The City of Natchitoches has announced a temporary street closure to allow the Utility Department to safely install Christmas lights ahead of the holiday season.
Front Street, from Church Street to Touline Street, will be closed to thru traffic on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
The closure is necessary to ensure the safety of workers and motorists while crews complete the installation.
By JIM EICHENHOFER, NBA.com
Joe Dumars took the stage at his first press conference in New Orleans in late April. He grabbed both sides of the podium; took a breath; paused. “Happy to be home,” he said, smiling. “It’s been a whirlwind journey for me.”
A whirlwind is an understatement. Dumars’ story is more of a basketball odyssey — from backyard hoops in his hometown of Natchitoches, La., to Bad Boy Pistons, winning back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990, landing in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and ultimately, returning home.
This spring, Dumars was hired by New Orleans to lead its basketball operations department and guide the Pelicans back to and beyond their recent level of winning (playoff appearances in 2022 and 2024, a 49-win regular season in 2023-24), after a painful 2024-25 that featured a devastating series of injuries and the franchise’s worst regular season record in two decades.
The roster Dumars inherits has talent — including two-time All-Star forward Zion Williamson, first-team All-NBA Defense selection Herb Jones, and rising standout forward Trey Murphy— and Dumars has added a few key pieces in veterans Jordan Poole, Kevon Looney and Saddiq Bey, along with rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen.
But the roster is only one ingredient in a recipe for success. “Right time, right place, right people,” Dumars has repeatedly echoed in the offseason. For him, New Orleans is exactly the right place — and the right fan base. “When you’re from here, you understand what it means to be a fan,” he said at his first press conference in New Orleans (and in case you were wondering, yes, he is a lifelong Saints fan).
“Sometimes opportunities come along and you just know,” he added with a nod. “That’s what has happened here with the Pelicans. And I want to thank Mrs. (Gayle) Benson (governor of the New Orleans Pelicans) for this opportunity to come home.”
An old door and a bicycle wheel
In the early 1970s, you could find a young Joe Dumars dribbling a basketball on a patch of grass and red clay in Natchitoches — a small college town in north-central Louisiana. The improvised court may not have had any bells and whistles — his hoop was made from a bicycle wheel and an old unhinged door — but it stood directly across the street from a family friend’s store, where bright outdoor lights illuminated the neighborhood, allowing young Dumars to practice even after the sun went down.
Off the makeshift court, Dumars lived in a one-story house with his parents — Joe II and Ophelia Dumars — and six siblings. His father — a salt-of-the-earth World War II veteran — worked long shifts as a truck driver, while Ophelia worked as custodian at nearby Northwestern State University.
“They were old school — all about (hard) work (and) doing things right,” said Chris Maggio, a lifelong friend and now-retired former NSU president, whose father owned and operated the neighborhood store. “The mom demanded respect. They were ‘yes ma’am, no sir’ people who did things the right way.”
“They were the example,” said Dumars, recalling his parents from his office inside the Pelicans’ practice facility this summer. “They insisted (we) always carry (ourselves) with some dignity, with humility. The treatment of others was emphasized. That was a big theme in our house.”
Joe II and Ophelia expected good grades and steady attendance from the Dumars boys — and they delivered — but the brothers all truly excelled in athletics. None more so than Dumars, who could do just about anything he put his mind to. “He was a heck of a football player in middle school,” said Maggio. “Tennis. He could swim… He was a great athlete.”
But while his brothers took to football, Dumars ultimately turned his attention to basketball, “the one sport you can truly practice by yourself,” he said. Once his older brothers moved out (four went on to play college football), he spent hours in his yard shooting baskets. “And to be quite frank, I also wanted to carve my own path. I always heard about my brothers, how good they were (at football). I thought, ‘I’m the youngest, I’m going to make my own name.’”
A home court advantage
As a teenager, Dumars played on a New Orleans-based AAU team featuring multiple future NBA players, including Karl Malone (native of Summerfield, La.) and John “Hot Rod” Williams (Sorrento, La.).
In 2025, a star-studded scholastic group like that would likely end up restricting college options to historic national powers like Duke, North Carolina or Kentucky – but Dumars, Malone and Williams all remained in-state. Dumars chose McNeese State in Lake Charles, while fellow future Hall of Famer Malone went to Louisiana Tech in Ruston. Williams opted for Tulane in New Orleans. “We all knew we were going to pick a place where we could step on the court and make an immediate impact,” said Dumars.
He used all of his eligibility at McNeese, playing four seasons and taking a patient approach to preparing for a pro career. “Staying four years, you can see that you got better and better every year,” he said. “You can see your growth. As opposed to playing one year, then having to project how good you could be. For me, not for everyone, that was huge. I could see it and feel it — from 18 to 22 years old — it was night and day how much better I got over those four years.”
