The Service League of Natchitoches, in conjunction with the Cane River National Heritage Area, hosted Reading on the River, an annual literacy event for children that has become a beloved local tradition, on March 8. Local university and civic leaders took turns reading to children throughout the day. Northwestern’s Vic the Demon and the students of NSU’s Presidential Leadership Program were also on hand to meet the children and pass out books.
Families were treated to free books for every age group. The Natchitoches community made this possible by participating in Service League book drives.
Families also enjoyed literacy themed crafts and activities as they strolled through over 20 booths sponsored by area day care facilities, CASA, the Army Corps of Engineers, and local businesses, educational and civic groups.
The Service League of Natchitoches has been a fixture of our area’s philanthropic scene for the past 75 years. The group boasts over 175 active members and sustainers (former members who have completed their six-year terms.) The annual Reading on the River event is just one of the many service projects this phenomenal group of women do in order to make our community a better place to live.
St. Mary’s Catholic School is holding tryouts for its Varsity Competition Cheer Team, open to experienced cheerleaders entering 8th-12th grade.
Tryout Registration Deadline: Monday, March 17 by 12 PM Contact: Barbara Jackson at (318) 332-0208 to register.
Registered participants will receive digital tryout material via text at 3 PM on March 17. Candidates must learn and perfect the material independently. A brief material review will be held on Wednesday, March 19, from 3-3:30 PM, with tryouts beginning promptly at 3:30 PM.
IN THE FAMILY COURT OF THE FOURTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT
Plaintiff,
NOTICE OF HEARING
vs.
Case No. 2024-DR-17-237
COMPTON JOHNSON, BRANDY QUINTON, AND ERRICK BENNETT
Defendant.
NOTICE OF HEARING
A final hearing has been set in the above-entitled action on April 22, 2025 at 10:30am. You are hereby notified to be present in Dillon Family Court located at 301 West Main Street. Dillon, SC. 29536.
Over 1,000 people came to enjoy a morning of family fun and shopping along Natchitoches’ iconic brick street as downtown Natchitoches played host to two beloved local traditions that have each graced our community for over 20 years on March 8. The Annual Bloomin’ on the Bricks featured fun crafts and activities for the little ones, the parish library’s games and prizes, and a variety of gardening vendors for the Green Thumbs among us. The popular event was a great way to kick off the spring season.
Alongside Bloomin’ on the Bricks, the Natchitoches art community celebrated its Annual Art Along the Bricks. This celebration of creativity featured The Natchitoches Art Gallery, faculty, and students from NSU’s art department as well as vendors in a variety of artistic styles.
Natchitoches’ wildly popular Indigeaux Tribal Fusion Belly Dance Troupe also performed several pieces for the delighted crowd. The troupe was accompanied by the Rhythm Warriors, a drumming group consisting of Veterans and friends. The two groups put on a Celtic themed performance.
March 10, 2025, is a day marked by a confluence of significant observances and historical events, offering opportunities for both reflection and celebration. Among the notable commemorations are Harriet Tubman Day, National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and National Pack Your Lunch Day. Additionally, this date holds historical significance with events such as the first successful test of the telephone by Alexander Graham Bell.
Harriet Tubman Day: Honoring a Legacy of Courage and Freedom
Harriet Tubman Day is observed annually on March 10 to honor the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, an iconic figure in American history. Born into slavery around 1822, Tubman escaped bondage and became a leading abolitionist, orchestrating the rescue of approximately 70 enslaved individuals through the Underground Railroad. Her unwavering commitment to freedom and equality has cemented her status as a symbol of courage and resilience.
In 2025, various events and educational programs are planned nationwide to commemorate Tubman’s contributions. Museums and cultural centers are hosting exhibitions detailing her life, while schools incorporate lessons on her impact within broader discussions of civil rights and social justice. These initiatives aim to inspire current and future generations by highlighting Tubman’s enduring legacy.
National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: Promoting Health and Empowerment
Established to raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls, National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day emphasizes the importance of prevention, testing, and treatment. According to recent data, women account for nearly 20% of new HIV diagnoses in the United States, underscoring the need for targeted outreach and education.
On March 10, 2025, health organizations and community groups are organizing events such as free HIV testing clinics, educational workshops, and virtual seminars. These efforts focus on reducing stigma, promoting safe practices, and empowering women and girls to take charge of their health. By fostering open dialogues and providing resources, these initiatives strive to decrease the incidence of HIV/AIDS and improve the quality of life for those affected.
