The Natchitoches Farmers Market was the scene of an intense culinary battle on Saturday, May 25. The Natchitoches Farmers Market, a popular local tradition, hosted the fifth annual “Battle of the Badges” cookoff between the Natchitoches Fire, Police and Sheriff’s Departments. The contest featured chefs from the three organizations cooking dishes based on items available at the farmers’ market. The first responder chefs roamed the market looking for ingredients and sides from the many vendors. It was a hard-fought contest worthy of a hit cooking show as firefighters, deputies and police officers worked furiously to complete their meal before the clock ran out.

The judges had a hard time indeed picking a winner from three sets of superbly cooked dishes with some really creative presentations.  After some debate and extensive tasting, the judges named the Natchitoches Sheriff’s Office this year’s champion chefs, unseating the reigning champs from the Police department. 

The schools of the Natchitoches Parish School District combined talents to produce “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” at NSU’s Theater West Friday and Saturday, May 24-25. The production marks the first play produced by the school system in recent memory. It was to be a wonderful start!  Parish public school students in grades 4 through 12 were eligible to participate. The play was presented to a full house for each performance and is the first of what will hopefully be many more theatrical performances in the coming years.

“You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” was a truly delightful performance! The children of our parish are a talented and capable bunch. A strong theater program will be another avenue of excellence and opportunity for them. The Natchitoches Parish Journal would like to commend all of the dedicated faculty, parents and volunteers who gave this opportunity to our young people.

The production was dedicated to the memory of Mr. William Hymes who was a major supporter of music and the arts in education. Well done ladies and gentlemen!

2024 Lakeview High School alumni and FFA member Naeer Barker was cast as Linus in the recent production of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown”. His work ethic and ability in that role was to open a few doors as the NSU CAPA people helping with the production took notice of him. Naeer Barker became the first Lakeview High School Alumni to earn a Theater Scholarship from NSU’s prestigious School of Creative and Performing Arts. Combined with his TOPS award, his collegiate future is assured. Hard work pays off!

Naeer’s membership in Lakeview’s FFA chapter under FFA advisor Ms. Sarah Mallette was to prove fortuitous. Ms. Mallette assigned him an extemporaneous speech for FFA. One thing led to another, and that led Naeer to taking part in the school district’s first theater production in years.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes to congratulate Mr. Naeer Barker on both his TOPS award and earning the first NSU Theater Scholarship awarded to a Lakeview grad. We are looking forward to seeing great things from you in the coming years!

Natchitoches City Council will have a pre-council meeting on Tuesday, May 28 beginning at 5 p.m. and ending at 5:30 p.m. to discuss non-agenda items. The City Council meeting will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month and will be reserved to only items on the Agenda.  The public is invited to both the pre-council meetings and council meetings with the understanding that items not on the agenda will not be discussed at the scheduled council meetings, but the public is welcome to discuss any topic at the pre-council meetings.  The City Council Meetings are held at the Natchitoches City Council Chambers, located at 716 Second St. in Natchitoches.                                                                                                                                                                                                   

AGENDA:

1. CALL TO ORDER 

2. INVOCATION 

3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 

4. READING AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF MAY 13, 2024. 

5. PROCLAMATION: 

#035 Elie Proclamation Declaring May 2024 As Older Americans Month In The City Of Natchitoches 

6. ORDINANCES – FINAL: 

#011 Elie Ordinance Authorizing The Mayor Of The City Of Natchitoches To Award The Bid For Water Treatment Facility Improvements, Phase 1 (Bid No. 0667) 

#013 Harrington Fifth Supplemental Bond Ordinance Authorizing The Issuance By The City Of Natchitoches, State Of Louisiana, Of Its, Taxable Utilities Revenue Bonds, Series 2024, In An Amount Of Two Million Seven Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,700,000) Prescribing The Form, Terms And Provisions Of Said Bonds; Providing For The Payment Thereof; Entering Into Certain Other Covenants And Agreements In Connection With The Security And Payment Of Said Bonds; Selling Said Bonds To The Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund; And Authorizing The Execution Of A Loan And Pledge Agreement And Other Loan Documents With The Louisiana Department Of Health; Providing For 

The Delivery Of The Bonds To Said Department; And Providing For Other Matters In Connection Therewith. 

