A shop north of Campti was destroyed in a fire Tuesday evening, while a nearby home sustained minor damage, authorities reported.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies and multiple units from Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #9 responded to a reported fire on Jan. 20 around 6:37 pm in the 100 block of Bud Sullivan Road, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office. Additional calls indicated that nearby homes may have been at risk.

No injuries were reported. NPFD #9 Chief Doug Rachal said the shop was a total loss, and the home suffered damage to its siding.

Deputies K. Middleton and J. Severance were on the scene, and the fire response remained active as crews worked to secure the area.

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A former Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputy was arrested following a five-month investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior with a minor, according to Sheriff Stuart Wright.

The investigation began in August 2025 when the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office received a complaint regarding a deputy assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau. An offense report was forwarded to the Criminal Investigation Bureau for further review.

During the initial stages of the investigation, Deputy Javien R. Etienne, 23 of Youngsville, was terminated. Command staff collected his commission card, duty weapons, and all other sheriff’s office-issued property.

Detectives conducted a thorough investigation, which included interviews with the victim, potential witnesses, collection of forensic evidence, and the execution of at least twelve search warrants. Evidence gathered led to the issuance of an arrest warrant by a judge of the Tenth Judicial District.

On Jan. 14, 2026, Etienne turned himself in to NPSO detectives at the Criminal Investigations Bureau. He was booked into the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center and charged with one count of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile. He was later released on a $75,000 bond pending his court appearance.

Sheriff Wright issued a statement emphasizing the department’s commitment to integrity and accountability:

“The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office holds its employees to the highest standards of conduct and professionalism. Any behavior that violates the law or undermines the trust placed in this office will not be tolerated. Our priority remains the safety of our community and the protection of our children.”

Etienne had been employed with the NPSO for less than one year. The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are being released to protect its integrity. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the NPSO Criminal Investigations Bureau at 318-357-7830.

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In addition to calendar and superintendent actions, the Natchitoches Parish School Board addressed a wide range of financial, facilities, and policy matters during its Jan. 20 meeting, including acceptance of the annual audit, approval of a construction bid, discussion of historic facility preservation, and a failed vote on board travel.

The board voted to accept the district’s audit report, noting that it was completed and presented significantly earlier than in past years. Board members said previous audits were often received more than a year after the reporting period, while the current audit was delivered within approximately six months. District leaders attributed the improved timeline in part to federal compliance guidance becoming available in early December.

Board members also acknowledged staffing shortages within the finance department and commended staff for managing a large workload despite limited personnel. The board noted that some audit findings were influenced by those staffing challenges and said corrective actions are expected.

The board approved a construction bid for the Marthaville Elementary and Junior High baseball facility, awarding the project to Rhodes Properties and Development at a cost of $396,000. Board members noted a significant discrepancy between bids submitted. The motion passed by roll-call vote, with one member abstaining.

Later in the meeting, the board heard a presentation proposing the creation of a legacy room or historical space at the former Natchitoches Junior High campus. The proposal outlined a vision for preserving the school’s history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programming aligned with Louisiana history standards. Supporters emphasized the importance of honoring the school’s role in the Black community and preventing the loss of historical materials.

The idea mirrors discussions held during the Jan. 13 committee meeting, where board members and administrators acknowledged both the cultural significance of closed school facilities and the challenges associated with funding, insurance, and long-term maintenance. No formal action was taken, though board members expressed interest in further exploration.

The board also considered whether to send members to a national school board conference. Discussion centered on budget constraints, recent financial pressures, and the estimated cost per attendee. After a roll-call vote resulted in a tie, the motion failed.

Additional updates referenced during the meeting included ongoing transportation contract evaluations, with proposals from four vendors under review and a recommendation expected later in February, as well as reminders regarding upcoming evaluations, contracts, and district events.

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The Natchitoches Parish School Board voted to table consideration of the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 academic calendars during its Jan. 20 meeting, following a divided discussion over planning timelines, instructional structure, and the purpose of the district calendar.

Board members first addressed the proposed 2026–2027 calendar, with a motion made to delay approval until a future meeting. Supporters of tabling said the calendar had only recently been distributed and warranted additional review. Some members expressed concern that the calendar appeared to prioritize employee scheduling rather than student needs and said more time was needed to fully evaluate its impact.

Opposing members argued that delaying approval undermines long-term planning for families and staff.

