This morning at approximately 7:41am, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #6 members and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS responded to a mobile home fire in the 200 block of Eight Mile Loop near Natchitoches according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The cause of the fire is being determined by NPFD #6.

Deputies say 34-year-old Alexander Trichel of Natchitoches was transported from the scene by EMS to Natchitoches Regional Medical Center with 2nd & 3rd degree burns to his back suffered while attempting to save his animals from the interior of the home.

Some of the pets were rescued but sadly others perished in the fire.

The mobile home owned by M. Esparza was a total loss.

Any additional information should be obtained from NPFD #6.

---

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies have identified and are actively searching for a Natchitoches man that led deputies on a pursuit on La. Hwy 478 then ditched the vehicle and fled into some nearby woods on Saturday morning according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.

Deputies are currently searching for 28-year-old Dajohn Maxwell Hymes, B/M, Hgt/509, Wgt/170 with black hair and brown eyes last seen wearing dark clothing.

Hymes is wanted by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office on active criminal arrest warrants signed by a 10th Judicial District Judge for Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of a Felony, Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Driving under Suspension, No Vehicle License, Speeding and other traffic offenses.

It began on Saturday morning March 19 around 11am, when NPSO Deputy B. Keyser attempted to stop a Honda passenger car on La. Hwy 478 east of La. Hwy 1 South for Speeding over 90 miles per hour and other traffic offenses.

Deputy Keyser attempted to stop the vehicle, allegedly operated by Dajohn Hymes but he failed to stop leading deputies on a pursuit in excess of 90 mph. Hymes then ditched the vehicle on La. Hwy 478 east of the Old River Road exited and fled into some nearby woods.

Multiple sheriff’s office units and Louisiana State Police responded to the scene to set-up a perimeter and coordinate a search of the area with the assistance of the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office K-9 Tracking Team.

A local wrecker service was contacted to impound the vehicle.

During an inventory of the vehicle, deputies recovered a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun with laser sights and an extended magazine containing 29 rounds of ammunition.

Deputies also observed that some object other than a key was inserted in the ignition and a false temporary tag on the vehicle.

A National Crime Information Center Check revealed that the handgun had been reported stolen to Natchitoches Police Department in June of 2020 during an auto burglary in the City of Natchitoches.

A heavy law enforcement presence could be seen on La. Hwy 478 and the Old River Road area on Saturday afternoon for several hours while the search was being conducted.

Deputies postponed the search after the tracking team determined and believed that Hymes may have made it to an area and was picked up.

Hymes was arrested by Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies in December of 2018 following a 4-hour manhunt in Natchez in connection with a domestic disturbance. During that incident he jumped out a bedroom window and fled. A stolen Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun was recovered.

In August of 2021, Hymes was arrested by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Deputies on drug and weapons charges in Sabine Parish following a traffic stop. A .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun was seized in that arrest also.

Hymes has numerous other arrests and is a convicted felon.

Deputies say Hymes reportedly has ties to the Natchitoches and Natchez areas.

If you see Hymes, do not approach him, contact 911 or the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office at 352-6432. You may remain confidential.

Deputies remind the public to always lock your vehicles, park in lighted areas, don’t leave items in plain view and always remove weapons or other valuables from the interior of your vehicle.

Deputies thank the public who were willing to assist and called in with possible information and tips today.

---

The Natchitoches Parish Master Gardener Association will be having its 2022 Master Gardener Class starting May 10. It will be a 10 week course with classes once a week and is required for anyone wanting to join the association.  Applications can be picked up from the LSU AgCenter office at 624 Second Street. Applications are due back by April 15. Anyone wanting more information can call the AgCenter office at 318-357-2224 and ask for the county agent, Randall Mallette.

The Louisiana Master Gardener program is a service and educational activity offered by the LSU AgCenter. The program is designed to recruit and train volunteers to help meet the educational needs of home gardeners while providing an enjoyable and worthwhile service experience for volunteers.

Master Gardeners are part of the volunteer staff of the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service. They provide unbiased, research-based educational assistance and programs on consumer horticulture issues to the gardening public.

The Louisiana Master Gardener program provides invaluable training and educational opportunities. The program is open to all people regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion or national origin. Master Gardener programs are all-volunteer programs sanctioned by land-grant institutions in each state and function as an extension of the college or university. In Louisiana, the program is sponsored by the LSU AgCenter and is directed by the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service.

Experienced and beginning gardeners seeking up-to-date horticultural information can advance their gardening expertise and gain self-satisfaction through volunteer efforts. The volunteer aspect of the Louisiana Master Gardener program allows individuals to dedicate their time and talents to enhancing the quality of life for citizens of their community by using the science and art of horticulture. It allows individuals to put into practice what they know and learn.

---

Description: Experienced and reliable Property Manager to oversee operations at our 40-unit complex. In this position, you will create leasing contracts for new and current tenants, ensure units are ready for tenants, fulfill repair requests efficiently, collect monthly rents, and track daily expenses, to provide regular status reports on the condition of the property and any issues that arise and maintain a positive relationship with renters and tenants.

Qualifications: Our ideal candidate has at least five years of property management experience. High school degree or equivalent; bachelor’s degree in related field preferred. Proficient with Microsoft Office and property management software. Organized and able to create multiple timelines, budgets, and schedules. Excellent communication skills

Deadline: Applications will be accepted through March 28, 2022

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE

Please mail resumes to:
Willa Point Apartments
ATTN: Human Resources
PO Box 255
Natchitoches LA 71457

---

NATCHITOCHES – Results of the 2022 Northwest Louisiana District Literary Rally hosted by Northwestern State University have been released. Students from high schools in central and northwest Louisiana participated in the Rally, which is held each year to qualify academically talented students for the state competition at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge on April 9.

Medal winners from Division I, students who scored highest in their subject, are listed as follows.

Alexandria Senior High– Micheal Terrell, Advanced Math – Function and Statistics; Krishna Patel, Algebra II; Hunter Goudeau, Economics; Bella Geiger, English III; Clark Robinson, Environmental Science; Naomi Pena, Government; Brandon Hagan, Psychology; Chris Martin, Sociology; Luiza Santos, Spanish I; Stephen Naegle, World Geography;

Benton – Joshua Petermann, Biology I;

Byrd – Gergely Szarvas, Biology II, Calculus II; Gavin Dawson, Business Computer Applications; Isabel Lawrence, Business English; Josephine Comerford, Computer Science; Gabriel Tabor, Earth Science; Emilija Majstorovic, English I; Kate Shaw, English II; Kingson Wills, English IV; Rein Hanson, French II; Nicholas Carr, Geometry; Shelby Sanders, Spanish IV; James Stratton, U.S. History;

Captain Shreve – Jeffrey Souto, Advanced Math – Pre Calculus; Carter Cox, Calculus; Phat Dang, Chemistry; Gracie Law, Financial Literacy; Eaton Flowers, French III; Russell Peacock, Physics; Brett Pernell, Spanish II; Kylee Williams, Spanish III; Katie Ferrier, World History;

