stokes, Raven Toussaint, Aaron Trichel, Destiny Tyler, Trinity Velazquez, Elizabeth Vienne, Lauren Vienne, Derek Walle, Rylee Wyer;
Provencal – Madison Grace, Morgan Grace, Christopher Jennings, Dylan Jennings;
Robeline – Georgia Dowden, Keira Huff, Tailor Jones, Mallary Lester, Marley Lester, Alyssa Maley, Caleb Martinez, Ember O’Bannon, Brooke Warren;
Saline – Bethany Oliver;

For questions regarding the Dean’s List, please contact the NSU Registrar’s Office at (318) 357- 6171

NSU lists students named to Fall 2020 Honor Roll

Eight hundred seventy-four undergraduate students at Northwestern State University were listed on the Fall Honor Roll. Students on the Honor Roll must be enrolled full-time at Northwestern and have a grade point average of between 3.0 and 3.49.

Students listed by hometown in Natchitoches Parish are as follows.

Boyce – Eli Maffioli, Olivia Melroy, Wyatt Miller,
Campti – Brittney Arnold, Alyssa Breaud, Madison Mclaren, Malayna Poche, Stoney Slaughter;
Cloutierville – Glenda Metoyer;
Goldonna – Gracie Weaver;
Lena – Antoinette Baker, Kamryn Glenn, Weslee Pickering, McKenzlea Wise;
Marthaville – Dylan Daniels, Madison Pleasant;
Natchez – Meya Morse, Jacorrian Davis, Walker Jackson, James Rougeou, David Williamson;
Natchitoches – Brock Barrios, Shamari Benning, Brandy Bentley, Kacy Bonds, Zoe Brock, Keyana Brown, Lindsay Brumley, Tyler Burr, Ladiamond Burrell, Savannah Bynog, Dager Carrasquilla, Starkeia Davis, Taneka Dunn, Stephen Eversull, Christian Farmer, Akilah Farris, Moesha Frazier, Kara Gandy, Mitchell Garcia, Taylor Garland, Peyton Graham, Kalen Green, Peyton Green, Terrence Green, Christiana Harris, Kevin Harris, Rafael Hernandez, Andrea Hudson, Devin Hudson, Karrington Johnson, Ronesha Johnson, Madeline Joubert, Ashley Kimich, Alexis Kitishian, Karlee Laurence, Meredith Matt, Kristin McQuillin, Mya Melancon, Janiel Moore, Melanie Nation, Austin Nichols, Weston Noe, Myles Nolley, Leilani Padilla, Grace Penrod, Kenneth Penrod, Veronica Perez Espinosa, Dara Pressley, Dylan Price, Jasmine Richardson, Shuzettie Roberson, Dante Samuel, Chandler Sarpy, Ruben Smith, Trayvon Snow, Travon Texada, Shayna Tilley, Devin Vanwinkle, Huey Virece, Lawrence Washington, Daniel Whatley, Brian White, Madison Williams, Trevor Williams, Shirley Wilson, Sharice Woods, Jack Wright, Natalia Zapata Yonoff;
Provencal – Brianna Ballard, Mason Pitts;
Saline – Haeven Durbin, Grace Mathews, Mikalee Sawyer, Trinity Sylvester;

For questions regarding the Honor Roll, please contact the NSU Registrar’s Office at (318) 357- 6171

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Anne Cummins, Group and Tourism Sales Coordinator for the Natchitoches Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been selected to participate in the 2021 class of the Louisiana Tourism Leadership Academy, presented by the Louisiana Tourism Association.

LTLA provides a unique continuing education and leadership training program for Louisiana’s travel and tourism industry. LTLA offers students the opportunity to meet and learn from seasoned professionals, as well as up-and-coming professionals. The annual program includes visits to destinations around the state with sessions focused on leadership, advocacy, marketing, and product development. As the students network and learn about the industry, they also complete a group project.

“I am excited for this opportunity to learn more about Louisiana tourism and bring that knowledge back to Natchitoches,” said Cummins. “I hope this allows me to be a better ambassador for Natchitoches tourism as well.”