They noted that many surrounding school districts finalize calendars earlier in the year and that approving a calendar well in advance helps parents, teachers, and students plan vacations, medical appointments, and extracurricular commitments. Several members said tabling the calendar created the appearance of disorganization and prolonged an issue that had already been discussed at the committee level.

The board voted by roll call to table the 2026–2027 calendar.

A similar discussion followed for the 2027–2028 calendar, which had been presented alongside the earlier year as part of a proposed two-year calendar plan. Members who opposed tabling said adopting a two-year calendar would reduce repeated annual debates and provide greater consistency for district families. Others maintained that if the first calendar was delayed, the second should be handled the same way.

The board again voted to table the item.

The calendar discussion built on issues raised during a Jan. 13 committee meeting, where district leaders outlined the rationale behind the proposed calendar structure. Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloi and staff explained that professional development days were consolidated at the beginning of the school year to reduce shortened instructional weeks scattered throughout the fall. District officials said teachers had previously expressed a preference for a full fall break rather than multiple three- and four-day weeks.

Administrators also noted that remaining shortened weeks are driven by legal holidays and required parent-teacher conferences, which will continue in their current format to accommodate families with varied work schedules. District leaders said the calendar complies with state instructional requirements and has not negatively impacted academic performance.

According to information shared at the committee meeting, the district’s alignment with neighboring systems has also contributed to improved teacher recruitment and retention, reducing losses to nearby districts.

No date was set for when the calendars will return to the board for consideration.

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Editor’s note: This message was originally shared publicly by the rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchitoches. We are sharing it with readers as it highlights ongoing community work and outreach efforts taking place locally.

I am reaching out to all my family and friends who may be willing to support a charitable organization that is trying to make a difference in their community—whether you live in Natchitoches or New York or New Zealand—if you’re someone who still believes the world can be better – more importantly, if you want to help keep a house of God available to everyone, I want to invite you into something practical and powerful.

For those of you who don’t know, I run Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchitoches, Louisiana. Becoming a priest has been a gift I cannot explain in a Facebook post, but at the same time, it is an incredibly difficult time to be one, far harder than I ever imagined.

Trinity is striving to be a house of God that lives into Jesus’ life and example.

• We are a place were people in recovery can meet safely and with dignity.
• Trinity hosted a Pride Mass this year – the first Natchitoches has ever seen – with a goal of making sure all our LGBTQ+ neighbors – especially our local college students and the high school students of our local arts and sciences boarding school – can feel safe, treated with respect and dignity and, most importantly, know that they are beloved by God exactly as they are.
• We are also a place that hosted a Red Mass to honor the justice workers of our community – our judges, lawyers, police, firefighters, and first responders – we want them to know that the ministry they do is overwhelmingly important to all of us, and to God.
• We have a food pantry to support our community members in need.
• We serve on the board of a local non-profit mental health resource organization (Mind Over Matters) because we are strongly committed to advocating for mental health and mental health awareness.

There’s a million other little things that make Trinity special. Bottom line, we are a little church, in a little town, trying very hard to follow Christ’s example, to stand with those on the margins, to care for anyone and everyone we can, and to be a house of worship that is a safe haven for everyone – no exceptions.

It’s a hard place to be sometimes, but it is deeply important and I need your help – we need your help. If you have it in you ability to support our efforts, we would greatly appreciate it. You can set up a recurring pledge to our church, or you can make a one-time payment. Any amount would be helpful.

This is an institution that deserves your support. Things in our world are incredibly hard at the moment, I promise with all that I am that we are trying to be more – we are trying our very best to live into Christ’s countercultural example.

If you can support us, please visit http://www.trinitynatchla.org and select the “Online Giving Form” tab.

If you have any questions, feel free to call our church office at 318-352-3113 or contact me directly at 443-734-4243. Thank you for whatever help you can give, we appreciate your support in keeping us going in our ministries and place in this community.

With love,
Kris+

Kristen E Paul, Rector at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchitoches, Louisiana

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In a world of endless alerts and nonstop trends, the public’s attention rarely makes it past the loading screen before the next “new thing” drops.

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Hall Summit is preparing for a big day of action, community spirit, and charitable giving as the Hall Summit Community Center & Park hosts a full slate of events on Saturday, February 28, 2026, all benefiting Pilots for Patients.