Natchitoches Central – Whitt Scott, Accounting I; Mary Leblanc, Agriscience I; Brayden Pullig, Agriscience II; Adam Guillet,, Algebra I; Caleb Weaver, Nutrition & Food;

Pineville – Fritz Guidry, Agriscience III; Gibson Russell, Civics; Elizabeth Broussard, Fine Arts Survey; Kirsch Lawson French I; Brynn Tighe, Health; Isabelle Boykin, Journalism I; Lawson Kirsch, Physical Science; Aidan Talley, Principles of Business; Haley Bercegeay, Spelling;

Southwood – Kaylie Brantley, Family and Consumer Science;

Medal winners from Division II are:

Buckeye – Ariana Watts, Accounting I; Aiden Werner, Agriscience I; Gabe Hoosier, Agriscience II, Andy Floyd, Agriscience III; Sasha Hines, Biology I; Tyler Salard, Biology II; Dalton Dyer, Earth Science, Physics; Garrett Frazier, Economics, Gavin Hoffpauir, English I, Morgan Tradewell, English IV; Mandy Belgard, Environmental Science; Samantha Kendrick, Family & Consemer Science; Kaden David, Geometry; Christa Ann Kees, Government; Celise Crenshaw, Health; Garrett Richey, Nutrition & Food; Caitlyn Soileau, Principles of Business, Ella Locke Psychology; Alyssa Clinton, Spanish I, Morgan McMickens, Spanish II, Mitchell Leblanc, Spanish III, Josh Gonzaga, Spanish IV; Clay Baden, U.S. History; Will Pesnell, World History;

Bolton – Laura Ajlani, Advanced Math – Function & Statistics; Cade Scherer, Advanced Math – Pre-Calculus; Sarah Osete Fischer, Algebra II; Marrissa Carr, Business Computer Applications; Sophie Lytle, Business English; Lily Mikulas, Calculus; Cade Scherer, Chemistry; Jenevieve Bolen, English III, Physical Science; Katie Dupre, Financial Literacy; Davis Penny, Fine Arts Survey; Sophie Lytle, French II; William Seeling, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Ella Aguillard, Sociology; Rebekah Staples, World Geography;

Huntington – Saudiyah McCoy, Spelling;

North DeSoto – Allen McMullen, Algebra I; James Herring, Civics; Logan Enloe, Computer Science; Noah Severin, English II; Grace Youngblood, Journalism I;

Medal winners from Division III are:

Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts – Nathaniel Vise, Biology I; Griffin McFarland, Biology II; Rosie Schultz, Chemistry; Jack Yi, English II; Natalie Conravey, English III; Lilly Blanchard, Environmental Science; Travis Elmore, Fine Arts Survey; Corey Keller, French I; Tadgh Bowman, French II, Moira Franks, French III; Lilly Blanchard, Health; Adam Deslatte, Physics; Aroma Chanda, Spanish III; Travis Elmore, Spanish IV;

Loyola College Prep – Rhys Armagost, Advanced Math – Pre-Calculus; Charlotte Cole, Calculus; Lacie Johnson, Calculus II; Hannah Lafitte, Civics; Mary Walker, English I; Frances Kalmbach, English IV; Ainsley Hanes, Geometry; Jacob Garfunkel, Government; Angel Pham, Physical Science; Annabelle Jones, Psychology; Mary Walker, Spanish I, Reggie Sipes, Spanish II; Cooper Defatta, U.S. History; Josephine Cannon, World History;

North Caddo Magnet – Madison Willis, Algebra I; Logan Rowell, Business Computer Applications; Ashton Vaughn, Financial Literacy; Kevin Peace, World Geography;

Red River – Erik Hanson, Business English, Introduction to Business Computer Applications;

Winnfield – Joy So, Advanced Math – Function & Statistics; Noe Vasquez, Agriscience I; Lauren Rouse, Agriscience II; Kaden Victor, Agriscience III; Jeremiah Laughlin, Algebra II; Peyton Little, Spelling;

Medal winners from Division IV are:

Calvary Baptist Academy – Liberty Haase, Advanced Math – Function & Statistics; Tucker Gamble, Algebra I; Joshua Roper, Chemistry; Bryce Sutton, Civics; Zachary Robinson, English II; Avery Fore, Spanish I;

Converse – Heather Kurtz, Accounting; Ava Daigrepont, Agriscience I; Katie Murray, Business Computer Applications; Addison Rivers, Earth Science; Kayleigh Johnston, Environmental Science; Annabelle Bagley, Financial Literacy; Christian Callendar, Government; Summer Brumley, Principles of Business; Hunter Brumley, Sociology; Lucas Remedies, World Geography; Kudge Boudreaux, World History;

Evangel Christian Academy – Olivia Moench, Computer Science; William Harrel, English I; Matthew Davison, English IV; John Javellana, Geometry; Rachel Davison, Physics; Kyle Bryant, Psychology;

Glenmora – Francisco Rubio, Advanced Math – Pre-Calculus; John Marshall, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Priscilla Rubio, Journalism I; Jeremiah Vance, Spelling;

Northwood-Lena – Emily Waits, English III; George Setliff, Fine Arts Survey; Tyricks Starks, Nutrition & Food;

Rapides – Zachary Monroe, Agriscience III; Aron Fletcher, Biology I; Ilda Lopez, French I; Macy Robins, Health; Joey Glaubitz, Physical Science; Mallory Fletcher, Spanish II;

Ringgold – Skilar Page, Agriscience II; Business English; Heather Parker, Biology II; Kierstyn Mattison, Family & Consumer Science;

Zwolle – Mason Starks, Algebra II; Jeffrey Etheridge, U.S. History;

Medal winners from Division V are:

Atlanta – Prentiuna Sapp, Advanced Math – Function & Statistics;

Caddo Virtual Academy – Nina Wiley, Environmental Science; Sierra Bonds, Physical Science;

Calvin – Gunnar Yokum, Agriscience II; Aeriana Eusey, Geometry;

Dodson – Elizabeth Hastings, Advanced Math – Pre-Calculus; Anna Worthington, Agriscience I; Anna Worthington, Biology I; Graciela Cirilo, Business Computer Applications; Breana Wise, Family & Consumer Science; Summer Gorham, Fine Arts Survey; Renae Adams, Journalism I; Caroline Boyett, World History;

Negreet – Randi Kelly, Algebra I; Christian Culbertson, Civics; Hannah Hippler, English III, U.S. History; Mason Lowe, World Geography;

Riverdale Academy – Molly Seales; Lilly Guillot, English I; Tyler Jones, Physics; Caleb Dabbs, Spanish II; Collin Hesson, Spelling;

St. Mary’s – Andrew Kautz, Algebra II; Emma Broadway, Business English; Camille Ball, Calculus; Reeves Hogg, Chemistry; Anna Thibodaux, English II; Anna Jackson, English IV; Luke Johnson, Government; Peter Kautz, Health; Colton Cross, Spanish I;

State Qualifiers for Division I are as follows.