7. ORDINANCES – INTRODUCTION 

#014 Petite Ordinance Declaring Certain Buildings Unsafe And Recommending That Same Be Demolished Or Put Into Repair To Comply With The Building Code, Authorizing Notice To Be Served, Fixing Hearing Date And Appointing Curator To Represent Absentees 

8. RESOLUTIONS: 

#036 Smith Resolution Approving The Execution Of The Contract By And Between The State Of Louisiana, Division Of Administration, Office Of Community Development, And The City Of Natchitoches For The FY 2023 Louisiana Community Development Block Grant – In The Amount Up To $1,142,566.00 For Street Improvements Within The City Of Natchitoches 

#037 Nielsen Resolution Approving A Cooperative Endeavor Agreement Between The City Of Natchitoches And The State Of Louisiana, Office Of Community Development For South Natchitoches Drainage Improvements And Further Providing With Respect Thereto 

9. ANNOUNCEMENTS: 

The next scheduled City Council meeting will be June 10, 2024. 

The regularly scheduled City Council Meeting for Monday, May 27, 2024  was re-scheduled to Tuesday, May 28, 2024 due to Memorial Day. 

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

It added up for St. Mary’s and Dennis Breland.

He’s a certified math teacher who has retired, but isn’t tired. In fact, he taught as a substitute for a couple of months this spring up at Mansfield High School

He’s also a certified winner as a high school baseball coach.

The Tigers needed a new baseball boss after Marty Dewees departed on the heels of two district championships and 40 wins in his two seasons. And St. Mary’s School wanted an educator with credentials like Breland’s.

In fact, St. Mary’s principal Stephen Wren had tried to convince Breland to accept a math teaching post for the last couple of years.

Last week, the timing was right. Friday, St. Mary’s announced the hiring of Breland, with 35 years of coaching experience including being part of the Tigers’ 2010 state baseball championship coaching staff under Jeramie Hale, stepping away after the following season when St. Mary’s was state runner-up.

Breland said he wasn’t looking for a coaching job, but this was a well-timed fit. He last coached in high school over a decade ago.

“I did some coaching two summers ago with my son (in travel ball), and realized I still had a desire to coach. When I had the right opportunity to coach and teach, I decided I’d do it,” he said.

Being away from high school baseball for a dozen years is not a big concern from the coaching aspect, he said. However, there’s a key component that he’s diving into, after only having observed how the power point-bracketing for playoffs, and the Select/Non-Select divisions, have become standards since he last manned a coaching box at St. Mary’s.

“Baseball’s going to be baseball. But scheduling the correct way so you can maximize your power points, get a decent seed and have a better chance in the playoffs, that’s a major priority now and wasn’t a factor 12 years ago,” said Breland. “That’s the adjustment for me.”

Non-district games are vital to that goal, he said.

“If I don’t have enough non-district opportunities to schedule, then it’s tough for us to raise our stock. We’ve got to play up, but play games where we have real opportunities to pick up power points with wins,” said Breland.

While assessing the 2025 schedule is vital, Breland is more patient about getting a good grasp of who will be taking the diamond for the Tigers next spring.

“I know absolutely nothing at this point. I met with the parents and some players last week as an introduction, and want to have another meeting next week. A lot of these are playing travel ball. I’d like to play a few games this summer, but if I can’t, I understand, and I’ll get out and watch all I can.

“It won’t be that big a deal. I’ll put in what I know will be successful, and I’ll develop these kids to play the way I want them to play.”

As his Tiger coaching tenure resumes, the vibe is positive and confident.

“I’m excited. The parents and the kids are excited,” said Breland. “It’s going to take us a little while to get to where we want to be, but we’ll get there.”

He graduated from Louisiana College in 1987 and earned his Masters of Education from Northwestern State University in 2017. Along with coaching, he will be teaching upper level math and will be disciplinarian for grades 7-12, said the St. Mary’s announcement.

Local historians collaborated to trace the roots and evolution of the Jewish community in and around Natchitoches with the research presented at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in the monthly Lunchtime Lagniappe program held Friday.

Kevin Shannahan, a self-described history buff and well-known local photographer, worked with Donna Baker of the Cammie G. Henry Research Center at Northwestern State University’s Watson Library and other sources to develop the material for an interesting 45-minute presentation.

An appreciative and inquisitive audience took in Shannahan’s talk and some shared additional facts and memories supplementing what he discovered in museum archives and public records.

Did you know that one of the original 53 Jewish people to settle in Natchitoches, beginning in 1849, was the driving force behind the creation of what is today Northwestern State University?