The all-day event will bring together motorcycle riders, barbecue teams, outdoor sportsmen, vendors, and families for a cause that provides critical air transportation for patients in medical need.

One of the highlights of the day will be the Don Bernard Memorial Poker Run, which will begin at 3 State Harley-Davidson in Bossier City before riders make their way to Hall Summit. Motorcycles, cars, Jeeps, and clubs are all welcome to participate, honoring Bernard’s legacy while supporting the life-saving mission of Pilots for Patients.

Also on the schedule is a BBQ Cook-Off, featuring a non-traditional two-meat competition with half chicken and ribs. Teams will compete for bragging rights and prizes, with an entry fee of $150. Smoke will be in the air as pits fire up for what organizers expect to be a competitive and crowd-pleasing cook-off.

Outdoor excitement continues with a Wild Hog Live Catch Tournament, offering 40 award buckles and action throughout the day. The tournament is expected to draw participants from across the region.

In addition to the main events, attendees can enjoy a silent auction, raffles, vendors, concessions, and a variety of family-friendly activities, making the day accessible for all ages.

The event will take place at Hall Summit Community Center & Park, located at 1170 First Street in Hall Summit.

All proceeds from the day will go directly to Pilots for Patients, a nonprofit organization that coordinates free air transportation for patients facing serious medical challenges.

Organizers say the event is about more than competition and entertainment — it’s about honoring a legacy, supporting a life-saving cause, and showcasing the strength of a small community coming together for something bigger.

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The Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery has launched a new educational series spotlighting the fish species raised at the facility, beginning with the paddlefish, a prehistoric species native to North American river systems.

Often referred to as gentle giants of the river, paddlefish have existed for more than 100 million years, predating trees and humans. The species is easily recognized by its long, flat snout, known as a rostrum, which helps the fish detect movement and navigate its surroundings.

Despite their long history, paddlefish populations have declined significantly, largely due to overharvesting linked to the American caviar industry. Paddlefish eggs, or roe, are used to produce American caviar, a market valued at approximately $250 million. Unsustainable harvesting practices in the past contributed to population losses that conservation efforts continue to address today.

Protecting paddlefish populations is considered critical to ensuring the species can be sustained for future generations while allowing for responsible commercial and recreational use. Conservation strategies focus on balancing ecological preservation with regulated harvesting practices.

At the Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, staff are actively involved in breeding and restoration programs aimed at rebuilding paddlefish populations. These efforts are part of a broader mission to conserve native aquatic species and restore healthy ecosystems throughout the region.

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Dan Quayle, whose place in U.S. vice presidential history is mostly remembered for things he said, then wished he didn’t.

“I have made good judgments in the past. I have made good judgments in the future.”

More recently, Mike Pence. Hero, or heel?

Both from Indiana, like Benjamin Harrison.

Who? One of the more obscure U.S. presidents, the 23^rd man to hold the office, for one term (1889-93).

Shifting to “who are celebrities born and raised in Indiana,” for $400 …

Larry Bird.

The Jacksons – Janet, Michael, Tito, et al.

John Mellencamp.

DAY-vid LETTERMAN.

No great Indy 500 drivers, but the Indy 500.

Tony Stewart, one of NASCAR’s all-time stars.

Colonel Sanders, who crossed the Ohio River and became the most famous chicken cooker ever.

Axl Rose and David Lee Roth.

The real “Hoosiers,” the 1954 Milan High School Indians, with a school enrollment of 154, the smallest school ever to capture the all-classifications Indiana state basketball title. You surely have seen the movie.

Jane Pauley. If you haven’t seen her CBS Sunday Morning package on her alma mater and home state, find it online.

(Me. Like Jane, born in Indianapolis, but unlike the esteemed TV journalist, I was shipped out to western Pennsylvania eight weeks later. It was really cold both places this time of year.)

Then let’s get to people who aren’t native Hoosiers, but are Indiana University icons.

Bob Knight, not Hoosier born, but definitely a Hoosier hero. A champion, and a world class chair tosser.

Mark Cuban, overjoyed alumnus/donor Monday night. A Shark.

The Six Million Dollar Man, Lee Majors, Kevin Kline and a bunch of actors.

Joe Buck. We just assumed he went to college at Busch Stadium.

Now, Fernando Mendoza and Curt Cignetti.

One won the Heisman Trophy and lived up to it leading IU to the College Football Playoff crown Monday night. He was the two-star high school quarterback born a mile from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, where the legend was sealed.