Alexandria Senior High School – Micheal Terrell, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Jonathon Vo, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Krishna Patel, Algebra II, Johanna Schrock, Biology I; Andrew Heaton, Biology II; Quincy Franklin, Chemistry; Hunter Goudeau, Economics; Ashton Mathews, English II; Bella Geiger, English III; Madison Williams, English IV; Clark Robinson, Environmental Science; Amurie Sarpy, Financial Literacy; Ahsan Mansoor, Geometry; Naomi Delapena, Government; Julia Loken, Health; Shelbi Carrington, Intro Business Computer Applications; Brandon Hagan, Psycology; Chris Martin, Sociology; Luiza Dos Santos, Spanish 1; Stephen Naegle, World Geography; Owen Morrow, World History;

Benton High School – Joshua Petermann, Biology I; Micholas Davis, Civics; Jacob Gallagher, English I; Haydon Stockton, Spanish I;

Byrd High School — Marina Klein, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Hudson Bruce, Algebra I; Shepherd Smith, Biology I; Gergely Szarvas, Biology II; Gavin Dawson, Business Compute Applications; Jackson Ballew, Calculus; Michael Burford, Chemistry; Garrett Stroud, Civics; Josephine Comerford, Computer Science; Emilija Majstorovic, Enligsh I; Kate Shaw, English II; Kingson Wills, English IV; Leila Walkoviak, French I; Erin Hanson, French II; Nicholas Carr, Geometry; Christopher Sumlin, Government; Katherine Bell, Physical Science; Michael Cosse, Physics; Shelby Sanders, Spanish IV; James Stratton, U.S. History; Chloe Liles, World History;

Captain Shreve – Jeffrey Souto, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Michael Horton, Algebra II; Tanner Branch, Business Computer Applications; Carter Cox, Calculus; Phat Dang, Chemistry; Meagan Hill, Family and Consumer Science; Gracie Law, Financial Literacy; Lillian Tichenor, French II; Keaton Flowers, French III; Andrew Bane, Geometry; Russell Peacock, Physics; Cooper Wooten, Psychology; Brett Pernell, Spanish II; Kylee Williams, Spanish III; Ryan Lewis, U.S. History; Katie Claire Ferrier, World History;

Natchitoches Central – Whitt Scott, Accounting I; Mary Jane LeBlanc, Agriscience I; Brayden Kale Pullig, Agriscience II; Briley Pitts, Agriscience III; Adam Guillet, Algebra I; Taylor Eubanks, Algebra II; Huntar Goings, English I; Kristyn Anderson, English II; Bethanne Methvin, English III; Collin Lodridge, Fine Arts Survey; Natalie Luna, Intro Business Computer Applications; Caleb Weaver, Nutrition and Food; Morgan McClinton, Physical Science; Joshua Durr, Spanish II; Avery Summerlin, U.S. History; Keara Nelson, World Geography;

Pineville High – Olivia Melder, Accounting I; Parker Causey, Agriscience II; Fritz Guidry, Agriscience III; Noah Langford, Algebra I; Landon Rosedale, Biology II; Reid Briley, Calculus; Gibson Russell, Civics; Ava Lacour, English III; Nell White, English IV; Walker O’Neal, Environmental Science; Elizabeth Broussard, Fine Arts Survey; Ella Clancy, French I; Brynn Tight, Health; Isabelle Boykin, Journalism I; Lawson Kirsch, Physical Science; Aidan Talley, Principles of Business; Nathan Price, Sociology;

Southwood High School – Kaylie Brantley, Family and Consumer Science; Kayden Jones, Nutrition and Food; Emelia Salter, World Geography.

State Qualifiers for Division II are as follows.

Bolton High School – Laura Ajlani, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Tyler Hamilton, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Sarah Osete-Fischer, Algebra II; Stella Voorhies, Biology I; Asjad Mansoor, Biology II; Marrissa Carr, Business Computer Applications; Lily Mikulas, Calculus; Cade Scherer, Chemistry; Kobe Clark, Civics; Libby Heard, English I; Cora Wright, English II; Jenevieve Bolen, English III; Josephine Michiels, Environmental Science; Kaniya Strong, Family and Consume Science; Katie Dupre, Financial Literacy; Penny Davis, Fine Arts Survey; Sophie Lytle, French I; Amiyah Wright, French II; Maddison Rolfe, Geometry; Gia Quesada, Government; William Seeling, Intro to Business Computer Applications; Clayton Leach, Journalism I; Megan Turner, Physical Science; Lila Goodling, Psychology; Ella Aguillard, Sociology; Kathryn Scarbrook, U.S. History; Rebekah Staples, World History;

Buckeye High School – Ariana Watts, Accounting I; Lindsey Lee, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Aiden Werner, Agriscience I; Gabe Hoosier, Agriscience II; Andy Floyd Agriscience III;Rylee Baker, Algebra I; Olivia Henry, Algebra II; Sasha Hines, Biology I; Tyler Salard, Biology II; Adriane LaBorde, Business Computer Applications; Garrett Frazier, Economics; Gavin Hoffpauir, English I; Brooke Paul, English III; Morgan Tradewell, English IV; Mandy Belgard, Environmental Science; Samantha Kendrick, Family and Consumer Science; Evan Dyer, Financial Literacy; Reece Gaspard, French II; Kaden David, Geometry; Christa-Ann Kees, Government; Celise Crenshaw, Health; Madeline Crooks, Intro to Business Computer Applications; Garrett Richey, Nutrition and Food; Dalton Dyer, Physics; Caitlyn Soileau, Principles of Business; Ella Locke, Psychology; Alyssa Clinton, Spanish I; Morgan McMickens, Spanish II; Mitchell LeBlanc, Spanish III; Josh Gonzaga, Spanish IV; Clay Baden, U.S. History; Jessica Paulk, World Geography; Will Pesnell, World History;

Huntington High School – Jaclyn Hust, English IV;

North DeSoto – Riley Hudnall, Advance Math-Precalculus; Brookelynn Austin, Agriscience I; Allen McMullen, Algebra I; Cheyenne Johnson, Chemistry; James Herring, Civics; Logan Enloe, Computer Science; Noah Severin, English II; Sara Lane, Fine Arts Survey; Katie Enloe, Health; Grace Youngblook, Journalism I; Katherine Springer, Principles of Business; Emily Jones, Spanish I; Brianna McDowell, Spanish II; Abigail Chen, Spanish III; Cara McDaniel, Spanish IV; Alyssa Deason, World History;

State qualifiers in Division III are as follows.