Leopold Caspari arrived in Natchitoches at the age of 19 and overcame modest beginnings to rapidly emerge as a business and civic leader who became a Louisiana state senator. He authored the bill signed into law in 1884 that created Louisiana Normal School, the most lasting of many impactful accomplishments in his life.

This was just one of a series of fascinating stories Shannahan shared with the audience. For more information, contact Lunchtime Lagniappe coordinator Scott Williams at the museum (318-357-2492). Lunchtime Lagniappe is a free monthly program.

Museum hours are 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday, Admission charges top at $6 with discounted rates available for seniors, youth and military personnel. Student groups can receive free admission when arranged in advance.

Lannie Gistarb was born and raised in Natchitoches.  She has been with City Bank for 5 months as a Paying and Receiving Teller, II.  Lannie has been promoted to Customer Service Representative for the City Bank at the Keyser Avenue Branch.

She is married to Marvin Gistarb Jr., and she is the proud mother of 3-year-old daughter, Marlie.  In her spare time, Lannie finds joy in traveling and spending quality time with her family and friends.  Lannie is excited to continue her career with City Bank and Trust Co.

Louisiana State Police has been made aware of a defect in Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) stickers issued for the year 2026. Upon initial adhesion to a vehicle windshield, the “26” sticker has a yellow background. Due to sun exposure, the sticker may potentially fade from yellow to clear or white.

Individuals who have received 2026 MVI stickers from January 1, 2024, until the present date may experience fading. It is important to note that despite the fading, these MVI stickers will remain valid. No action is required by the vehicle owner. The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) is aware of this issue, and is working to replace the current unissued inventory.

Northwestern State University received approval from the Louisiana Board of Regents to offer a Master of Social Work degree.  The program will be offered completely online and will build upon NSU’s existing Bachelor of Social Work that graduates about 50 students per year.  

“The MSW program will help address the dearth of the mental health workforce and services in Louisiana. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 3.4 million people in Louisiana live in a community that does not have enough mental health professionals such as social workers,” said Dr. Susan Campbell, interim chair of NSU’s Department of Social Work.  “The mission of the MSW is to develop clinically trained social work professionals to meet the growing need for practitioners in our regional and national work force, with particular emphasis on providing trauma-informed services in rural central and western Louisiana.” 

Dr. MaryAnne Candley, MSW, a Licensed Master Social Worker, will serve as the program coordinator.  Candley joined the NSU Social Work faculty as an assistant professor in 2019. In addition to teaching and advising, Candley is also the coordinator of online studies where her duties include supporting and enhancing the online learning environment and experience for social work students. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work and earned a Ph.D. in human services with an emphasis on social and community services. 

“Social work is a very rewarding career in that social workers have the opportunity to be change agents,” she said.  “We work with individuals, families, groups, communities and organizations, so social workers enjoy the ability to effect change in whatever setting is most comfortable for them.” 

Before joining the NSU faculty, Candley worked with an interdisciplinary group that focused on birth inequities. She also engages in practice as a medical social worker. Previous practice experience also includes working with the homeless and elderly populations, and with children and families.  

“Across the board higher education is engaging with different learners than the traditional, 18-year-old student,” Candley said. “Many people are seeking degrees while actively in the throes of employment, raising children and assisting elderly or ailing parents or loved ones. Online learning allows people, regardless of their circumstances, to continue to meet their competing demands while also pursuing higher education.” 

Campbell said the Social Work Department will work with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) Board of Accreditation for the MSW program to become nationally accredited. The timeline for accreditation is approximately three years with a likely approval date of February 2028.   

The CSWE accreditation process will allow the Master of Social Work program to back-date accreditation to its initial start date of August 2025. Students who graduate from the MSW program before 2028 will have to wait until February 2028 for the accreditation to be granted and backdated. Therefore, graduating MSWs prior to May 2028 would not be able to pursue licensure until official accreditation approval is given.  

“To maintain the integrity of the MSW program and support the professional development of our students, the Department of Social Work will welcome its inaugural MSW class in stages,” Campbell said. “Stage one will be a part time, traditional MSW program, with students beginning their coursework in August 2025 with an anticipated graduation date of May 2028. Stage two will be a two-year, full time MSW program in which students begin their coursework in August of 2026 and graduate in May of 2028. The final stage will be the one-year Advanced Standing program with students beginning in August of 2027 and graduating in May of 2028.” 

Most employment data and job prediction statistics identify an increase in the need for social workers, Candley said. There are only three accredited MSW programs in public institutions.  