National Pack Your Lunch Day: Encouraging Healthy and Sustainable Eating Habits
National Pack Your Lunch Day encourages individuals to prepare and bring their own meals to work or school, promoting healthier eating habits and environmental sustainability. Packing lunch allows for greater control over nutritional content and portion sizes, contributing to overall well-being. Additionally, it reduces reliance on single-use packaging, aligning with eco-friendly practices.
In 2025, nutritionists and culinary experts are sharing creative recipes and tips to make packed lunches both nutritious and enjoyable. Social media campaigns invite participants to showcase their meal preparations, fostering a sense of community and shared commitment to health. Employers and schools are also supporting the initiative by providing resources and incentives to encourage participation.
Historical Milestone: Alexander Graham Bell’s Pioneering Telephone Test
March 10 also marks a pivotal moment in technological history. On this day in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell conducted the first successful test of the telephone, uttering the famous words to his assistant, “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you.” This groundbreaking invention revolutionized global communication, laying the foundation for the interconnected world we experience today.
To commemorate this achievement, technology museums and educational institutions are hosting special exhibits and interactive displays showcasing the evolution of communication devices. These programs aim to educate the public about the profound impact of Bell’s invention and inspire appreciation for technological advancements.
March 10, 2025, serves as a multifaceted day of remembrance and action. From honoring the heroic efforts of Harriet Tubman and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS among women and girls to encouraging healthy lifestyle choices through packed lunches and reflecting on monumental technological innovations, the day offers diverse avenues for engagement. By participating in these observances, individuals can contribute to a collective recognition of past achievements and current challenges, fostering a more informed and connected society.
Wesley “Wes” Matthew Jones, born on February 14, 1979, in Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away unexpectedly yet peacefully on February 22, 2025, in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He was 46 years old and a life-long resident of Natchitoches. A funeral service will be held in his honor on March 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Natchitoches, located at 508 2nd St., Natchitoches, LA 71457, with Rev. Tommy Rush officiating. Friends and family are warmly invited to a visitation from 11:00 AM until service time at First Baptist. Interment will follow the funeral service at Calvary Baptist Church Cemetery in Natchitoches, located at 312 LA 3191, under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home. Fellowship at the Calvary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall will immediately follow interment.
Wes was a loving son, brother, grandson, and uncle. He is survived by his devoted parents, Ronald Carl Jones and Donna Lattier Jones of Natchitoches, Louisiana; his sister, Brittany Jones Ionescu, and her husband, Stefan, of Boerne, Texas; his brother, Brad L. Jones, and his wife, Christin, of Shreveport, Louisiana; as well as his beloved nieces and nephews, Juliana Ionescu, Daniel Ionescu, Camden Jones, and Brynn Jones. Wes also leaves behind caring aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will remember him fondly.
Wes was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Olen A. Jones and Jewell LaCaze Jones of Natchitoches, Louisiana; his maternal grandmother, Jacqueline Daigle Lattier Hodge of Bossier City, Louisiana; and his maternal grandfather, Gary Edward Lattier of Bossier City, Louisiana.
Wes accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior at the tender age of ten. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Natchitoches and the Brothers and Sisters in Christ Sunday School Class.
Throughout his life, Wes demonstrated a strong work ethic working at various jobs over the years. Wes attended NSU Lab School and graduated from Natchitoches Central in 1997. He was a talented athlete in his earlier years with a love for baseball, basketball, and tennis. He was honored to serve as a Louisiana Boys State Delegate and a knight with the Mystic Krewe de St. Denis. In 2002, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Communication from Northwestern State University where he was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. His dedication to his craft was evident during his time at NSU, where he worked as a student employee at the school’s Informational Services. Following his graduation, he continued to serve the institution as a graphic designer in Informational Services as a full-time employee followed by a time in the University Physical Plant Services until taking an early retirement due to health reasons following cancer treatment. At the time of his passing, he was a shop assistant for Regional Construction.
Wes was not only intelligent and hardworking but also embodied the qualities of a true gentleman. He loved life and brought joy to those around him. He was a talented artist who found joy in drawing, and he had an exceptional ear for music, enjoying the melodies produced by his guitars and his proficiency at the piano. In addition to his artistic pursuits, Wes had a passion for nature. He enjoyed Saturday morning squirrel hunts with his dad and loved fishing. However, his most significant passion lay in entomology. From an early age, he cultivated an impressive knowledge and collection of insects, reflecting his fascination with the natural world.