By the end of his sophomore year at McNeese, Dumars suspected he had an NBA future, but he never looked too far ahead. Instead, he carried himself the way his father taught him to: work hard, stay humble, “I just wanted to be the best player on my team. The best player in the Southland Conference. I wasn’t even thinking about the NBA.”
“He seemed older, more mature,” said longtime friend and McNeese supporter Billy Rose. “No shenanigans. He carries himself just the way his dad did. No BS.”
Any journalist visiting Lake Charles looking for negative background stories about Dumars would be guaranteed to leave disappointed, Rose joked. “An investigative reporter would have to say, ‘Went there. Found nothing.’ He’s dull. But that’s what you want from your team’s superstar. No baggage.”
Going heads-down on hard work, patience and integrity ultimately paid off. Dumars was selected 18th overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 1985 NBA draft. He was named to the All-Rookie first team that year, and just four years later, won his first of two NBA championships (the first of which he was named Finals MVP) as part of the Bad Boys Pistons squad.
Despite the team’s aggressive reputation on the court, Dumars remained quiet, respectful and level-headed, as always. In the 1995-96 season, seven years after his father’s death, he received the first-ever NBA Sportsmanship Award — now called the Joe Dumars Trophy — perhaps the accomplishment that would have made his father proudest.
“My dad never (told people) I had an NBA career,” said Dumars. “He said that I have a ‘really good job.’ He never got caught up in the hype or any of that. It was like, ‘Son, you have a really good job there. A well-paying job.’
“Treat people the right way, be respectful, (and) be humble. I take all of that with me. Everything he taught, I live that every day.”
At one point during Dumars’ lucrative Detroit playing career, he wanted to buy Ophelia a new house, to upgrade from the one-floor structure he grew up in. But — comfortable in their family home and neighborhood — Ophelia declined. Instead, her son simply added on to the property. Ophelia died in 2020, but the modest Natchitoches home is still owned by the Dumars family to this day.
All roads lead home
After working for the NBA’s league office in New York City in recent years as executive vice president and head of basketball operations, Dumars said during his April introductory press conference that there weren’t many opportunities that could cause him to leave that position. Leading basketball operations for his home state’s NBA franchise was an obvious exception.
He’s now tasked with bringing to New Orleans the same kind of success he produced as a player, as well as early in his tenure as Detroit’s top basketball executive (2004 NBA champions; 2005 Finals trip with Game 7 loss at San Antonio; six straight conference finals appearances from 2003-08).
“He’s going to lead the Pelicans with integrity,” said Maggio. “The players are going to respect him, and he’s going to respect the players, the coaches, the ownership, the community. He hasn’t changed at all since we were young.”
For Dumars, like most things, his new role starts with lessons learned at home. “When it’s at its best, the product on the (court) reflects the city,” he said in April. “New Orleans is resilient. They don’t fold here. They don’t just give up. You want the team to reflect that.
“This is an incredible fan base. I’m super happy to be here and super happy to be home.”
Several students from St. Mary’s Catholic School have been recognized for exceptional academic performance on their spring assessments, earning top marks on the Terra Nova and PreACT exams.
Students who achieved perfect scores on the Terra Nova test include:
In addition, four students earned composite scores of 30 or higher on the PreACT, a notable accomplishment reflecting both strong academic ability and dedicated preparation. They are:
Principal Stephen Wren commended the students for their outstanding efforts, noting that their achievements highlight the school’s continued commitment to academic excellence.
By Sid Hall, Military Affairs Coordinator / ROTC Program Manager
In continuing its tradition of honoring those who serve in the nation’s Armed Forces, Northwestern State University recognized the military service of Lieutenant Colonel Calvin Hoover Jr., US Army Retired, during its football game on October 25.
A proud NSU alumnus, LTC Hoover began his military career in 1998 as a Cavalry Scout in the Louisiana Army National Guard. He commissioned through NSU’s ROTC program in 2003 and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from NSU and a Master of Arts in Management from Webster University.
His military education includes Aviation Officer Basic Course, Ranger School, Pathfinder, Airborne, Command and General Staff College (ILE), Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE-C) (High Risk), Joint/Multinational Security Cooperation Courses, Aviation Safety Course, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, PMP Course, Dunker / Helicopter Emergency Egress Devise System (HEEDS), Joint Fire Power Course, Maneuver Captain Career Course, Mountain Leader Orientation Course, Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Airspace Coordination Cell Course, Special Operations Military Assistance (MA) Course, Special Operations Air Integration Course (SOAIC), Special Operations Joint Task Force (SOJTF-A) Orientation Course, Joint Humanitarian Operations Course (JHOC), State Department’s Foreign Affairs Counter Threat (FACT) Course, and OSHA 511 Certification.