Loyola College Prep – Rhys Armagost, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Charlotte Fulco, Algebra I; Fritze Olsan, Algebra II; Charlotte Cole, Calculus; Lacie Johnson, Calculus; Cameron Tucker, Chemistry; Hannah Lafitte, Civics; Mary Walker, English I; Millicent Mascagni, English II; Jackson Green, English III; Frances Kalmbach, English IV; Ainsley Hanes, Geometry; Jacob Garfunkel, Government; Angel Pham, Physical Science; Maeve Chmielewski, Physics; Annabelle Jones, Psychology; Carigan Carr, Spanish I; Reggie Sipes, Spanish II; Maggie Googe, Spanish III; Declan Chmielewski Spanish IV; Cooper Defatta, U.S. History; Adriana Martin, World Geography, Josephine Cannon, World History;

Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts – Jolie England, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Nathaniel Vise, Biology I; Griffin McFarland, Biology II; Kate Long, Calculus II; Rosei Schultz, Chemistry; Lara Boudreaux, Civics; Jack Yi, English II; Natalie Conravey, English III; Cami Wainwright, Environmental Science; Corey Keller, French I; Tadgh Bowman, French II; Moira Frankcs, French III; Lilly Blanchard, Health; Adam Deslatte, Physics; Ryan Kappil, Spanish I; Ryan Le, Spanish II; Aroma Chanda, Spanish III; Travis Elmore, Spanish IV; Emma Cecchini, World History;

North Caddo – Madison Willis, Algebra I; Daniel Gallagher, Biology I; Logan Rowell, Business Computer Applications; Kevin Peace, Environmental Science; Ashton Vaughn, Financial Literacy; Jaquarian Bullard, French I; Ballard Mikayla, French II; Chase Kendrick, Geometry; Natalie Ball, Government; Jacob Thomas, Health;

Red River High — Tess Zegel, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Addison Bounds, English I; Michah Davis, Financial Literacy; Erik Hanson, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Korie Williamson, Physical Science;

Winnfield – Joy So, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Noe Vasquez, Agriscience I; Lauren Rouse, Agriscience II; Kaden Victor, Agriscience III; Jeremiah Laughlin, Algebra II; Macy Hemphill, Biology II; Jayden Lawson, Business Computer Applications; Peyton Little, English IV; Mackenzie Green, Fine Arts Survey; Latricia Johnson, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Annie Heard, Psychology; James Simmons, U.S. History; John Sipes, Word Geography;

State Qualifiers in Divison IV are as follows.

Calvary Baptist – Liberty Haase, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Tucker Gamble, Algebra I; Joshua Roper, Chemistry; Bryce Sutton, Civics; Abram Covington, English I; Zachary Robinson, English II; Emily Pierce, Geometry; Avery Fore, Spanish I; Mason Batts, U.S. History;

Converse High School – Heather Kurz, Accounting; Ava Daigrepont, Agriscience I; Caitlyn Fisher, Agriscience III; Gage Reynolds, Algebra I; Madison Hill, Algebra II; Trevor Dobbs, Biology I; Wren Britt, Biology II; Katie Murray, Business Computer Applications; Kayleigh Johnston, Environmental Science; Annabelle Bagley, Financial Literacy; Jasmine Rutherford, Fine Arts Survey; Christian Callendar, Government; Madison Wray, Nutrition and Food; Summer Brumley, Principles of Business; Allie Ryals, Psychology; Hunter Brumley, Sociology; Lucas Remedies, World Geography; Judge Boudreaux, World History;

Evangel Christian Academy – Sydney Harrel, Biology I; Arin Banks, Civics; Olivia Moench, Computer Science; William Harrel, English I; Anna Greek, English II; Jonah Cryer, English III; Matthew Davison, English IV; Aiden Bowman, Financial Literacy; Ethan Paredes, Geometry; Logan Mayo, Physical Science; Rachel Davison, Physics; Kyle Bryant, Psychology; John Javellana, Spanish I; Ethan Campisi, U.S. History; Matthew Jarrett, World Geography;

Glenmora High School – Francisco Rubio, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Haylan Smith, Algebra II; Breanna Baillio, Chemistry; Victor Thenekhamsyharath, Environmental Science; John Marshall, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Priscilla Rubio, Journalism I; Alyssa Waller, Principles of Business; Marshall Dauzat, Spanish I;

Northwood-Lena — Adrienne Boyd, Biology II; Kaden Lee, English I; Emily Waits, English IV; Emily Adams, English IV; George Setliff, Fine Arts Survey; Tyrick Starks, Nutrition and Food;

Rapides High School – Angela Felix, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Zachary Monroe, Agriscience III; Aaron Fletcher, Biology I; Isabelle Dunn, Chemistry; Stephanie Rubio, English II; Ravyn Long, English IV; Ilda Lopez, French I; Triston Blue, Geometry; Macy Robins, Health; Joey Gaubitz, Physical Science; Jordin Ebare, Physics; Malloyr Fletcher, Spanish II; Alicia Martin, U.S. History; Izabella Petersen, World History;

Ringgold High School – Skilar Page, Agriscience II; Heather Parker, Computer Science; Kierstyn Mattison, Family and Consumer Science; Lanyjha Trent, Health; Hilary Bates, Sociology;

Zwolle High School – Karly Martinez, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Lydia Procell, Agriscience I; Mattea Whittington, Agriscience II; Jayden Delatin, Algebra I; Mason Starks, Algebra II; Piper Adair, Business Computer Applications; McKenzie Sepulvado, Civics; Jeffrey Etheredge, English III; Jenna Elkins, Introduction to Business Computer Applications; Nevaeh Cross, Spanish II;

State qualifiers in Division V are as follows.

Atlanta High School — Prentiuna Sapp, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Zaibriana McLaren, English III;

Caddo Virtual Academy – Dacoreyous Freeman, Chemistry; Jamaya Fry, English IV; Nina Wiley, Environmental Science; Sierra Bonds, Physical Science;

Calvin High School – Gunnar Yocum, Agriscience III; Aden Coleman, Algebra I; Remington Lee, Algebra II; Wyatt Bedgood, Civics; Kyleigh Blundell, Environmental Scieince; Aeriana Eusey, Geometry;

Dodson High School – Elizabeth Hastings, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Anna Worthington, Agriscience I; Catherine Martin, Agriscience III; Graciela Cirilo, Business Computer Applications; Breana Wise, Family and Consumer Science; Summer Gorham, Fine Arts Survey; Hunter Vines, Geometry; Renae Adams, Journalism I; Trenten Howard, U.S. History; Caroline Boyett, World History;

Negreet High School – Randi Jo Kelly, Algebra I; Christian Culbertson, Civics; Abby Shanley, English I; Kara Davidson, English II; Hannah Hippler, English III; Caleb Miller, U.S. History; Mason Lowe, World Geography;

Pleasant Hill – Carleseah Douglas, Physical Science; Anna Jordan, Spanish II;