Honored to serve as pallbearers are his Sunday school classmates Gary Conlay and Bernie Harris; and his Regional Construction co-workers Christian “Cain” Hamous, Brandon Hood, Christopher Sapiá, and Johnny Williams. Honorary pallbearers are his remaining co-workers at Regional Construction and members of his Sunday school class.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Wes may be made to the American Cancer Society in Louisiana, PO Box 83930, Baton Rouge, LA 70884; or FAUNA (Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals), PO Box 2552, Natchitoches, LA 71457, or online at http://www.npfauna.org/donate/.
Though he is no longer with us, his spirit and love will continue to reside within the hearts of all who knew him. The family extends their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to those who offered unwavering friendship, love, and support to Wes through the years and to his family during this sad time.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4
Kathy Michell Conlay, 46, of Ashland, Louisiana, was welcomed home into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, March 8, 2025 surrounded by her family and friends.
Visitation for Kathy, will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home in Coushatta, Louisiana. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Mark Crook officiating and Bro. Ronnie assisting. Interment will follow at Weaver Cemetery in Chestnut, Louisiana.
Kathy was born on September 11, 1978 in Natchitoches, Louisiana and passed away on March 8, 2025. Kathy was a true daddy’s girl. Some of her most treasured childhood memories were with her daddy hunting and fishing. As the years passed, her bond with her mother grew even stronger. Her mom was truly her best friend and confidant.
Kathy’s heart of gold shone through in everything she did. Her kindness and love knew no bounds, and nowhere was this more evident than in the way she welcomed OakLynn’s father, Pablo, into her life as her own son.
Kathy was affectionally called “Nonna” by her pride and joy, her granddaughter, OakLynn Ann. To know Kathy was to love her. She had a heart of gold, a laughter and a smile that was contagious and the kindest spirit. Her memory will live on in the lives of her family and friends. She will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Kathy was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Terry and “Chuck” Holland and paternal grandparents Nelson and Dorothy Conlay and her special friend, Ronnie Dowden.
Left to cherish her memories are her daughter KatLynn Conlay (Pablo), granddaughter OakLynn Conlay, parents, Donna and Richie Horn and Nelson and Connie Conlay, brothers Casey Cobb (Kevin), Randall Quick (Misty), and sister Crystal Stiles (Clint) along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers will be Randall Quick, Dakota Holland, Carson Holland, Cody Holland, James Freeman, Kolby Meshell, Ben Wood and Jim Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Terry Wayne Holland, Thomas Holland, Joe Holland, Fred Holland, Jimmy Horn and Jack Rushing.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the nurses and staff at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center for their compassionate care and support.
“Those who have the least need us the most.” Words often spoken by the late Claudie Moore Triche, former chair of Northwestern State University’s Department of Social Work.
Friends, family and colleagues gathered March 6 to offer reflections on Triche and her legacy that extended far beyond NSU, and to announce the endowment of the Claudia Triche Memorial Scholarship in Social Work that honors her lifelong achievements.
“That was what social work meant to Claudia,” said Byron McKinney, associate professor and chair of the Triche Scholarship committee. “We’re following Claudia’s vision. She wanted everybody to have a chance to go to school, especially her vets, her clients and the students that she loved so much here at Northwestern.”
The scholarship was created in 2022 to benefit a student pursuing a degree in social work. It is the first endowed scholarship for the Department of Social Work, according to Department Chair Dr. Susan Campbell, and reached the amount of $10,877 through donations to the NSU Foundation.
Triche was a native of Shreveport who graduated from NSU with a degree in social work in 1970. She attended Louisiana State University, earning a Master’s of Social Work degree in 1972 and Licensed Clinical Social Worker certification in 1973. She began her tenure on faculty at NSU in 1974 as the director of field internships for the Department of Social Work, later to become professor and chair of the department.
While educating hundreds of students, Triche operated her own private practice and was a contract social worker for the Veterans Affairs Office assisting Vietnam veterans for over three decades. In addition to her work in higher education and Veteran Affairs, she advocated for thousands of children, families and individuals.