An abbreviated listing of LTC Hoover’s assignments include Cavalry Scout for Troop A, 1st Squadron, 108 Cavalry Regiment, Louisiana Army National Guard; Platoon Leader and Executive Officer for 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, Fort Drum, NY; Troop Commander for 4th Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment and Brigade Aviation Officer for 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2ndInfantry Division, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA; Security Force Assistance Observer/Coach-Trainer, Fort Polk, LA; Brigade Aviation Officer for 173rd Airborne Brigade & Future Operations Plans Lead at U.S. Army Europe and Africa; Executive Officer for 1-353rd Aviation, 166th Aviation Brigade, Fort Hood, TX; Executive Officer for Special Operations Advisory Group, Afghanistan; and Security Assistance Training Management Organization Brigade Executive Officer & Regional Commander, US Army Central Command, Fort Bragg, NC.
LTC Hoover’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Medal with Combat Device, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Combat Action Badge, Senior Aviator Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Airborne Badge, and Ranger Tab. He also holds the Order of Saint Michael (Bronze and Silver), German Proficiency Badge (Gold), Italian Jump Wings, and Gold and Silver Spurs.
LTC Hoover hails from the Melrose area. He was escorted on-field by NSU President James Genovese and LTC(R) Arthur Smalley, Northwestern Demon Regiment Chief of Staff. Joining LTC Hoover to cheer on the Demons were his wife, Christy (Armstrong), and their children, Jermaine, Marcel and Anaïs.
Area performers are invited to participate in the 17th annual Natchitoches-NSU Multicultural Christmas Concert on Dec. 2 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum located at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches.
Singers, musicians, dancers or readers are welcome to help celebrate with the Natchitoches community during this joyous time of the year. All songs, readings and instrumental performances, sacred or secular, which address Christmas or the Christmas season, are welcome. All participants will perform without monetary compensation. Those interested can sign up to perform by calling (318) 357-4332 or emailing
folklife@nsula.edu by Nov. 21.
The Multicultural Christmas Concert is a benefit concert for Cane River Children’s Services. The concert is free and open to the public. This year’s festivities are sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum.
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When Melvin James Kiminsky was entering his senior year in high school in 1944, he took the Army Specialized Training Reserve Program test, an assessment to determine intelligence and comprehension. Melvin did so well on the aptitude test that Army recruiters sent him to Virginia Military Institute to study electrical engineering. Melvin, who had spent his whole life in New York City, was surrounded by “mountain ranges, red clay, a lot of horses, and statues of Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee.” At VMI, he was taught to ride a horse, wield a saber, do close-order drill, and electrical engineering. Then, he was transferred to Fort Sill, Oklahoma to work on a field artillery team whose main weapon was a 105mm cannon. The Army failed to provide hearing protection, so Melvin began tearing the filters off of Camel cigarettes and sticking those in his ears. He quipped, “my ears are still yellow to this day.”
In January 1945, Melvin was among hundreds of soldiers who were sent to Europe. He ended up on the front line between Sarreguemines, France, and Saarbrucken, Germany. Because he was classified as an engineer—his superiors overlooked the fact that he was an electrical engineer and not a combat engineer—they gave him a bayonet and told him to probe for mines. Melvin thought the order was absurd, but he was instructed to insert his bayonet into the ground at a shallow angle to avoid pressing the detonator which was normally triggered by pressure from directly above. After a while, Melvin joined a team with the 1104th combat engineers who had to erect a Bailey bridge, a portable truss bridge, over a river which led into enemy territory defended by Nazis. The Bailey bridge was so light that they could swing it out over the river, but strong enough to support the weight of a crossing tank. Melvin was one of the first men who had to cross the bridge because he had to secure it to the other side. The ever-watchful Germans, angry that an American soldier would soon be coming onto their side of the river, shouted warnings in German over a loudspeaker. Melvin grabbed a bullhorn and responded to the German soldiers but not by yelling threats. He sang a full rendition of the popular upbeat Broadway showtune “Toot, Toot, Tootsie (Goo’ Bye!)”
When he finished singing, he lowered the bullhorn. The men in his company stared at him in complete and confused silence. For a few moments, the German soldiers were also silent. Then, a few of the enemy soldiers began clapping and cheering. Neither the American soldiers nor the German soldiers understood the absurdity that had just occurred. Melvin understood the absurdity of the war and satirized it directly to soldiers on both sides of the conflict. For the past 80 years, Melvin Kiminsky has been entertaining the world in much the same way, with his own brand of absurd comedy. He is one of only 27 entertainers who have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award for his work on films such as “The Producers,” “Blazing Saddles,” “Young Frankenstein,” “Spaceballs,” and “Robin Hood: Men in Tights.” At 99 years old, he is currently producing and acting in “Spaceballs 2.” Kaminsky may not be a name you recognize. You see, early in his career, to eliminate his being confused with noted trumpet player Max Kaminsky, Melvin James Kaminsky began performing under the stage name Mel Brooks.