He’s a guy who the previous Hurricanes’ staff told no, thanks, there’s not a spot for you to walk on here.

Cignetti is the architect, chief builder and mad scientist who thought one of the country’s least successful programs could rule the college football universe. In just two years, his Hoosiers are 27-2 and in fact, do rule the CFP landscape.

Two years ago, Cignetti was coaching at James Madison. Mendoza was the freshman starting quarterback for the Cal Bears in the Independence Bowl.

All who encountered him for that week up in Shreveport have said this guy is that guy. He was every bit as charming, as humble and as magnetic as he has been this season.

Cignetti has told journalists and anyone else that the Hoosiers’ story is fit for a Hollywood script. He’s right.

It’s as if Indiana is the epicenter for unlikely epic sports accomplishments.

Milan is obvious. Bird leading Indiana State to the NCAA finals is another. Butler’s more recent run to the Final Four championship game fits. Rudy and Notre Dame football.

John Daly got in the 1991 PGA Championship as a last-minute alternate, and won, going wire-to-wire, in Crooked Stick, Indiana.

It happens there. Again, and again, and again.

As the TV talking heads scrambled to express their amazement, justifiably, Monday night, more than a few said Indiana may be the best college football team ever.

The 2019 LSU Tigers beg to differ.

Cignetti said as much later last night. His isn’t the most talented. Just the most unlikely rags-to-riches story ever – “the sum of our parts.”

The Hoosiers finished 16-0, the most wins by an unbeaten modern-day college team (2019 LSU was 15-0).

They did it in Miami, where the 1972 Dolphins went 17-0 in their perfect Super Bowl season, the only one in NFL history.

Wonder if the Hoosiers will have champagne toasts at the end of each season when no other college squad can do what they did.

They have earned the right. And with an average age of 23 on the team, they can already do it legally.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

 

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Nothing has shaken the bass fishing world more than forward-facing sonar (FFS). While I’ve given my perspective on this technology and how it’s affected the bass tournament world, I’m now wondering what’s next? Understand, this is my perspective, as I have no inside knowledge from anyone.

One thing that we know for sure, the big three fishing electronic companies (Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance) are not going to stop building a better mouse trap. Their engineers are paid to be innovative and are aways looking to make improvements and advancements with regards to their technology.

Today’s sonar units are crazy good! You can literally see the swimming action of the tail on a bass. No fish is safe anymore and no fish can hide from today’s electronics.

One thing that is probably coming next will be the ability to identify the fish you’re seeing on the screen without guessing. Is that a bass, crappie or a carp? Knowledgeable anglers can do that today if they’re really good with their electronics and if they have studied and understand fish behavior.

But I think these companies are going to figure out a way to tell you exactly what species of fish you are seeing on your screen. They are going to continue to simplify the visual aspect of what you’re seeing on the screen.

Next, get ready for live video! This already exists with a company called Aqua-Vu. (It’s just not allowed in tournaments.) These have been out for a few years and to let everyone in on a little secret: several bass touring pros already use this unit for scouting, but don’t want the public to know.

Look for new camera units from one of the big three electronic companies, probably in association with “Go Pro Cameras,” to be the first to introduce this new way of seeing fish on our screens.

Many people are asking the question, “Where does all this stop?” Here’s the bottom line. There’s no stopping technological advancement. It won’t stop until people quit paying the prices they are asking for all these electronic advancements. If anglers are willing to pay, companies will continue to build bigger and better units.

Here’s the problem; just follow the money! All these electronic companies are pumping thousands of dollars into these professional bass fishing organizations as sponsors, forcing B.A.S.S. and Major League Fishing (MLF) to allow pro anglers to use forward-facing sonar.

I think we are getting to the point where these organizations are going to have to decide what’s more important — sponsorship support or the integrity of the sport? They also need to ask themselves if this new technology is good for the sport in the long run on the professional level.

You can say what you want, but forward-facing sonar (FFS) in bass tournaments is destroying the sport. I’m personally not against FFS for the everyday angler. I think it’s great tool for fun fishing and catching crappie.

I’m even OK with it for local bass tournaments on the amateur level. But when it comes to professional anglers using it on pro tournament trails, I am not a fan and it should be disallowed.

This is the same as Major League Baseball allowing the use of aluminum bats. It’s just not good for the sport of baseball! Hopefully the pro tours will do the right thing and eliminate FFS completely.