“NSU is uniquely situated, as the central and southwestern portions of the state do not currently offer any MSW programs,” she said. “While this program will be offered completely online, our geographic location and focus on trauma will help prepare students to work in these underserved areas as well as nationally.” 

The push for approval of the master’s in Social Work at NSU began years ago, spearheaded by the late Dr. Claudia Triche, then department head, who advocated for the creation of a Master of Social Work degree at NSU.   

“Social work is a profession that assists people to improve their lives by helping them deal with their social environments, relationships, personal and emotional problems, disabilities and resources for life, such as shelter, food and employment,” Campbell said. “Social workers are employed in the areas of children and family services, schools, health care, mental health, substance abuse and prevention, employee assistance programs (EAPs), as well as in federal, state, or local policymaking along with other sectors. While the bachelor’s degree in social work is the minimum requirement for entry into the social work profession and qualifies one for a number of entry-level jobs, the master’s degree (MSW) is necessary for many positions, including most in health care, K-12 schools, mental health and in supervisory and administrative positions.” 

Information on NSU’s Department of Social Work is available at https://www.nsula.edu/socialwork/.   

By Brad Dison

A three-week investigation by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office along with assistance from the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and Winn Parish K-9 Team is still ongoing in connection with the recent thefts of all-terrain vehicles in Natchitoches Parish according to Sheriff Stuart Wright.

NPSO Patrol Operations Bureau responded to NATCOM 911 Center reports on April 30 of two-all terrain vehicles valued at approximately $18,000 being stolen in the 1200 block of Hwy. 494, South of Natchitoches.

Deputies arrived on scene, spoke with the complainant and learned two all-terrain vehicles, a 2021 Honda Rubicon, and a 2013 Honda Rancher had been taken during the night.

Deputies gathered information for an offense incident report, photographed and processed the crime scene for investigative purposes.

The case was turned over to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau.

Detectives entered the stolen ATVs into the National Crime Information Center as stolen.

As the investigation progressed, detectives learned through confidential sources that one of the ATVs was for sale on a social media platform.

Detectives also learned that individuals were planning on selling one of the ATVs in the Ajax area during the evening of May 2.

After learning of this information, Natchitoches sheriff’s detectives, Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force Agents, patrol deputies along with assistance from Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Detectives and the Sabine Parish Tactical Narcotics Team set-up surveillance in the area.

On May 2, the team intercepted a 2011 GMC pickup truck on Hwy. 174 near Cowboy’s Truck Stop as individuals were attempting to unload an ATV. Detectives moved in and took three suspects into custody.  Three other suspects fled the scene in the vehicle. Deputies then engaged in a short pursuit with the vehicle crashing in the parking lot of a nearby sawmill.

Two suspects were taken into custody while one remained on the run near a wooded area.

DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Deputies with a K-9 and drone responded to assist. The Winn Parish K-9 Tracking Team also responded.

The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office issued a social media advisory post informing the public of the incident asking residents to secure their vehicles and call the NPSO if they observed anyone acting suspicious in the area. NPSO Deputies brought all-terrain vehicles to the scene to aid in the search.

The multi-agency search with the use of K-9s and drones lasted throughout the night was unsuccessful in finding the last suspect. Detectives recovered and confirmed the all-terrain vehicle to be the Honda Rubicon reported stolen near Natchitoches April 30. Detectives also seized a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic handgun from the interior of the vehicle.

Detectives arrested:

*Ryan J. Babineaux, 19, of 220 Fairgrounds Rd. in Natchitoches, transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with Illegal Possession of Stolen Things and Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles.

*16-year-old Natchitoches juvenile charged with Illegal Possession of Stolen Things and later transferred to Ware Juvenile Center in Coushatta.

*Matthew Daniels, 17, 100 block of Mary Dr. in Natchitoches, transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with Illegal Possession of Stolen Things and Resisting an Officer.

*Kamen Roll, 17, of the 1100 block of Berry Ave. in Natchitoches, transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with Illegal Possession of Stolen Things and Illegal Possession of a Handgun.

Detectives say charges are still pending on two suspects including the suspect that fled the scene at Ajax.

Detectives say as a result of the investigation and interviews they were also able to recover the Honda Rancher reported stolen during the same time as the Rubicon at an undisclosed location just south of Natchitoches.

Detectives say this is an active and ongoing investigation as they attempt to identify, locate, and arrest other suspects involved in recent thefts of all-terrain vehicles in Natchitoches Parish.