Source: “Mel Brooks on Fighting the Germans in World War II—Rare Interview!” TheTVTimeMachine, YouTube, March 3, 2024, https://youtu.be/xmJq2vvuPL4?si=e0Q3g1Zj8dwtBzyw.
Meet Aurora, a beautiful young gray tabby who has been through a lot. She was left to fend for herself and her five kittens back in May. Thanks to a loving foster family, all her kittens have found homes—and now it’s Aurora’s turn to find hers.
Aurora’s foster mom says she’s as gentle and loving as they come! She purrs loudly when she’s held but also loves her long naps and quiet “me time.” Aurora would make a wonderful companion in almost any home. She’s spayed, up to date on vaccines, and ready to meet her forever family!
With Christmas just around the corner, if you’re thinking about adding a new family member, please adopt—don’t shop! Give a homeless animal like Aurora the gift of a warm home this holiday season—you might just find she’s the purr-fect present.
For more information about fostering or adopting Aurora, please contact FAUNA (Friends All United For Natchitoches Animals) at npfauna@gmail.com or visit the website npfauna.org
April, said the Anglisized Laureate, is the cruelest month. But the April of my devotion here is the lilac out of the Pelican land. She and her husband call the Aggieland their home illumined by the Lone Star.
April and her “Moon to My Tides” Kory were sitting on the last Front Street bench before the Church Street bridge, perhaps musing on things “Of what is past, or passing, or to come” by the lord and lady of Louisiana of the moment.
Unceremoniously jolted out of their reverie by the tire-bursting bang-&-boom of the accident (don’t know how it happened!, my front right tire hit the curb on the corner of Church Street bridge), April asked her lunar emissary to help us two befuddled but outwardly composed couple with no automotive know-how. Kory go down to business right away, lifting us from the nadir of helplessness to the zenith of hale-&-heartiness. (For we don’t know jack from Jill, nuts from bolts.)
Kory, the Moon Man, got some things out of the trunk and busied with the installation of the spare tire to our trusted Toyota. While my sweetheart kept company with the “Angel of donut wheel”, I walked over to April to express our gratitude for the help.
By and by, I found out that they have been to Nepal some years ago. She said they visited Jumla during their personal mission to help the local folks with medicines, etc. I was moved by their generous spirit of fellow feelings for the folks of Jumla. For I have been to Jumla. And I was familiar with the needs of the Jumla people. So, Jumla sealed out friendship in the briefest span of time. For the friends of Nepal are my friends.
The donut wheel was ready to roll. But Kory and April insisted in following us to the Wallyworld for the purchase of a new tire.
So, Raj and I invited them over to out place for the lunch. After some hesitation, they accepted. “Why things happen the way they happen, no one knows,” April thought out loud.
They brought us a half orb of Fall Mums. And I luxuriate each morning in the aureate glow of our friendship in my backyard.
Michael D. Powell Sr.
July 17, 1954 — October 24, 2025
Service: Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches
Merlene “Moma” Triplett
February 5, 1939 – October 26, 2025
Arrangements TBA
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 to npjnatla@gmail.com
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a suspect wanted in connection with an alleged rape that occurred in Campti, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.
Detectives and patrol deputies responded to the incident on Oct. 20. The victim was treated at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center by S.A.N.E. (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) nurses and interviewed by investigators. No additional details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained sufficient evidence and probable cause to secure a criminal arrest warrant signed by a Tenth Judicial District Judge for:
Ernest Lard, Black Male, Age 50,Height: 5’09” | Weight: 180 lbs., Brown Eyes | Black Hair
Lard is wanted for First Degree Rape. He has been entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as a wanted person. Lard, a convicted felon, is known to have ties to Natchitoches, Bienville, Caddo, and Red River Parishes and reportedly uses several different modes of travel.
Anyone with information regarding Lard’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-357-7851, or their local law enforcement agency. All information will remain confidential. Case Agent:Detective Sgt. Matthew Robertson, NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau, 318-357-7830
Richard Searles, Special Assignment to the Journal
The Natchitoches Parish School Board closed FY 2024-2025 with a significant budget deficit of $2,301,987, representing expenditures that exceeded revenues by 2.4%. However, strong fiscal management and prudent reserve policies enabled the district to successfully absorb this deficit while maintaining adequate fund balances. The district’s fund balance decreased from $17.4 million at the beginning of the year to $15.1 million at year-end. —a controlled 13.3% reduction that kept reserves well above critical thresholds. While this deficit spending pattern requires immediate corrective action to ensure long-term sustainability, the district’s ability to weather this financial challenge without service disruptions or fiscal crisis demonstrates effective financial stewardship and planning.