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HUNTSVILLE, Texas – Northwestern State had just two matches to see how all the youth and new faces would look before starting Southland Conference play. The assessment from sixth-year head coach Sean Kiracofe after those matches was a good one.

“Very excited and very pleased,” Kiracofe said. “I still give them a solid B, because there’s a ton of room for improvement, a ton of room to clean some things up, but it was a great start.”

The Lady Demons (2-0, 0-0 SLC)) move straight into SLC play this week with two road matches against teams picked to finish in the top five in preseason poll. Thursday’s conference opener at Sam Houston (0-1, 0-1 SLC) is set for 6:30 p.m. from the Bearkats’ Johnson Coliseum.

A great start by the team was highlighted by several players, some of whom making their first appearances for NSU, and some where the expectations were high and easily matched.

Transfer Autumn Gentry had the third triple-double in program history in her first match at NSU while freshman Breanna Burrell found her offensive footing quickly with 21 kills in two matches with a .325 hitting percentage.

Taking over at the libero position was sophomore Haley Hoang, who met the role with high expectations from Kiracofe dating back to her recruitment. With a 6.7 dig per set average in her first two matches and a SLC Defensive Player of the Week honor already under her belt, it’s safe to say “Bro U” lives on at NSU.

“Had the total expectation that this is what she’s capable of doing,” Kiracofe said. “Believed that during the recruiting process and last year as she was coming in and playing right back defense for us.

“We knew that if the opportunity came, she could step into the libero role and hit the ground running and be great at it and she was. Once you sort of let her go, she’s going to find ways to keep the ball off the ground and get digs.”

While the defense led by Hoang was stellar, with so many new faces in charge of the offense seeing a pair of wins with the kind of efficiency the Lady Demons had most of the time, bodes well going forward for the team and freshman setter Ragan Ward.

While the highlight of Ward’s week was the long serving run where she totaled six aces, it was her ability to put the ball in the right spot for 39 assists that made just as much of a difference.

“She runs a great offense and has allowed us to speed things up,” Kiracofe said. “That’s something we’ve been doing as years have gone on. She was already running that in club and high school, so it’s been second nature to her. She’s been consistent and giving our attackers good looks to hit.”

The Lady Demons take on a Sam Houston team playing their second match of the year after losing a 3-2 decision to start conference play against Central Arkansas. In a normal season one match isn’t the end-all-be-all. In a shortened season where teams play each other just once, one match can make all the difference.

“This is kind of a taste of what football has to deal with on a regular basis,” Kiracofe said. “You get one shot and that’s it. It can all come down to one of your first few match ups in the regular season. You don’t get the luxury that we’ve usually had of a second chance at people.”

Preseason first-team attackers Ashley Lewis and Breanne Chausse had 36 of the 68 kills for the Bearkats in their loss to UCA, and lead a talented group advanced to the SLC Tournament championship match in 2019.

“To start out with Sam Houston, who returns pretty much everybody from last year, they’re going to have a great roster and a lot of talent,” Kiracofe said. “It’s a tough one to open up with, but it gives you an idea of where you’re at and what you need to work on.”

Fans wishing to attend the match at Sam Houston must purchase tickets prior to noon on gameday by logging on to GoBearkats.com or by calling the SHSU ticket office at (936) 294-1729.

The Johnson Coliseum capacity is limited to 1,218 fans. All fans purchasing a ticket will have a seat assignment on their ticket and are required to sit in the designated upper or lower reserved seat. No walk-up tickets are available for purchase. Those on the visitor pass list for NSU will enter gates 20 and 21 and will be seated in sections Q and R. All fans must wear face coverings.

Photo credit: Chris Reich, NSU Photographic Services

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By Steve Graf

Last week we broke down five tips on what to look for when buying a bass boat. This week we’ll take it even further from bow to stern. As I stated last week, boat shows will mostly be held in-house at the dealerships rather than the traditional boat shows with all dealers in one location; of course, this is all due to Covid 19 protocol we’re still dealing with. So, let’s continue and finish what we started.