Riverdale Academy – Sidney Free, Advanced Math-Functions and Statistics; Reagan Huddleston, Advanced Math-Precalculus; Mason Murray, Algebra II; Hayden Hillman, Biology I; Molly Seales, Biology II; Lilly Guillot, English I; Will Jones, English II; Rylee Hodge, Fine Arts Survey, Sky McMullan, Geometry; Aston Hester, Health; Tyler Jones, Physics; Caleb Dabbs, Spanish II; Ryder Huddleston, World Geography;

St. Mary’s – Emma Blanchard, Algebra I; Andrew Kautz, Algebra II; Abigail Rodriguez, Biology I; Emma Broadway, Biology II; Camille Ball, Calculus; Reeves Hogg, Chemistry; Georgia Philen, English I; Anna Thibodaux, English II; Mason Melder, English III; Anna Jackson, English IV; Luke Johnson, Government; Peter Kautz, Health; Colton Cross, Spanish I; Trent Middendorf, U.S History; Ella Guillet, World History

Sweepstakes winners in Division I were Alexandria Senior High, first place; C.E. Byrd High School, second place, and Pineville High, third place. In Division II, sweepstakes winners were Bolton High School, first place; Buckeye High School, second place, and North DeSoto, third place. Division III sweepstakes winners were LSMSA, first place, Loyola Prep, second place, and Winnfield High School, third place. Division IV sweepstakes winners were Evangel Christian Academy, first place; Zwolle High School, second place, and Rapides third place. Sweepstakes winners in Division V were Dodson High School, first place; St. Mary’s, second place, and Riverdale, third place.

---

Fairview Alpha Elementary announces students who made honor roll for the 3rd nine weeks.

Principal’s List (4.00 GPA)

6th grade
Logan Rachal

A Honor Roll (3.5-3.99 GPA)

3rd Grade
Daylon Peace
Abron Ryder

4th grade
Eli Alford
Sophia Blake
Dan Davenport
Aiden Donaway
Gabrielle Leeper

5th grade

Connor Franks

6th grade
Sean Broadway
Kameron Carter
Lauryn Lindsey
London Lonadier
Jacob Montgomery
Brianna Morgan

B Honor Roll (3.0-3.49 GPA)

3rd Grade
Noah Alford
Jeremiah Allen
Sasha Bush
Reagan Koffskey
Jessilynn Moran
Jason Moss
Sam Telsee
A’Miya Thomas
Gabrielle Turner

4th grade
Presley Alexander
Kayden Bynog
Kyler Evans
Brandon Harnage
Easton Montgomery
Jartravez Reliford
Samuel Thomas

5th grade
Jazmyne Clark

6th grade
Wyatt Cook
Sophia Dowden
Piper Downs
Kalleigh Vaughn

---

NSU Middle Lab students finished the 3rd nine-weeks grading period with academic achievements:

Students on the Principal’s List are 4.0 GPA students, the A Honor Roll students have a GPA of 3.5-3.99 and the B Honor Roll students have a GPA of 3.0 to 3.49.

Principal’s List (4.0 GPA)

6th Grade
Kimoni Ajise
Jake Cain
Valentina Forkner
Pierce Hyams
Amsden Pasch
Aleda Shirley
James Wilkerson

7th Grade
Peyton Faucheaux
Alison Key
Maggie Massia
Anthony Miller
Camille Procell
Ana Reynolds-Perez
Abram Romero
Zavion Sowell
Nathaniel Young

8th Grade
Cameron Brunson
Christian Frazier
Sienna Henderson
Lila Robertson
Annaliece Romero
Jacob Roquemore
Hayden Sellers
Anna Weaver

A Honor Roll (3.5-3.99 GPA)

6th Grade
Emma Bush
Keely Cade
Grant Cedars
Nevayah Christophe
Morgan Garcia
Lane Gray
Karyssa Griffith
Eli Hypes
Melanie Johnson
Jayce Matt
Meena Matta
Evie Nicholson
Kylon Payton
Kate Shivers
Mikayla Slaughter
Bryce Smith
Riya Weber

7th Grade
Ronald Bolton
Alexis Broadway
Mary Hannah Churchman
Kamryn Dawson
Noah Dillard
Jace Hale
Braxton Lambert
Nevaeh Mahfouz
Mackenzie Morgan
Brian Morris
Kendall Rhodes
Lindsey Stewart
Sadie Summerlin
Caden White
Lincoln Wilkerson
Adelle Williams

8th Grade
Ariana Adams
Olivia Ahbol
Jade Barfield
Ava Broadway
John Brown
Grant Dark
Kale Doffitt
Nialah Edwards
Braylee Fredieu
Jaykob Harrison
Max Hines
Juliet Hyams
Ciara Johnson
Belladonna Jones
Audrey Lafosse
Emorie Mathews
Audrey Matt
Emily Metoyer
Faith Phanor
Sean Remo
Darrell Roque
Vincent Sayles
Alexis Shaw
James Shaw
Nevaeh Silk
Brooklyn Smith

B Honor Roll (3.0-3.49)

6th Grade
Brinlee Berry
London Braxton
Cruz Christophe
Caroline Church
Kenzie Drury
Ava Ducote
Carsyn Goings
Jace Henson
Chazlyn Kennedy
Westin Key
Mathew Lonadier
Addison Mitcham
Khloe Monceaux
Emmy O’Con
Sahil Patel
Bentley Posey
Jacob Proctor
Madelyn Roquemore
Cole Spillman
Scott Stetson
Griffin Vansickle
Hunter Walker

7th Grade
Patrick Arredondo
Arwen Brown
Skylar Campa
Tripp Carr
Layla Conway
Michael French
Caylee Henry
Lakyn Holden
Reece Jackson
Walker Kiracofe
Jayden Lodrigue
Dylan Lott
Dennis Morgan
Ripplie Perkins
Kaylie Rhodes
Joshua Scribner
Jackson Smith
Joseph Stephens
Jayla Wilson

8th Grade
Sam Cade
Jefferson Dunahoe
Bryan Galyean
Ehren Guidroz
Sydnie Hatten
Hailey Jarnagin
Macey Jarnagin
Zachary Jordan
Caitlyn Martin
Keaton Mooney
Vivienne Parr
Miracle Phanor
Tristan Smith
Max Wardell
Marien White

---

St. Mary’s Catholic School
2021-2022 Term 3 Honor Roll

---

BOM is continuing our sponsorship of the Natchitoches Junior High – Frankie Ray Jackson School’s J.A.G. Program. J.A.G. (Jobs for America’s Graduates) assists 7th & 8th graders as they transition to high school. Pictured left to right: BOM’s Emily Breedlove and Sylvia Davenport, Rayonna Raphiel, Treasurer, Barbara Clark, JAG President, Allison Holmes, Vice President, Maria Cano Campos, Representative, Mariah Golston, Historian, BOM’s Katrice Below and Jacquelyn Rainwater, JAG Specialist.