Triche worked for years to gain approval for NSU to offer a Master of Social Work degree, which was approved last year and will begin this fall. She wrote millions of dollars in grants, including the original Title IV-E grant that supports child welfare education and training. NSU remains the lead university in Louisiana for that scholarship program, helping more than 800 individuals become child welfare professionals. She retired from NSU as Professor Emeritus in 2013 after 39 years of service. She passed away in 2020.
Pictured: The family of the late Claudia Triche, former chair of NSU’s Department of Social Work, gathered to celebrate the endowment of the Claudie Triche Memorial Scholarship in Social Work. From left are grandsons Patrick and Keegan Loveless, daughter Kathryn Triche Loveless, sister Becky Keenan, son Eric Triche and his wife Karyn Triche.
Natchitoches Junior High’s JAG program hosted an inspiring Win at Life assembly on March 7 featuring motivational speaker Ken Clear. Clear delivered an engaging and impactful message to the entire student body, focusing on resilience, purpose, and anti-bullying.
With his energetic and relatable approach, Clear encouraged students to overcome obstacles, treat others with kindness, and encourage their full potential. His words resonated with students and staff alike, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
The Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches met on March 6. President Brittany Barton gave updates on future Kiwanis events and service projects such as Reading on the River. President Barton awarded member Russell Meissner with his Kiwanian of the Month certificate. Past Kiwanis International President Nettles Brown inducted two new members into the club, Mary Scruggs of BOM Bank and Dane Terrell of Ivan Smith Furniture as well as Rhodes Realty.
Past Club President Don Barker introduced Barbara Justice, who spoke about the Cane River Creole National Historic Park and the opportunities provided to people to volunteer with the park.
Pictured: Past International President Nettles Brown, Barbara Justice, Mary Scruggs, Club President Brittany Barton, and Dane Terrell.
Wesley “Wes” Matthew Jones February 14, 1979 — February 22, 2025 Service: March 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Natchitoches
Deanna “Sunshine” Harris April 30, 1972 – February 26, 2025 Arrangements TBA
Kathy Michell Conlay September 11, 1978 – March 8, 2025 Service: Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 6p.m. at Rockette-Nettles Funeral Home in Coushatta.
Edward Reliford September 5, 1984 – March 1, 2025 Service: Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, located ta 318 North St. in Natchitoches
Dr. Bill W. Shaw, Sr. December 5, 1932-February 7, 2025 Service: Friday, March 14 at 11 am at Calvary Baptist Church of Natchitoches. Graveside service in the Calvary Baptist cemetery to follow.
Natchitoches Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them tonpjnatla@gmail.com
Senior Da’Zya Johnson ignited Lakeview early and came through late in Friday’s state championship game as the Lady Gators toppled defending champion Arcadia. (Photos by MICHAEL ODENDAHL, GeauxPreps.com)
HAMMOND – With five senior starters, the Lakeview Lady Gators finally climbed to the top of the mountain Friday afternoon.
They got sweet revenge while winning the state championship in the LHSAA’s Non-Select Division IV, defeating defending state champion Arcadia 38-34 at the University Center in Hammond as part of Marsh Madness.
Arcadia had drubbed Lakeview 60-29 in last year’s state semifinals. This time around, the Lady Gators were on a mission. They scored the game’s first eight points and never trailed, holding off the Lady Hornets’ comeback with excellent defense and clutch free throw shooting in the closing minutes Friday.
It’s the first state title in Lakeview girls basketball history. It came a few years after coach Dewaskie Fuller took over a program at its low point.
“Nothing but the Good Lord. This program, we built it from scratch. When we took it over, we were 1-21. We put in hard work and dedication, trusted God, and trusted each other,” he said. “We’re just grateful. A lot of hard work went into this.
“To lose in the third round twice, then to make it to state and then lose, and y’all know about the embarrassment last year, I’m just grateful,” said Fuller.
“I started with them (the senior class). They’ve been with me forever, it seems like,” he said. “They’re like my daughters. They’re going to be missed.”
It was the second straight four-point win in Hammond for Lakeview (30-4), which was the No. 1 seed in the Division IV bracket and beat Midland 48-44 Monday in the semifinals. In the championship contest, the Lady Gators led by 12 in the second quarter, were up 20-10 at halftime and weathered a fierce rally by Arcadia, which was the No. 2 seed.