The biggest complaints about FFS come from the older generation of anglers, not the young guns on the rise. The young kids today have been raised with FFS from day one and really understand how to use it, giving them a huge advantage over the older anglers.

This could all play out another way. Pro tours may just wait out this issue with FFS and let this older group of anglers walk away or retire because five years from now, FFS won’t even be an issue at all.

So, what’s the next big issue going to be? Probably something totally different, as the electronic companies continue to make improvements and advancements with their electronic units. Only time will tell!

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The Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches welcomed Cle’lie Aubin of Imagine More LLC as a guest speaker during its weekly meeting.

Aubin discussed the benefits of yoga as a mind–body practice, emphasizing how movement, breathwork, and mindfulness can reduce stress, improve flexibility and strength, promote better sleep, enhance mental clarity, and support overall well-being.

Club members described the presentation as both informative and inspiring.

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If you grew up in the 1960s, you remember that nightly publicservice announcement that came on right before the late news: “It’s 10 PM. Do you know where your children are?”

Of course, our parents didn’t know where we were. It was the 60s. Half the time we didn’t know where we were. Childhood back then was a freerange, unsupervised, loosely organized adventure involving bicycles with no helmets, creeks with questionable water quality, and a general understanding that you should be home “before dark,” which could mean anything from 5:30 PM to the next morning depending on the season and your mother’s mood.

Today’s parents track their children with GPS, Bluetooth, satellite imaging, and—if necessary—a drone. In the 60s, the only tracking device was your mother’s voice hollering your name across three neighborhoods like a foghorn powered by righteous indignation. And somehow, that worked.

Back then, if you told your mom, you were “going outside,” that was considered a complete itinerary. No one asked followup questions. No one needed a permission slip. You could be building a treehouse, digging a hole to China, or accidentally setting something on fire. As long as you came home eventually and didn’t bleed on the carpet, you were considered a successful child.

And yet, for all the differences between then and now, one thing hasn’t changed: every generation has to figure out life—and faith—for themselves.

My generation grew up with three TV channels, rotary phones, and the theological certainty that if you ran in church, God would personally trip you. Today’s kids grow up with smartphones, streaming services, and the ability to Google “Why does my pastor say that?” during the sermon. (Please don’t tell me if you’ve done this.)

But here’s the truth: faith has never been something you inherit like your grandmother’s casserole dish.

Each generation has to discover Christ anew—sometimes in ways that surprise the generation before them. And the church, if it wants to stay alive and not become the spiritual equivalent of lukewarm leftovers, has to let the Holy Spirit shape it into a living, breathing, organic body of Christ—not a museum of how things used to be.

The kids who grew up hearing “It’s 10 PM—do you know where your children are?” are now grandparents watching their own grandkids navigate a world we couldn’t have imagined. And just like our parents trusted us to find our way home before dark, we can trust that God is guiding this new generation toward their own encounter with grace.

So the next time you worry about “kids these days,” remember: our parents survived us. And God, who has been faithful through every generation—from rotary phones to TikTok—will be faithful still.

And if you’re reading this after 10 PM, don’t worry. God knows where His children are. Always has. Always will.

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Renovations are underway at the former Community Care Center located at 720 Keyser Avenue in Natchitoches as the site is transformed into a new inpatient and medical detox facility operated by Nova Vital Recovery. The renovations are part of Nova Vital Recovery’s broader expansion across North Louisiana, with additional programs planned in Monroe and Shreveport.

The Natchitoches facility will operate as a Louisiana addiction treatment center, providing medically supervised detox and inpatient services to individuals seeking recovery. Once completed, the site will offer local access to care that previously required travel outside the parish.

Nova Vital Recovery’s decision to repurpose the former Community Care Center reflects a growing demand for substance use treatment services in the region. The renovation project also brings new investment into the Keyser Avenue area, returning the property to active use while expanding healthcare resources within the community.

No official opening date has been announced, but exterior signage at the site indicates the facility will operate under the name Nova Vital Recovery Natchitoches once renovations are complete.

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Natchitoches’ sixth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration March for Justice and Peace was held on Jan. 19. The march began at the Ben D. Johnson Center and proceeded to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Triangle Park. The marchers were led by NSU’s Alpha Phi Alpha chapter who carried a wreath to commemorate the memory of the civil rights leader.