---

NATCHITOCHES:
Pamela Dawne Gourdon
January 23, 1951 – March 20, 2022
Visitation: Thursday, March 24 from 5-8 pm at the Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Recitation of the Holy Rosary: Thursday, March 24 6:30 pm in theBlanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home chapel

Stephen Andrew Champagne
January 12, 1950 – March 15, 2022
Service: Saturday, March 26 at 1 pm at Beulah Methodist Church

Arthur Welch
Viewing: at 10a, March 26, 2022;  First Baptist Church, 508 Second Street, Natchitoches
Service: at 11am, March 26, 2022; First Baptist Church, 508 Second Street, Natchitoches
Mask will be required

SABINE:
Pamela D. Salter
June 20, 1959 – March 20, 2022
Service: Wednesday, March 23 at 2 pm at Little Flock Baptist Church

---

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

Northwestern State has hired its first African-American head coach in a major sport, naming 41-year-old Corey Gipson to take over the Demons’ basketball program Monday, a week after the departure of iconic 23-year head coach Mike McConathy.

Gipson comes to Northwestern after spending seven years on the Missouri State staff. He was named associate head coach 11 months after joining the Bears’ staff and during those six years, the tradition-rich program averaged 18 wins a season, including a 23-11 mark in 2021-22 that landed a National Invitation Tournament berth out of the Missouri Valley Conference.

He was a point guard for two seasons at Austin Peay in the Ohio Valley Conference, helping the Governors reach the 2003 NCAA Tournament as a junior. A native of Sikeston, Missouri, Gipson played junior college ball at Three Rivers Community College in his home state.

His coaching career began at Division II Virginia State, recruiting players who won a 2007 conference championship. He worked at UNC Greensboro, in the hometown of new NSU athletics director Kevin Bostian, from 2009-12, the last two years as associate head coach. Gipson then moved to Austin Peay as an assistant before taking the Missouri State post.

Bostian outlined his plan for a speedy search and targeted today as the date to make a hire. He cited the urgency of possible departures from NSU’s roster, filled with underclassmen led by first-team All-Southland Conference center Kendal Coleman, the Captain Shreve product who entered the portal last Monday and reportedly has about three dozen offers including from Oklahoma and Marquette.

Dealing with potential attrition, and also adding players through the portal, were primary factors in Bostian’s timetable.

Gipson will be introduced to the media and NSU supporters at 10 a.m. Wednesday at a news conference in the Lucille Mertz Hendrick Room (Room 121) inside the Friedman Student Union on the Northwestern State campus.

In the NSU athletic department’s announcement Monday, Gipson was appreciative.

“This is very humbling, first and foremost, to be able to take the helm of a program with so much history and tradition,” said Gipson. “My family and I are elated to be going to a historic community and a program where coach McConathy has built such a great legacy. He paved the way for me and my family to come in and have a chance to push that legacy forward. It is an opportunity we do not take lightly. We see it as a privilege.

“I want to thank the administration – Dr. Jones, (Director of Athletics) Kevin (Bostian), (Executive Vice President for External Affairs) Jerry (Pierce) – for trusting me to take the helm of the program.”

“As we went through the search process, it was clear Corey possessed all the qualities we desired in a coach,” Bostian said. “We look forward to him building upon the great legacy coach McConathy built here at Northwestern State. Corey has been successful at every stop in his career. He is a strong coach and recruiter, but more importantly, he has a track record of developing student-athletes into better young men on and away from the game of basketball.”

NSU president Dr. Marcus Jones said, “Corey Gipson has the professional experience and the family-oriented personal image and reputation to make him an excellent fit for the head men’s basketball coach position at Northwestern.”

He added, “I am confident that Corey will maintain the rich history and traditions of the program as coach Mike McConathy did for 23 years before his retirement and will work to guide NSU basketball to even greater success on the court and increased support from students, alumni and other fans.”

There was no immediate indication of the status of other members of the outgoing NSU basketball staff, including longtime assistants Jeff Moore and Dave Simmons. Moore, associate head coach, did interview for the vacant position last Wednesday morning.

---

There will be a regularly scheduled meeting of the Natchitoches Parish Council Monday, March 21 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Council Board Room, #211 on the 2nd Floor of the Courthouse.

Watch LIVE:

https://www.facebook.com/NPJNatLa

Agenda:

Council to confirm the appointment of Mr. Gregory Brock on the Saline Lake Game and Fish Preserve Board of Commissioners.

First Introduction of proposed Ordinances:

Council to consider an Adoption of Ordinance 009-2022 to remove section 1.11 The Recording Policy from the Natchitoches Parish Personnel Manual due to being unconstitutional and by the Revised Statute.

Public Hearings:

Council to consider an Adoption of Ordinance 006-2022 to amend, correct and re-adopt Residential Development Permit Fees of Ordinance 8-2014.

Council to consider an Adoption of Ordinance 007-2022 An Ordinance to amend the minimum acreage and requested documentation for subdividing property in Natchitoches Parish and all its participating municipalities.

Council to consider an Adoption of Ordinance 008-2022 allowing the Parish President to enter into a franchise agreement with all utility providers serving locations within Natchitoches Parish as allowed by law. And furthermore, to allocate all new franchise monies to be dedicated to the Highway fund.

Other Agenda Items:

Council to consider authorizing the Parish President to distribute a Request for Proposals for procuring the services of a geotechnical testing firm for borings and soil testing to assist the Parish Engineer in the pavement design for the resurfacing of Hart Road and Harmony Road, at an estimated cost not to exceed $20,000 and, following evaluation of the proposals received, to select the proposal that is in the Parish’s best interests based on the proposed cost and estimated delivery date, and to execute a contract with the selected firm.

---

Twenty young scholars from The Academy of Dallas Public Charter School visited Natchitoches this weekend as part of their Practicum in which they travel, learn, and try out some of the new skills they have learned. Dr. Ross F. Williams, a Natchitoches native and current Superintendent of the school, lead the tour. The students toured Roque’s Farm, NSU, The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum, and downtown Natchitoches. They also took a ride on the Cane River Queen riverboat and enjoyed meatpies while listening to a talk on entrepreneurship from the owners of the iconic Lasyone’s Restaurant.

Dr. Williams is a 1988 alumni of Natchitoches Central High School who went on to Southern University and Central Michigan University before earning his Doctorate from Saint Thomas University. He hails from a local family of business owners who were also prominent activists in the civil rights era in our city. The Academy of Dallas Public Charter School is a Pre-K through 8th grade school founded in 1998 with a sister facility in San Antonio. The school offers the regular Texas curriculum with an additional focus on teaching entrepreneurship. While in Natchitoches, the students also attended the film festival. As part of their practicum, the students are working on their own video production “The Natchitoches Experience: Legacy of a Native Son”, a film exploring the history of our city, the Williams family and the civil rights era.