The Lady Hornets closed within two points with 5:54 remaining, but Da’Zya Johnson quickly doubled the Lakeview lead on a layup from an assist by Najahe Davis, her fifth of the day. Timberlyn Washington, who had seven vital fourth-period points, hit a basket for a 31-25 advantage, but Arcadia kept coming, moving within three.
Johnson grabbed an offensive rebound and scored with 2:18 to go for a 33-28 lead, but Arcadia came back to close within 34-32 with 1:05 left. Washington sank two pressure free throws with 35 seconds to go and added two more down the stretch to preserve the Lakeview lead.
Johnson was chosen as the game’s Outstanding Player. She scored 10 points and had 8 rebounds, and her first-half production staked Lakeview to the lead it never relinquished. Last season, she played at Northwood-Lena and helped that team win the Division IV championship before transferring north to Lakeview.
“She got frustrated in the semifinals,” said Fuller. “I told her in the semifinal game, for us to be successful, we were going to have to go through her. We knew that she had the advantage down low, and she had a championship pedigree. She is already a (state) champion. For her to come out and put the hard work and effort to make sure her sister (Washington) was a champion, that shows you the true character of Da’Zya Johnson.”
Johnson overcame a serious knee injury after transferring. She briefly left Friday’s game after a collision in the third quarter, was helped to the locker room, and quickly returned to finish the game.
“The past year I’ve been through a lot with basketball. I tore my ACL and my meniscus. I never thought I could be back here,” she said. “Honestly, depression, my mental state, I really went downhill when I tore my knee. For me to come (to Lakeview), to know ‘T’ has my back, to know she was always uplifting me, it does feel great to win it. This is my sister, and I feel like I’ve been with this girl my whole life.
“I’m just emotional right now. I know I won it last year, but this is special,” said Johnson.
“T” is Washington, who will certainly soon earn All-State first team honors for a third straight year. She passed the 2,000-career point milestone earlier this season and added to her total Friday with a team-high 13 points.
“It had never been done on the girls side, so of course it means a lot to us,” she said. “To know we made history for Campti, that’s big.
“When the buzzer went off, you had laughter, you had tears,” said Washington. ‘Whew! It was an amazing feeling.”
Harold Remo ran into foul trouble Friday night but still contributed 11 points as the Natchitoches Central Chiefs basketball team overwhelmed visiting Covington by 17 to earn a return trip to the LHSAA’s Marsh Madness and a Thursday night state semifinal game. (Journal photos by KEVIN SHANNAHAN)
Natchitoches Central used double-figure scoring from five players, including two off the bench, Friday night and thumped visiting Covington 79-62 in an LHSAA Non-Select Division I state quarterfinal boys basketball playoff game in front of a packed house at The Teepee.
The victory advances the Chiefs (26-5) to their eighth state semifinal appearance since 2012, and their second in a row. Last year NCHS reached the state championship game. NCHS won it all in 2014 and 2016.
NCHS, the fourth seed in the Non-Select Division I playoff bracket, will collide with the No. 1-ranked Zachary Broncos (31-4) Thursday night at 8 in Lake Charles at Burton Coliseum. The winner reaches the state finals Saturday night at 8 in the LHSAA’s Marsh Madness boys tournament.
Khaelyb Creighton and JD Demery both scored 15 points, while the Chiefs got 14 apiece from Duke Nelson and Jaden Braden and 11 by Harold Remo as they drubbed Covington Friday night.
NCHS was up 41-33 at halftime. The lead quickly rose to double digits and never dropped under 10 afterward.
A major three-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 6 West near Collins Road led to significant traffic disruptions on March 7, prompting emergency response from multiple agencies.
According to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 1:30 p.m., blocking the roadway entirely and causing heavy traffic congestion on both sides of the scene. Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, Louisiana State Police, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS, NPSO Rescue, and Natchitoches Parish Fire District #6 all responded to the incident.
First responders worked quickly to assist those injured, while Louisiana State Police Troop-E took charge of the crash investigation. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes as authorities managed the scene and cleared debris.
By late afternoon, traffic had reopened to one lane, though officials urged drivers to remain cautious and avoid distractions while passing through the area. Further details regarding the crash, including the extent of injuries and potential causes, are expected to be released by Louisiana State Police Troop-E in Alexandria.
A structure fire broke out on March 6 around 9:41 am in the 700 block of Townsend Ballard Road near Marthaville, prompting a response from emergency personnel.