Dr. Martin Luther King was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, joining as a graduate student in 1952 at Boston College. The Alphas were joined by brothers and sisters from NSU’s Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, Omega Psi Phi and Phi Beta Sigma Greek organizations as well as community members and civic leaders. Twenty-five students from the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts joined the march, something they have done each year the event has been held. They were joined by the coach and entire NSU volleyball team as well as several athletes, students and faculty from NCHS.

The march ended at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Triangle Park where in a solemnly moving ceremony the brothers of NSU’s Alpha Phi Alpha chapter placed a wreath at Dr. King’s memorial. After the ceremony, the marchers moved to the Martin Luther King Recreational Center for a commemorative program. Coach, teacher and pastor Rev. Kedrin Seastrunk delivered an insightful and moving keynote address. Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. was the final speaker, dismissing the crowd and inviting them to a delicious lunch of gumbo and taco soup courtesy of the Rockford Baptist Church.

The event was organized by the City of Natchitoches, NSU, and the Northwestern State University Gail Metoyer Jones Center. The Natchitoches City Marshal’s office and Police Department provided traffic control.

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The Gorum Community Center has begun initial efforts to renovate its property as board members work to restore and expand the facility for future community use.

Mark Kerry, president of the Gorum Community Center, said the organization assumed ownership of the former Gorum High School property in 1983, after the school closed in 1980 and the land was transferred from the Natchitoches Parish School Board. Kerry noted that while little improvement was made to the site for many years, the current board is now active and engaged in moving the project forward.

The first phase of renovations focuses on replacing aging tin sheets on the roof and walls of the old shop building. According to Kerry, new tin will be installed once approval is received from the Natchitoches Parish Planning and Zoning Commission. The center has raised some funds to begin the work and is seeking additional donations as well as volunteers to assist with the project.

Once the roof and walls are completed, the board plans to raise funds for interior improvements. Future phases include installing a ceiling, creating a kitchen area, building restrooms, and adding HVAC systems. Long-term plans also include finishing the interior space and developing a recreational area with basketball goals and tennis or volleyball nets.

Kerry expressed appreciation to those who have already contributed time and support to the project, including Henry Troquille, Cynthia Garsee, Chris Williams, Joey Troquille, Kenneth Sherman Kerry, Jerry Bolton, Brian Nichols, and Dexter Goynes.

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Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) has expanded its diagnostic capabilities with the addition of electroencephalogram (EEG) services, providing patients with access to advanced neurological testing within the community.

An EEG is a safe, painless, and noninvasive diagnostic test that records the brain’s electrical activity. During the test, small electrodes are placed on the scalp to detect and record brain waves, allowing healthcare providers to evaluate how the brain is functioning in real time.

EEGs play a critical role in diagnosing and managing a wide range of neurological conditions, including seizure disorders and epilepsy, altered mental status, head injuries, strokes, brain infections, and tumors. Because EEG testing does not involve radiation, it is particularly valuable for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and critically ill patients.

The availability of EEG services at NRMC improves timely access to care, which can be lifesaving for patients experiencing seizures or sudden neurological changes. Offering this service locally reduces the need for patients to travel long distances, minimizes delays in diagnosis, and allows providers to begin appropriate treatment sooner.

“Expanding access to EEG services is another way we are strengthening care for the patients and communities we serve,” said Kirk Soileau, CEO of Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. “Providing this level of neurological testing close to home improves patient safety, supports faster clinical decision-making, and helps ensure continuity of care for patients and their families.”

Shelly Coleman, RRT, BASAH, Respiratory Therapy Manager at NRMC, emphasized the clinical importance of the service for patients across the region. “EEG testing gives our providers critical, real-time information about brain function,” Coleman said. “Having this service available locally allows us to respond more quickly to neurological concerns, support timely diagnosis, and deliver more comprehensive care for patients who may be experiencing serious or sudden changes in their condition.”

EEG services enhance NRMC’s ability to deliver comprehensive neurological care across inpatient, outpatient, and emergency settings, supporting improved coordination among providers and better overall patient outcomes.

EEG tests are performed in NRMC’s Ambulatory Treatment Center. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 318-214-4265. For additional information about EEG services, patients and providers may contact the Respiratory Therapy Department at 318-214-4696.

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Members of the NSU Elementary Lab 4-H club recently traveled to Shreveport to participate in a hands-on service project at Holy Angels.