The students culminated their trip as guests of Asbury United Methodist Church, the church in which Dr. Williams grew up. The Natchitoches Parish Journal extends its best wishes to these young men and women as they continue their academic journeys. We also hope that this is the first of many visits by future classes of the Academy of Dallas Public Charter School. Natchitoches people going out into the larger world and making their mark is always a joy to see.

---

Natchitoches’ Front Street was transformed into a rollicking street party as the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce’s Natchitoches Young Professionals hosted its 7th annual St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl Saturday, March 19. The popular event was back in business as over 400 pub crawlers, many in colorful costumes, walked the length of Front Street. The partygoers visited businesses along Front St. to draw a card for the event’s poker run as well as enjoy food and drink specials.

Sixteen volunteers from Natchitoches’ Womens’ Resource Center staffed the poker run stations and helped out where needed. The Center was the NYP’s Non-Profit partner for the event, garnering $1,000.00 which will be used to train a nurse in using an ultrasound machine. The additional trained nurse will mean that no woman in the parish, or surrounding area, will have to wait more than a week for an ultrasound.

The pub crawl culminated at the riverbank stage where entertainment was provided by area band “Deaf Jam”.

---

Nine North Louisiana senior scholar-athletes, including Graeme Fidalek of St. Mary’s, along with legendary retired Northwestern State football coach Sam Goodwin will be honored Thursday night at the annual National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Awards Banquet in Shreveport.

Receiving NFF Scholar-Athlete Awards and scholarship grants along with Fidalek will be Caleb Aillet of Byrd, West Monroe’s Tag Banks, Tonzaiha Bland of Logansport, Luke Gibson of Mangham, Connor Heard from Minden, Benton’s R.J. Moore and Jed Worthey III of Cedar Creek.

Evan Howe of North DeSoto is the first recipient of the KTBS/Johnny’s Pizza Bob Griffin Scholarship, named in tribute of the iconic local TV sportscaster who covered area high school football and other sports for over a half-century. Griffin was also on the local NFF chapter’s board of directors.

Head football coaches around north Louisiana nominated senior players who carry at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average, have earned all-district honors and are involved in extracurricular activities.

The event hosted by the NFF’s S.M. McNaughton Chapter of North Louisiana begins with a social hour at 6 at East Ridge Country Club in Shreveport. Tickets ($40 individual, $320 for a table of eight) are available by calling McNaughton Chapter secretary Toni Goodin at 318-347-4453.

Goodwin will receive the McNaughton chapter’s Contributions to Amateur Football Award. He is the winningest football coach in Northwestern history with 102 wins from 1983-99. His Demons won conference championships in 1984, 1988, 1997 and 1998, making FCS playoff appearances in the latter three seasons and reaching the national semifinals in 1998.

Thirty-eight of his players reached the NFL, and 22 won All-American honors, including College Football Hall of Fame member Gary Reasons. Goodwin also coached 1998 National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete winner Dr. William Broussard and two other Academic All-Americans, along with 42 all-conference selections. After ending his collegiate coaching and administrative career, his love for coaching the game returned him to prep football sidelines in Arkansas and then back in Louisiana at Pineville, Alexandria Senior High, Natchitoches Central, Lakeview and St. Mary’s.

The Pineville native is in the Southland Conference Hall of Honor, NSU’s N-Club Hall of Fame, and the hall of fame at his alma mater (Henderson State) and the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame for his playing career at Henderson and his high school coaching accomplishments in the 1970s at Little Rock-Parkview, where his teams won five state championships in the nine seasons he started the program and coached there.

The winner of the McNaughton Chapter’s Distinguished American Award is KTBS-TV general manager George Sirven, who has led KTBS as the station emerged as a significant community partner with its sponsorship of major events such as the Freedom Fest Fourth of July celebration, and promotion of many civic causes including St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Last fall, KTBS celebrated the 25th anniversary of its popular Friday Football Fever scoreboard show, which was just named Best Sports Show by the Louisiana Association of Broadcasters. The native Cuban is a naturalized American citizen who early in his television career shot high school football footage for Griffin when both worked for KSLA-TV.

Past winners of the Contribution to Amateur Football awards given by the McNaughton Chapter since 1981 include Eddie Robinson, John David Crow, Dub and Bert Jones, Joe Ferguson, Doug Williams, Jerry Byrd, Chick Childress, Red Franklin, Tommy Henry, and Griffin. Along with Byrd and Henry, Northwestern alumni Jack Clayton and Charlie Hennigan won the award, while former NSU athletic director Greg Burke was the 2012 winner and former Demon assistant coaches Don Shows (2011), Broderick Fobbs (2016), Joe Raymond Peace (2017) and Jerry Arledge (2019) were also recipients.

Among the former Distinguished American Award winners are Sen. J. Bennett Johnston, Orvis Sigler, Dr. William Bundrick, Tim Brando, James Davison, John McConathy, Billy Montgomery and Pro Football Hall of Famer Johnny Robinson. McConathy and Montgomery are NSU alumni, along with prior winners Tynes Hildebrand (1997), Walter Ledet (1999), Harry Turpin (2001), and Doug Ireland (2008).

---

The National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom accepted Magnolia and Oakland Plantations, managed by Cane River Creole National Historical Park, as two of over 700 sites, programs, and facilities within the Network. The National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom is a federal program that commemorates the stories of the men and women who risked everything for freedom and those who helped them. It honors, preserves, and promotes the history of resistance to enslavement through escape and flight worldwide.

“Magnolia and Oakland Plantations preserve powerful and emotional stories about the struggle for freedom,” said Chief of Interpretation Barbara Justice. “These are stories of courage and determination that show how enslaved people actively fought against enslavement and challenged systemic racism in our nation.”

Although written documentation is scarce, Magnolia Plantation is associated with escapes by enslaved Africans during the 1804 Insurrection from Rivière aux Cannes (Cane River), where at least 30 enslaved people left the plantations of Maria Dupre, Alexis Cloutier, Emmanuel Derbanne, Ambroise LeComte, and Louis Derbanne. These freedom seekers crossed the LeCompte (Magnolia) Plantation land enroute to Los Adaes (another Network to Freedom site) and sought freedom in Spanish Texas. The plantation is also associated with an 1863 freedom seeker named Anderson who escaped with two others named Arnold and Alfred from adjacent plantations.

Oakland Plantation is unique in that several historical records remain, helping piece together what life would have looked like at the plantation. However, the written records are primarily from the perspective of the white, planter class of the Prud’homme family and there are few mentions of the enslaved population. The few records that do remain indicate that several enslaved people escaped to freedom, just prior to the end of the Civil War. During the 1864 Red River Campaign, thirty-six enslaved men, women and children left with the U.S. soldiers as the army moved through the area. Edmo, Andrew, Charles, Cesaire, Jules Russel, Seraphine Edmonds, and Collins Page are a few of the named individuals that escaped to freedom during that time. Though there may be other undocumented freedom seekers from earlier years, there is no mention of them.