Sheriff Stuart Wright thanks the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, Winn Parish K-9 Tracking Team and all NPSO Deputies that took part in this ongoing investigation.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

If you have any information contact the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau at 357-7830.

Governor Jeff Landry signed into law Act 131 (HB 208) on May 22, which addresses domestic violence offenses.

The legislation was passed unanimously by both the House of Represents and the Senate to address domestic violence, including battery of a dating partner and domestic abuse by strangulation.

The revised law enhances the penalties for domestic violence when strangulation occurs and results in serious bodily injury to up to 50 years of incarceration without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

The Louisiana District Attorney’s Association supported the legislation, which was authored by Rep. Debbie Villio, chairwoman of the House Administration of Criminal Justice Committee.

District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington and other district attorneys attended the governor’s bill signing ceremony at the Capitol in Baton Rouge.

“This legislation provides prosecutors with the tools needed to address these serious domestic violence crimes that are tragically on the rise. In 2018, we had zero cases of strangulation domestic violence in Natchitoches Parish and have averaged about six cases per year since. However, through May 2024 we have 10 cases, a dramatic increase in domestic violence in our community. In these cases, the victims can be only seconds from death.

“Our victims deserve protection from their aggressors and they deserve justice in our courts. This legislation is major step toward creating safer communities and holding offenders accountable. Remember that help is available, and no one should suffer in silence. If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please seek assistance from the provided resources.

“Our district attorneys appreciate Chairwoman Villio for her diligent effort in ensuring this critical legislation was enacted. And, we thank Governor Landry for his support of the bill his ongoing commitment to the criminal justice and the rule of law in Louisiana,” said District Attorney Harrington.

Domestic violence continues to be a persistent reality in all communities. There are resources available for confidential help. A confidential 24 hour statewide hotline is available at (888) 411-1333 or text “Start” to 88788 for more assistance. Additionally, the District Attorney’s Office can be reached during office hours at (318) 357-2214. For emergencies and immediate medical or law enforcement response, please dial 911. 

As the United States commemorates Memorial Day, paying tribute to those who have given their lives in military service to our nation, Americans will take a long holiday weekend with most businesses and institutions closed on Monday.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal team is taking a break as well, pausing our normal Monday publication.

The Journal will resume our free news and sports coverage with our Tuesday morning edition.

We hope you and yours enjoy the holiday, and keep in your thoughts those brave men and women throughout our nation’s history who through their military service and valor made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our American way of life.

There has been a welcome air of excitement and anticipation around Lakeview High School lately. Lakeview hosted a BBQ Meet and Greet Thursday, May 23 at the school. The event was held in order to introduce incoming Lakeview principal Chase Stepp to the Gator community.  Approximately 100 parents and community members joined Lakeview faculty, Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloi and school board members in a town hall style meeting catered by some superb BBQ.

Principal Chase Stepp is a 2014 NSU alumni and has spent all ten years of his teaching career in the Natchitoches parish public schools. He taught and coached at Lakeview and Marthaville. He served as vice-principal at Marthaville and Natchitoches Junior High School before becoming Lakeview’s new leader.

Chase Stepp is married to fellow NSU alumna Amy Stepp. Amy serves as the master teacher at L.P. Vaughn but is perhaps more well known in her other role as NSU’s Cheerleading Coach. Both Chase and Amy are former NSU cheerleaders. They have been married for ten years and have a son and daughter, both attending Natchitoches public schools.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal extends its best wishes to Mr. Stepp and the Gator Nation for a successful school year. We are looking forward to good things happening!

How long have you waited to hear the great news that “The veggies are ready!”  Farmer Jason Anderson has opened Anderson’s Produce for the 2024 season with an abundance of fresh, delicious fruits and vegetables.  So “Come and get ‘em!”

Anderson’s Produce has an abundance of fresh squash, onions, snap beans, and potatoes grown in the rich fertile soil of south Red River Parish.  And there are more coming in every day.

And Farmer Anderson said, “This year we have an abundant crop of ripe, juicy peaches.  There have been a few slim years, but this year’s crop is the best I’ve seen in years.”  You know you want them, so come and get peaches picked today at the peak of freshness.

Now open for the 2024 season, Anderson’s Produce on Highway 174, just off I-49 and La 1.  Click on https://andersonsproduceandplantfarm.com or phone 318-932-1432 or come by the farm.  The freshest fruits and vegetables are ready for you at Anderson’s Produce.