During the visit, students distributed essential items to residents and also assisted with various projects around the facility. The effort allowed the 4-H’ers to take part in direct community service while learning the value of helping others through action.

Natchitoches Parish 4-H officials recognized Revill Dean for leading the service initiative and thanked club leader Mrs. Wiggins for organizing and supporting the trip.

Organizers said the project reflected the core mission of 4-H by encouraging youth to serve their communities, develop compassion, and engage in meaningful service experiences beyond the classroom.

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A pair of late lead changes and one final drive to the rim sent the Northwestern State men’s basketball team to a heartbreaking 82–80 loss Monday night at Sharp Gymnasium, as Houston Christian erased a late deficit and delivered the final blow in Southland Conference play.

The Demons (6-13, 4-6) appeared in control heading into the closing minutes, leaning on interior efficiency and timely scoring, but the Huskies answered possession after possession down the stretch before Kylin Green’s driving layup with four seconds remaining proved decisive.

“We put ourselves in position to win,” third-year head coach Rick Cabrera said. “But when you have an eight-, nine-, 10-point lead, you’ve got to figure out a way to close it out. Right now, when it’s time to go, we’re not defending the way we need to defend.”

Northwestern gave up a 13-point lead Saturday in a last-second 76-74 loss at UIW.

Northwestern led 65-55 at the 10-minute mark Monday night after a Kordrick Turner layup capped a steady offensive stretch, forcing HCU to play from behind.

The Huskies (6-13, 3-7) responded with a surge fueled by perimeter shooting, trimming the margin to three after back-to-back 3-pointers from Trent Johnson and Riley Bartley.

The Demons briefly steadied themselves behind Willie Williams, who finished through contact on multiple possessions and converted a free throw at the 2:13 mark to make it 79–75.

The Huskies refused to fade.

D’Aundre Samuels buried a corner 3 with 1:54 remaining to cut the deficit to one, and after Izzy Miles split a pair of free throws on the other end, Green calmly knocked down two at the stripe to tie the game at 80 with 53 seconds remaining.

Northwestern had one more opportunity to respond but came up empty, setting the stage for Green’s final attack.

The senior guard drove downhill and finished at the rim with four seconds left, giving HCU its first lead since early in the second half.

A last-second running shot for the Demons did not fall, sealing the Huskies’ comeback after they shot 60 percent from the field and 12-of-20 from beyond the arc.

“We can score,” Cabrera said. “Offense isn’t the issue. When you score 80-plus points on the road, that’s not the problem. But when you give up 80-plus points, that’s an issue. Our defense has to be better than our offense late.”

In its last two home games, Northwestern won on a Micah Thomas 3-pointer at the buzzer and a free throw with just over a second remaining, before the agonizing losses at UIW and HCU. Cabrera emphasized that the recurring theme of close finishes must lead to growth, especially with the season’s margin tightening.

“At some point, you’ve got to come together as a unit and guard when it matters the most,” Cabrera said. “Every game in this league is going to be a nailbiter under four minutes. The team that gets the most stops is going to win, period.”

Northwestern returns to Mike McConathy Court at Prather Coliseum on Saturday, hosting East Texas A&M at Prather Coliseum. Tipoff is 3:30 p.m.

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The Northwestern State football program has placed five players on the Southland Conference All-Academic team announced by the conference office.

Natchitoches native and St. Mary’s product Ben Bienvenu, Caleb Billiot, Myion Hicks, Abram Johnston and Danny Sears each earned a spot on the team for the Demons. It is the first all-academic honor for each of the five student-athletes.

To be considered for the selection, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 or better while participating in at least 50 percent of the team’s competitions.

Bienvenu saw action in 11 games in his first season with the Demons. He made a season-high five tackles against McNeese and picked up four more against UIW a week later, including his first career tackle for loss. Bienvenu is a business administration major and has a 3.64 GPA.

One of two team captain selection to earn all-academic honors, Billiot started every game for the Demons at center in 2025. He extended his consecutive games started at the position to 16 by season’s end with 21 total starts over the past two years. The Houma native carries a 3.54 GPA in health and exercise science and was also named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team earlier this month.

A graduate transfer, Hicks led the Demons in rushing in 2025 with 311 yards on 78 carries, bursting onto the scene with a season-long 51-yard jaunt in the opening win against Alcorn State. Hicks produced a 4.0 mark in NSU’s health and human performance master’s program.