According to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, Deputy S. Lodrigue and firefighters from Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #7 arrived at the scene at approximately 9:41 a.m. to battle the blaze.
Authorities reported no injuries as a result of the fire. Emergency units remained on-site to monitor the situation and ensure the fire was fully contained. The cause of the fire was not immediately available as officials continued their assessment.
Petitioner contributed approximately $116,000.00 in addition to the initial capital contributions for repairs to the homes to make them ready for sale.
Petitioner made the following contributions to each joint venture in CASH for the purchase of these properties:
4360 Highway Alt. 2, Haynesville, LA
$34,150.00
1526 Creswell, Shreveport, LA
$31,750.00
5411 Dixie Lane, Alexandria, LA
$69,500.00
1707 Palmer Chapel Road, Pineville, LA
$30,000.00
2426 Marye Street, Alexandria, LA
$19,950.00
10036 Coshise Drive, Denham Springs, LA
$19,000.00
3250 Highway 487, Marthaville, LA
$30,000.00
8812 McCain Road, Shreveport, LA
$00.000 (See Document)
Total Investment by Petitioner
$234,350.00
A Status Conferenceto select a Trial Date for the Petition for Accounting has been scheduled.
Petitioners obtained a Judgment on October 28, 2024 in the Parish of Avoyelles in the matter entitled Rickie Dale Thomas, ET UX VERSUS Rodrick McIntosh in the amount of $27,500.00, plus reasonable attorney fees in the amount of $5,000.00 together with legal interest and all court costs.
This judgment was obtained by a granted Motion for Summary Judgment in the 12th Judicial District Court of Avoyelles.
The City will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on March 10 at the Natchitoches City Council Chamber to obtain views on the housing and community development needs of the City and to discuss the submission of an application for funding under the State of Louisiana FY 2026/2027 Community Development Block Grant (LCDBG) Program. The following items will be discussed at the hearing: A. The amount of funds available for proposed community development and housing activities; B. The range of activities available that may be undertaken, including the estimated amount of funds proposed to be used for activities that will benefit persons of low and moderate incomes; C. The plans of the City for minimizing displaced persons as a result of activities assisted with such funds and the benefits to be provided by the City to persons actually displaced as a result of such activities; and, D. The City past performance on LCDBG projects funded by the State of Louisiana.
All residents, particularly those of low and moderate income and residents of slum and blighted areas of the City are encouraged to attend this meeting. Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and/or limited English proficiency provided that three (3) days’ notice are received by the City.
Those citizens unable to attend this hearing may submit their views and proposals until March 10, 2025 in writing to: City of Natchitoches P.O. Box 37 Natchitoches, LA 71458-0037 Ronnie Williams Jr., Chief Elected Official
At a March 6 Public Hearing held by the Natchitoches Parish School Board, officials unveiled a proposed restructuring plan aimed at addressing financial constraints, deteriorating school facilities, and student safety concerns regarding the Natchitoches Jr. High campus and its facilities. The plan, designed to optimize resources while ensuring equitable learning environments, proposes a re-banding of city school campuses to be implemented for the 25-26 school year, to include: Weaver Elementary 3rd-5th (same building); Natchitoches Junior High 6-8th (move to current Magnet Building); East Natchitoches – site closure (with students being absorbed into other schools); Natchitoches Magnet (move to current East Natchitoches Building). The changes were considered necessary to avoid costly renovations or new construction while improving learning conditions.
The proposal comes in response to the ongoing issues with the aging school building at the Jr. High. Research presented during the meeting suggested that reducing the number of transitions between schools could improve academic performance and provide students with a more stable educational experience. However, the plan has not been without controversy.
Community members raised concerns about transportation logistics, particularly the safety of students walking to school. Many highlighted the lack of crossing guards, inadequate sidewalks, and insufficient traffic enforcement in key areas, making it difficult for children to commute safely. Residents also expressed frustration with inconsistent bus service, as some students in similar situations received transportation while others did not. In response, school board members assured the public that they would work to address these concerns, though they did not provide a clear timeline for potential solutions.
Additionally, the condition of certain school buildings, including one that had been reopened despite severe structural issues like leaking roofs, became a focal point of discussion. While some board members acknowledged the facility should not have been reopened in its current state, they revealed that prior renovation efforts had failed to address critical problems. Financial limitations were cited as the main reason for the delay in repairs, with officials emphasizing the need for a long-term solution that could include temporary relocation or a permanent move.