The grounds of Oakland and Magnolia Plantations are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Nearly eighty original buildings remain, many open for self-guided tours from Wednesday through Sunday, including several that are historically furnished. Park staff conduct tours of the plantation grounds daily Wednesday through Sunday. In addition, the park offers a cell phone tour. The Oakland Main House is open for self-guided tours from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The Magnolia Main House is privately owned and is not open to the public. For more information call the park at 318-352-0383, ext. 316.

---

The Natchitoches Police Department is investigating a homicide and shooting that took place late Thursday night.

On March 17, 2022 around 10:26 p.m., officers with the Natchitoches Police Department responded to the Bailey Heights neighborhood in reference to hearing multiple gunshots in the area. While responding to the area Police Communication Officers were notified that two gunshot victims were in front of a residence in the 1000 block of Amulet Street. Upon officers’ arrival they located one of the victims that was struck once by gun fire and another victim Kimanesha Carter (B/F, 28 y.o.a. of Natchitoches) suffering from several gunshot wounds in the rear of a vehicle. Kimanesha Carter was pronounced deceased by the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office as a result of her injuries and the other victim was transported to the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center for further treatment.

This investigation is ongoing and the Natchitoches Police Department will release more details as they become available.

How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:

You can report a tip anonymously by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388. All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $2,000 for the arrest of an offender.

If you would like to report suspicious activity please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101 or if you have additional information in regards to this investigation please contact Detective Trent Perritt at (318) 238-3914. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.

Corporal John Greely
Public Information Officer
Natchitoches Police Department

---

FORT WORTH, Texas – Sophomore Djimon Gumbs broke Northwestern State’s discus record twice Friday on the opening day of the TCU Invitational.

Gumbs’ third throw of 182-6 broke a more than 25-year-old record, and with the event win and school record already in hand, Gumbs bested his own mark with a 183-11 on his final throw.

NSU’s previous record holder Allen Smith tossed a 180-8 in 1996.

“DJ didn’t actually look great out there, but he grinded out some good throws,” said NSU coach Mike Heimerman. “The conditions were decent, a little bit chilly.

“But he and his brother Diamante will only get better and better.”

Diamante Gumbs fouled on his first two throws and faced the prospect of not advancing to the final three throws.

But he put those thoughts to rest by unleashing a personal record 179-5 on his third throw, which now stands third all-time in the NSU record book.

“With the twins being first and third after just the first full meet, that shows how special they are,” Heimerman said.

NSU had three of the top five discus throwers with Tarajh Hudson placing fifth with a personal best 163-5.

“Tarajh had a consistent day today, and then you have a Johnny Mitchell that finished ninth at 139-10 despite picking up the disc for only the second time since high school,” Heimerman said. “All four of those men work and feed off each other’s energy, so it will be a fun season.

“We have been looking forward to outdoor season, and this is a great start.”

The remainder of the events will be contested Saturday starting at 9:30 a.m. Running events start at 3 p.m.

---

An online phlebotomy technician training course through Northwestern State University’s Office of Electronic and Continuing Education will begin in Natchitoches on April 25.
This course is designed to teach entry-level phlebotomy skills to students interested in pursuing a career in phlebotomy. Students are required to complete classroom instruction and 50 venipunctures before they will be allowed to take the board exam.

This nine-week course begins with a mandatory face-to-face orientation class meeting in South Hall on NSU’s Natchitoches campus on April 25. There will be six weeks of online classroom instruction followed by a face-to-face hands-on portion that will meet June 6-10 in South Hall from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Once the skills/hands-on portion has been completed, students will be given two weeks to obtain their required clinical time. Clinicals will be held from June 13-24 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. and are scheduled by the instructor. Clinicals may last from two days to two weeks per student.

Upon satisfactory completion of this course, students will be eligible to take the National Board Certification Exam on-site through the American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals. This course also includes Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification through the American Heart Association. There is a possibility of random drug screening at the student’s expense at clinical sites.

Requirements for the course include proof of high school diploma, GED, or official transcript and the payment of a $150 National Board Certification and material fee to the instructor at the first face-to-face class meeting. This fee is in addition to any registration fees. Those taking the class must have a set of solid scrubs for clinical days. The scrubs can be of any color and should not be purchased after class begins. An electronic book is available at no cost and will be posted in the online class.

The fee is $950 plus the $150 National Board Certification and material fee due at the first class meeting. A minimum payment of $475 must be included with registration and does not include the material fee or board fee. The remaining balance must be paid prior to Monday, Monday, June 6.

For more information call (800) 376-2422 or (318) 357-6355.

---

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center once again has been honored with the prestigious Quality Texas Foundation (QTF) Governor’s Award. The QTF recognizes the best organizations regarding best business practices following the National Malcolm Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. QTF gives the Governor’s Award for the best organizations in Texas, Puerto Rico, Missouri, Kansas, Louisiana, and a part of Oklahoma annually. This year QTF recognized Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) as one of the two top award recipients, and the only healthcare organization to earn this distinction.

NRMC was chosen for being a role model organization that demonstrates a strong dedication to quality, continuous improvement, and high performance. Specifically, QTF noted that NRMC was recognized for the highest level of quality and for exceptional performance in all areas of organizational management: leadership, strategic planning, customer focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge management, workforce focus, operations focus and results.

“We are honored the Quality Texas Foundation is recognizing us for a second time after having received the Governor’s Award in 2018. Yet, receiving the highest honor is not about the award per se or winning. Rather this award serves as an affirmation that our organization is heading in the right direction,” noted Kirk Soileau, Chief Executive Officer of NRMC. “While we still have much work to do, we are firmly committed to our goals. We understand that the journey to ZERO Patient Harm and our aspiration to be a sustainable TOP 100 Hospital nationally is a marathon and not a sprint.”

“What is most humbling about receiving the TQF Governor’s Award this year is the fact that NRMC stayed the course over the past 26 months,” Soileau noted. “We have an amazing team who has continued to expand services year-over-year despite the global pandemic affecting both our community and state. If there is a positive aspect of the pandemic for NRMC, it is the fact that we have taken our community engagement and alignment to the highest level in our history. NRMC was the calm in the storm that the community could rely on. Thus, our role is even bigger as we strive to further improve the health and wellness of our region.”

The NRMC team will be celebrated at QTF’s next scheduled conference in June 2022.

About Quality Texas
Quality Texas helps businesses, hospitals, schools, government agencies and non-profits improve performance. QTF educates, trains, assesses, provides feedback, and recognizes organizations committed to a journey of excellence. Quality Texas encourages use of the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence and other methods that drive efficiency and effectiveness. QTF’s work saves jobs, improves communities, and creates a stronger state and nation, and ultimately a better world for mankind. For more information about Quality Texas, visit http://www.quality-texas.org or call the Quality Texas office at (512) 656-8946.

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.

CONTACT: Cathy Jacobs, Director of Physician/Community Relations 318.214.4513

---