1. Don’t under power the boat….Make sure you put whatever size motor that the boat is rated for. Nothing is worse than getting to lake with a boat that under performs because you put a motor on it that will not allow the boat to perform at its peak level. If it calls for a 250 hp. motor put that on the boat. It’s not worth the aggravation just to save a little money. You’ll be much happier when the boat performs like you thought it would when you purchased it. Also, it makes it a little more difficult to a sell a boat that does not have the size motor the boat is rated for.

2. Trolling motor….. this is one of the most overlooked features when buying a boat. All trolling motors are not created equal! Again, make sure you get a trolling motor that will pull the boat through heavy cover and over stumps. Nothing is more aggravating than getting in back water and staying hung up because your trolling motor isn’t strong enough. You also need to decide if you want hand control or foot control. Both have their advantages. But the one feature that has revolutionized fishing is the new “spot lock” feature that Minn Kota has. This just might be the best new feature that’s happened in the last ten years. Spot lock allows you to set up on a deep-water hole or brush top without touching the trolling motor even during a heavy wind. I won’t have another trolling motor without this feature.

3. Good insulated live wells with good aerators. This is very important when it comes to making sure your catch stays alive and keeps fish in good condition for release after the weigh-in. Insulated live wells will help keep the water at a consistent temperature and allows the angler to control the environment while keeping fish comfortable and alive.

4. Accessories….this is what makes a boat a great. For me the following items are a must. Good electronics (Garmin, Lowrance or Hummingbird) you can’t go wrong with any one brand. They all have some features better than the other. An on board 3 bank charger is a must. A “Hot Foot” just makes good sense in terms of safety and making the boat perform at its peak. Rod tie downs, these will ensure that your rod and reels stay in the boat. Lighted locker boxes are a necessity for me and really come in handy. Minn Kota Talon shallow water anchor system, this is another great accessory that comes in real handy when docking or fishing for bedding fish. You’ll be amazed how handy this accessory is.

5. When is the best time to buy a boat? In the past, boat shows have been the best place to buy a new boat. Mainly because, at no time during the year will you be able to get a better deal than at the boat show. Dealers are in the mood to make deals in order to help pay for the floor space their leasing at the show. They know that buyers are in the mood to purchase now that hunting season is over. More deals are usually made at boat shows than any other time of the year. But this year will be different as boat shows are canceled and dealers do in-houseboat shows instead. You’ll be able to get a great deal as dealers look to save some money by not having to purchase floor space for a boat show. There should also be special financing available for the length of time dealers decide to do their in-houseboat show.

6. Is it a good idea to buy a team boat? This is a question I get a lot. Here’s my opinion: If you’re buying from a local dealer, most will have a group of anglers that they have as “Team guys” who take a boat and use it for a year. At the end of the year, they are required to sell the boat at a discounted price. This can be one of the best ways to get into a top-quality boat at a good price. You can save several hundred and, in some cases,, thousands of dollars depending on the make and model. These boats have been well taken care of and in most cases, they have had the kinks worked out and the motors have been broken in properly. These boats have been pampered and serviced properly and are usually in fantastic shape at the end of the one-year period. Some dealers will even allow you to come in a pre-purchase a team boat and take possession at the end of the one-year period and you get all the discounts as well. But be prepared to make a deposit on the boat in order to finalize the purchase if you decide on buying a team boat.

I hope these boat buying tips have helped you! Buying a new bass boat can be a major purchase and, in some cases, will cost more than the truck pulling it. But if I had to give you one more piece of advice, get what you want and don’t settle for something you won’t be happy with. This usually occurs when people try to save a few dollars and buy a boat with too small a motor instead of the motor it’s rated for. Major mistake!!! Till next time, don’t forget to set the hook! Make sure to tune into the Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show every Wednesday live from 11:00 till 1:00 and Saturday mornings from 6:00 till 8:00 on AM 1130 The Tiger KWKH or go to our Facebook page or You Tube Channel.

Steve Graf
Owner/Co-host
Hook’N Up & Track’N Down Show

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