The re-banding plan also raised concerns about the allocation of funds for school improvements. Some residents questioned whether promised renovations had been completed and voiced concerns about financial transparency. Board members responded by assuring the public that they would work with law enforcement to enhance traffic safety measures and continue discussions on facility improvements.
Health services were another issue of concern, with some parents expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of sufficient school nurses and the potential for reduced access to medical care. Discussions about incorporating telehealth services as a supplement to in-person care were mentioned, but some residents questioned whether this approach would adequately meet students’ needs.
The board members reiterated that the proposed plan is the best solution within their financial constraints but acknowledged that it was not a perfect answer. They committed to reviewing community feedback in upcoming meetings before making final decisions about school restructuring, safety improvements, and healthcare services.
As discussions continue, the school board aims to balance the need for modern, safe educational spaces with the preservation of community values and historical significance. The next steps in the re-banding process will be guided by input from parents, teachers, and local residents, ensuring that all voices are heard before final decisions are made.
At the March 6 Natchitoches Parish School Board meeting, discussions covered a range of topics, including local basketball achievements, national recognition for the district, financial challenges following the planned closure of International Paper’s Red River Mill in Campti, and potential school re-banding efforts.
Basketball Success The superintendent celebrated the achievements of local high school basketball teams. The Lady Gators are set to compete in the championship game, while the Gators are vying for a trip to Lake Charles.
Additionally, the Lady Chiefs had an impressive season, making it to the quarterfinals before falling to Zachary.
National Recognition by NPR A major highlight was the announcement that National Public Radio (NPR) recently completed a story on the district’s education recovery efforts. The segment will air on March 13, showcasing the district’s progress and success on a national scale.
Washington, D.C. Conference and Funding Clarifications The superintendent also discussed a recent trip to Washington, D.C., where district leaders attended the NIET (National Institute for Excellence in Teaching) conference. The trip allowed district officials to engage with Louisiana’s congressional delegation on federal education grant concerns. Notably, the superintendent met with NIET founder Lowell Milken, who praised the district’s work.
In response to concerns about the trip’s timing amid discussions of school closures, the superintendent clarified that the conference was funded through Title II, a federal program designated specifically for professional development, rather than general school funds.
International Paper Closure and Financial Impact A key topic of discussion was the anticipated financial impact of the International Paper closure. The school board’s finance team reported a projected 12% reduction in parish-wide revenue, with District 7 expected to face a drastic 60% funding cut. The closure will significantly affect funding for school building maintenance, bond obligations, and general operations. Officials are preparing for budget adjustments to compensate for the loss.
Bus Driver Concerns A bus driver voiced concerns about staff shortages and the impact of student absences on transportation services. The speaker suggested reevaluating how attendance policies affect bus drivers, emphasizing the importance of consistent school attendance for students’ education.
School Calendar Review The board reviewed the proposed 2025-2026 school calendar, which was developed through faculty and staff surveys. The calendar maintains a structure similar to previous years, with 168 instructional days for students and 176 workdays for teachers, including professional development and conference days. The proposal received overwhelming support from 92% of faculty and staff. Board members also discussed the feasibility of a year-round school model but noted that survey results indicated strong support for the existing calendar format.
School Restructuring Proposals Two significant proposals were discussed: A. Closing Goldonna Elementary and Junior High: Due to declining student enrollment and financial constraints, the board considered the possibility of closing the school. While the Jr. High campus on Breazeale Springs Street would close, the students and staff would be moved to the Magnet campus on Dean Street. The Magnet students and staff would be moved to the East Natchitoches campus on East Fifth Street and the East Natchitoches students and staff would be absorbed into other campuses depending on the grade level.
B. Moving 6th Grade from Fairview Alpha to Lakeview Junior-Senior High: The board considered shifting 6th-grade students from Fairview Alpha Elementary to Lakeview Junior-Senior High for the 2025-2026 school year. Proponents argued that the move would provide students with greater access to programs such as ROTC, athletics, and advanced coursework. However, some board members expressed concerns about academic performance differences between the two schools and the logistics of integrating younger students into a high school environment.
Other Board Business Additional discussions included updates on tax revenues, school finances, and a proposed sick leave bank policy to aid employees facing catastrophic illnesses. The board also heard public comments related to potential school closures.
The March 13 board meeting will further address financial planning and district priorities as officials navigate these challenges.