Key Management Achievements in FY 2024-2025
The district’s financial leadership successfully navigated challenging circumstances while maintaining operational stability:
Financial Indicators
Fiscal Year Results:
Total Revenues: $94,360,536
Total Expenditures: $96,662,523
Net Operating Result: ($2,301,987) DEFICIT
Impact on Fund Balance:
Total Assets: $28,801,140
Total Liabilities: $13,745,815
Fund Balance: $15,055,325
Strong Financial Management Demonstrated
Despite the operating deficit, the Natchitoches Parish School Board exhibited exemplary fiscal management throughout FY 2024-2025 that prevented what could have been a fiscal crisis:
Initiative-taking Reserve Management
Operational Excellence
Financial Discipline
Strategic Positioning
This strong financial foundation—built through years of conservative budgeting and reserve accumulation—is precisely what enabled the district to weather the FY 2024-2025 deficit without crisis. The challenge now is to address the structural imbalance before these carefully built reserves are depleted.
Financial Health Assessment
Strengths
Weaknesses
Risks and Concerns
Note: While the following risks require attention, the district’s strong fiscal management in FY 2024-2025 demonstrates the leadership capability to address these challenges effectively.
Financial Ratios and Metrics
Liquidity Ratios
Operational Efficiency
Fund Balance Metrics
Fiscal Stress Indicators
Conclusion
The Natchitoches Parish School Board’s performance in FY 2024-2025 demonstrates the value of strong fiscal management and prudent reserve policies. The district successfully navigated a $2.3 million operating deficit without service disruptions, vendor payment defaults, emergency borrowing, or falling below critical reserve thresholds. This outcome was only possible because of years of disciplined financial planning that built fund balances from an estimated $17.4 million to a year-end position of $15.1 million, still comfortably above the 10% minimum at 15.5% of expenditures.
Commendable Financial Management Practices:
However, Strong Management Must Now Address Structural Issues:
The 13.3% reduction in fund balance in a single year, while controlled, is not sustainable. The district’s excellent financial position should not mask the urgency of the situation:
This is not a crisis, but rather a call to action. The district has proven it can manage effectively under pressure. The challenge now is to apply that same competence proactively, engaging the community in sustainable solutions that protect both fiscal health and educational excellence. The foundation remains solid, the management team has proven capable, and the path forward is clear… making the tough decisions now to ensure long-term sustainability.
Year-End Financial Analysis based on FY 2024-2025 Annual Financial Report
The Natchitoches Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred Saturday evening on South Drive. On Oct. around 8:55 p.m., NPD officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of South Drive in reference to gunshots in the area. Upon officers arrival they located Eric Jackson (B/M, 58 y.o.a. of Natchitoches), the victim, suffering from several gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began to render aid while other first responders were arriving to the area. Eric Jackson was later pronounced deceased by the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office as a result of his injuries.
While on scene officers were approached by Stephanie Walker (B/F, 53 y.o.a., of Natchitoches), the suspect, who said that she was responsible for the shooting.
Detectives and Officers also spoke with several witnesses that led to the collection of additional evidence and the execution of a search warrant on a residence in the area. All of the evidence recovered will be sent to the crime lab for additional analysis.
Stephanie Walker was interviewed by investigators and has been charged with Second Degree Murder. She was placed in the LaSalle Corrections / Natchitoches Detention Center.
The Natchitoches Police Department would like to thank the Louisiana State Police, the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Northwestern State University Police Department for their assistance during this incident.
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 Summer Carter or Detective Abbie Baker at (318) 357-3810. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.
How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:
You can also report a tip anonymously by downloading the P3 Tips app on your smart phone or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388. All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $5,000 for the arrest of an offender.
Natchitoches City Council will have a pre-council meeting on Monday, Oct. 27 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.
PLANNING & ZONING – FINAL:
#034 Harrington Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 64 Of 2001 By Changing Zoning Classification Of Property Described As Follows: Location Lot # 3 of Harvey Landrum Subdivision on North Side of St. Maurice Lane. From: R-1 to R-1 Special Exception. Reason: Operation of a Short-Term Rental (720 St. Maurice Lane)
#035 Nielsen Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 64 Of 2001 By Changing Zoning Classification Of Property Described As Follows: Lot 2B of Nolly St. Townhomes as ‘shown on map slide 403-B. From R-1 to R-1 Special Exception. Reason: Operation of a Short-term Rental. (2014 Nolly St.)
ORDINANCES – INTRODUCTION:
#036 Petite Ordinance To Amend And Reenact Section 8-1 Of Chapter 8 Of The Code Of Ordinances, Entitled Building And Building Regulations, Said Amendment Being Made To Adopt Appendix AQ Of The International Residential Code (IRC) Titled Tiny Houses To Reflect Current Building Codes, As The Official Building Codes Of The City Of Natchitoches, Louisiana, Providing For Advertising, Further Providing For Severability, And Further Providing For A Repealer And Effective Date Of Ordinance.
#037 Smith-Kirkendoll Ordinance Authorizing The Mayor Of The City Of Natchitoches, Louisiana, To Enter Into A Cooperative Endeavor Agreement With Natchitoches Historic Foundation, Whereby The City Of Natchitoches Will Lease To The Natchitoches Historic Foundation The Ground Upon Which The Roque House Is Located And The Natchitoches Historic Foundation Will Lease Ground And Facilities To The City Of Natchitoches, Providing For Advertising, Further Providing For Severability, And Further Providing For A Repealer And Effective Date Of Ordinance.
RESOLUTIONS:
#088 Smith-Kirkendoll Resolution Authorizing A One-Time Salary Supplement Payment To The City Of Natchitoches Employees.
FINANCIAL REPORT: Clarissa Smith
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
The next scheduled City Council meeting will be November 10, 2025.
The offices of the City of Natchitoches will be closed Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in observance of Veterans Day.
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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), advises motorists that on Thursday, Oct. 30 construction will begin on an emergency pipe repair project on I-49 northbound in Natchitoches Parish.
This work will take place approximately 3 miles north of exit 119 near Montrose.
The intent of this project is to rehabilitate three 120” corrugated metal pipes at Bayou Lacarp which is located under I-49. This includes repairing damaged areas and applying a geopolymer lining along the inside of the pipes.
Geopolymer lining is a highly durable material that – once applied to the inside of the pipe – hardens and bonds with the existing structure to create a protective seal and reinforce the pipe’s integrity.
The project was awarded to Vortex Services, in the amount of $2,092,777.
In order to allow construction to progress safely and efficiently, the northbound outside lane of I-49 will be closed.
The work associated with this project should wrap up in early 2026, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.
A Patriotic Tribute to the American Spirit presented by the Northwestern Symphony Society Tuesday Oct 28, 7:30
Doug Bakenhus invites the public to this, sure to be inspiring tribute to the American Spirit
The event is free to all Veterans and $15 for tickets purchased the day of the event on the campus of NSU at the Magale Hall
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Baton Rouge — The Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society (LGHS) posthumously awards Louis Raphael “BeBe” Nardini Sr. with its highest honor, the Order of Cavelier Sieur de La Salle. The award is bestowed onto those whose actions have greatly preserved, advanced, and honored the history and culture of Louisiana. The award is named for famous explorer, Rene Robert Cavelier Sieur de La Salle, who explored and claimed the entire Mississippi River basin for France. La Salle named the colony “La Louisiane” in honor of King Louis XIV and Saint Louis. La Salle built forts, trading posts, and communities from Canada to Texas.
Nardini joins other notable Louisiana Creoles and Cajuns in the Order of Cavelier: William King Hunt (historian and founder of the LGHS ), Hale Boggs (U.S. congressman and house majority leader), Edwin Edwards (governor of Louisiana and U.S. congressman), Nicholas Murray (writer, editor and historian), and Robert Brevelle (writer, entrepreneur, and historian). Like historic French medals, the ornate Cavelier medal is made of silver and gold. It features the seal of the State of Louisiana and a silk ribbon similar to those found on French and Native American medals.
Nardini was a Natchitoches native whose ancestors were among the original explorers and settlers of Louisiana to include the founders of Natchitoches. Nardini was a local business owner, philanthropist, journalist, archaeologist, historian, genealogist, museum curator, and author of several popular history books including No Man’s Land: A History of the El Camino Real and My Historic Natchitoches, Louisiana and Its Environment.
Over 300 years ago, Louisiana was explored and originally settled by a relatively small number of Europeans, mostly of French and Spanish origin. Of the six recipients (including Nardini) of the Order of Cavelier over the past 60 years, all are descendants of these founding families. All recipients are cousins with the exception of former House Majority Leader Hale Boggs, who is related by marriage.
“We are fortunate to count Nardini among the great sons of Louisiana,” said Robert Brevelle, Chairman of LGHS and member of the Order of Cavelier. “He was one of the first historians and genealogists to recognize the importance of the history of Natchitoches, the oldest settlement in Louisiana. He collected important artifacts, curated one of the first museums in the area, and published numerous works in journals, newspapers, and books. He was a leader of several local community organizations always promoting the area’s history and culture. He was an ambassador of Natchitoches and Louisiana to the world.”
Nardini grew up in Natchitoches where he was a well known baseball and football star. He later founded the Natchitoches Parish Baseball League and served as its President. He was also an avid outdoorsman. The Natchitoches Enterprise, the oldest newspaper in the oldest settlement in Louisiana, recognized his skill in this area and regularly published photos of his fishing and hunting harvests. Nardini became a columnist for the paper penning “The Breamfisherman”. His skills as a journalist and writer continued to expand. He later authored multiple history books, started a publishing company, and became editor of The Journal of Louisiana School Bus Operators Association.
Nardini was active in multiple civic and community organizations such as the Boy Scouts and Woodmen of the World, where he served as Council Commander. He served as Chairman of the Natchitoches Tourism Committee and was a member of the Louisiana Culture Commission and Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce. Nardini was a devout Catholic. He was an officer of the Louisiana State Office of the Knights of Columbus, Professor at St. Mary’s Catholic High School, and sponsor of the Catholic Daughters of America.
As an archaeologist, genealogist, and historian, Nardini focused his work on the local area’s history. He was passionate about Native American, Antebellum, and Civil War history and became the preeminent historian in Natchitoches. He was a regular speaker at local universities such as Centenary and organizations such as the Lions Club and Rotary Club. He co-founded the Plantation Museum in Natchez, one of the first museums in the area. Many of the hundreds of artifacts on display came from Nardini’s archaeological work. His writings and maps were and continue to be used by the State of Louisiana Department of Education, City of Natchitoches, and historical societies.
Nardini’s books have been quoted and cited in hundreds of newspaper articles, magazines, journals, academic papers, and books. Several Louisiana Native American tribes have cited his research and books in their official history and documentation with the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs and the State of Louisiana. Recognizing the historical importance of Nardini’s work, the Adai Caddo Indian Nation purchased the original manuscripts from Nardini’s estate. The Adai Caddo are the indigenous people of the region with villages to the north, south, and west of the original Natchitoches post and settlement including along the Red River, Bayou Pierre, Sabine River, and in present-day East Texas. Nardini wrote extensively of the Adai Caddo, due to their role in the establishment of Natchitoches, nearby Los Adaes (first capital of Texas), and the first two Catholic missions in Louisiana (Mission San Miguel de Linares de los Adaes and San Miguel de Cuellar de los Adaes). The capital and missions were named for the Adai Caddo. Nardini collected numerous Adai Caddo artifacts from nearby Indian mounds, and prior to his death, was working with the City of Natchitoches to build a museum modeled on their villages to include ceremonial grounds and hinta-saks (the traditional houses of the Adai Caddo).
“Nardini is a Natchitoches treasure,” said John Mark Davis, Chief of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation. “During a time of racism and segregation, Nardini was researching, publishing, and promoting the true history of Natchitoches thereby recognizing the significant role of Native Americans and their extensive interactions with the French and Spanish. In his time, Native Americans and those of Spanish descent were oppressed and denied their rightful history in Natchitoches. We were treated as second class citizens and watched as our names, ancestors, warriors, and contributions to Natchitoches and Louisiana were systematically erased. Nardini was one of the first historians and genealogists to champion the true history of this region. My father, the late Chief Rufus Davis Jr. recognized the importance of Nardini’s work and purchased the original manuscripts from his estate. We have shared these documents with other Native American tribes, and Nardini’s work will continue to live on in generations of Native Americans.”
Support for Nardini’s induction came from members of the LGHS, Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical Society, Adai Caddo Indian Nation, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Louisiana Native American Council, and local historians and genealogists.
Nardini’s family stated, “We are overcome with pride and happiness that the Louisiana Genealogical and Historical Society has honored our family member. Thank you to everyone at the society and to all of those who wrote in and supported Louis Raphael Nardini. This year is the 50th anniversary since his passing. This recognition is truly a testament to his life’s work…sharing the history of the home he loved, Natchitoches.”
The LGHS was founded in 1953 to collect, preserve, and publish genealogical and historical materials for the state of Louisiana and its people. The society works closely with genealogy and ancestry libraries, historical societies, state agencies, research facilities, and universities. LGHS is headquartered in Baton Rouge and sponsors two seminars each year at the Louisiana State Archives building and at alternating location typically at a genealogical library or historic site. The society provides for a certification and renewal program for Louisiana genealogists and heraldists. Additionally, the society maintains the official state registries containing 7 registers: Indigenous Tribes of Louisiana, Founding Fathers of Louisiana, First Families of Louisiana, Creoles of Louisiana, Cajuns of Louisiana, Slaves of Louisiana, and Manilamen of Louisiana.
For over 70 years, the society has published The Louisiana Genealogical Register – an eclectic collection of Louisiana records as well as historical and genealogical articles. Over 100 libraries subscribe to this journal. Other publications include historical books such as Louisiana Soldiers in the War of 1812, Federal Census of 1810 for Territory of Orleans, A Guide to Printed Sources for Genealogical and Historical Research in the Louisiana Parishes, Be it Known and Remembered: Bible Records (Volumes 1-5), The Savages Creed: Chronicles of the Adai Caddo Warriors, and Early Louisiana Families.
Visit us at http://www.laghs.com.
Please contact melissa.collins@laghs.com for more information.
Natchitoches’ Martin Luther King Center played host to well over 1,000 young ghouls, superheroes and costumed figures of every description and their families as the Natchitoches Main Street Program held its Witch Way to Main Street Halloween event on Oct. 25. The gym was lined with booths staffed by various community businesses and organizations where the youngsters could try their hand at games and rake in lots of candy and treats. Deputies from the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Department were on hand to ensure safe fun for the children.
The event’s entertainment was none other than Natchitoches’ iconic Lagniappe Fusion Belly Dance Troupe who performed their “Witches’ Dance”, a perennial crowd favorite.
The popular event, started in 2000, is a long-standing community tradition that provides families a safe place for their little ones to have fun and trick or treat. This event is one of the many things that make life in our community so special. More than a few of the parents of the children dressed up were themselves trick or treaters at an earlier Witch Way to Main Street event.
Natchitoches’ historic Trinity Episcopal Church was filled with members of the LGBTQ community, families and allies, for the area’s first Pride Mass Saturday, October 25. The Pride Mass is a regular service with readings and homily geared towards acceptance, healing and God’s love towards all persons. After the service, the church hosted food and fellowship in the church hall.
The service was led by The Rev. Shelley Martin, Curate of Alexandria’s St James Episcopal Church, The Rev Kristen Paul, Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, and The Rev Deacon Michael Parham of St. James Episcopal Church.
From the Pride Mass program” “Live without fear: your Creator has made you holy, has always protected you. And loves you unconditionally. Go in peace to follow the good road and may the blessing of God, Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, be with you now ands always. Amen.”
The Natchitoches downtown riverbank and library were the places to be for spooky family fun on Oct. 23 as children and their families enjoyed the Pumpkin Glow and Fall Carnival events. The downtown riverbank was packed with families celebrating the 2025 Pumpkin Glow. The popular event is still going strong in its 13th year and has become an integral part of Fall in Natchitoches. Pumpkin Glow featured superbly athletic performers from local dance and cheer schools who showed off their skills to the crowd in a variety of routines. The grace, strength and athleticism displayed by the youngsters was simply amazing to see.
Pumpkin Glow also featured the traditional pumpkin decorating contest that drew a number of contestants from throughout the community. This year’s winner was submitted by Ms. Janna Smiley of the Society of Sugar Magnolias, Natchitoches’ first all-female Mardi Gras Krewe. The contest was judged by NSU Associate Professor of Art, Corbin Covher assisted by art students.
The Natchitoches Parish Library also held its annual Fall Carnival that evening. Over 100 children and their families enjoyed games, crafts, and coloring, not to mention a witches’ cauldron full of candy. Natchitoches very own Lagniappe Fusion Belly Dancing Troupe entertained the crowd.
The Drumline from the NSU Spirit of Northwestern Band was joined by the NSU Steel Band Pandemonium and Samba Batucada Band in a free concert before a delighted audience on the downtown riverbank stage Friday, October 24. Much of the audience were community members and visitors who found a bit of serendipity on a Front Street. Friday night.
The drumline played a variety of pieces that they normally perform at Demon football games, while the Steel Band Pandemonium played several songs with a Caribbean theme, including the Limbo dance, a traditional feature of each year’s concert. NSU’s Samba Batucada Band was a welcome addition to the 2025 Drums Along the Cane lineup. This band features Brazilian instruments and played several Brazilian pieces,
One of the unique aspects of the Steel Band Pandemonium is that one does not have to be a member of the Spirit of Northwestern Band or even a music major or student, to join. Any community member willing to learn and put in the work is welcome.
The hard working members of the Spirit of Northwestern band are a delightful group of young men and women who contribute much to the quality of life in our community. Fork ‘em Demons!
It was a night of celebration and victory at St. Mary’s High School on Friday, as the Tigers defeated LaSalle 28–6 in their Homecoming game. The win improved St. Mary’s to 3–5 overall and 2–1 in District 3-1A.
Adding to the evening’s festivities, Miss Jenna Sklar was crowned Homecoming Queen during halftime. The event also welcomed back alumni from the Classes of 1975, 1985, and 2015, who gathered to celebrate their milestone reunions.
On the field, the Tigers delivered a strong performance on both sides of the ball. JP Thibodaux led the offense with 184 rushing yards and two touchdowns, powering St. Mary’s ground attack. Dennison Morgan added a one-yard touchdown run, while AJ Johnson connected with Chalin Gandy on an 18-yard touchdown reception to round out the scoring.
Defensively, the Tigers made several key plays to keep LaSalle in check. Brady Childress and Michael French each recorded an interception, helping St. Mary’s secure its third win of the season.
The Tigers will look to continue their momentum next week as they host Northwood-Lena on Friday night. The game will also serve as Senior Night, with a pregame recognition ceremony beginning around 6:35 p.m. to honor the school’s senior football players and spirit group members.