NSU’s starting quarterback throughout the season, Johnston maintained a 3.86 GPA as a sophomore biology major while throwing for over 1,000 yards, rushing for nearly 300 and contributing to 11 total touchdowns during the season. Perhaps his signature performance of the year came on the road at Nicholls where he accounted for 242 total yards and three touchdowns, two of them rushing, while going 18-for-23 through the air and carrying the ball 18 times in the game.

The other team captain from this list and fellow CSC Academic All-District selection, Sears was one of four defensive players to start every game for the Demons this past season. He finished fourth on the team with 51 tackles with at least two stops in every game, pushing his streak of game with two or more tackles to 17 straight. A health and human performance major, Sears made five or more stops in five games and maintains a 3.55 GPA.

East Texas A&M linebacker Koby-Sebasyen King and Stephen F. Austin defensive lineman Ky Thomas were named SLC co-Student-Athlete of the Year.

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Local author and Natchitoches Parish native John Ballard Jr. will host a book signing and release event at the Natchitoches Parish Library on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ballard is a published author whose works include three devotional books and one Christian science fiction title. The upcoming event will celebrate the release of his newest book and provide readers an opportunity to meet the author, discuss his work, and have copies signed.

Several of Ballard’s previously published books are currently available through the Natchitoches Parish Library system.

Community members interested in learning more about Ballard and his writing can contact him by email at things2brew.on@gmail.com. He can also be followed on his blog at groundedandsettled.net.

The event is open to the public.

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Shasta Lynn Johnson Daniels, beloved wife, mother, Kippi, great-grandmother, teacher, and faithful servant of the Lord, age 77, of Robeline, LA, passed away Friday, January 16, 2026, at her home in Robeline, LA.

Arrangements are being managed by Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home in Natchitoches, LA where the family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Thursday, January 22, 2026. The funeral service will be at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Many, LA at 2:00 PM Friday, January 23, 2026 with President Jared Vincent officiating. Interment will be at Rocky Mount Cemetery in Robeline, LA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil Millard Johnson and Willie Cleo Lewis Johnson of Otis, LA and her brother, Dr. Tommy G. Johnson and wife Elizabeth of Natchitoches, LA. She is survived by her husband Carroll Daniels of Robeline; daughters, Briana Methvin and husband Brent of Lincolnville, KS; Cecilia Henderson and husband Paul of Robeline, LA; and Carolyn and husband Ray of Eros, LA; 9 grandchildren, Shane Methvin of Emporia, KS, Kyle Methvin of Lincolnville, KS, Andrew Skerlong and wife Katelyn of Avinger, TX, Cole Methvin and wife Emma of Elmdale, KS, Nicole Bierman and husband Logan of Gilmer, TX, Tucker Henderson of Robeline, LA, Lane Methvin of Lincolnville, KS, Noah Henderson of Robeline, LA and Molly Skerlong of Eros, LA; and 6 great grandchildren. Pallbearers will be Shane Methvin, Kyle Methvin, Andrew Skerlong, Cole Methvin, Tucker Henderson, Lane Methvin and Noah Henderson.

Shasta grew up in Otis, LA and attended school at Oakhill. She often shared fond memories of her time at home and enjoyed close relationships with her aunts, uncles, and cousins. She spoke with joy of family gatherings and cookouts in the “old cabin” outside of her family home. She was especially close to her parents Cecil and Cleo, brother Tommy and grandmothers Molly and Alma. She cherished the role of wife, mother, grandmother (affectionately known as Kippi coined by her oldest grandchild, Shane), and great grandmother.

After earning her B.A. from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA she dedicated 43 years of service as an educator teaching in several Louisiana Parishes most notably Natchitoches Parish. The majority of her career was spent at Marthaville Elementary and Junior High School. She continued her education and received her Master’s +30 in Education and Specialist degree. She also certified in Gifted Education and retired as the Curriculum Coordinator for Natchitoches Parish Schools. She was voted Teacher of the Year for Marthaville Junior High and Natchitoches Parish. Shasta shaped countless young lives with patience, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Teaching was not just her profession – it was her ministry.

Throughout her life as a devoted Christian and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Shasta served as adult Sunday school teacher for 12 years, Primary leader and teacher, seminary teacher and as Young Women’s and Relief Society Presidents. She also served in various stake leadership callings. As a child, she was a classically trained piano player and shared her musical gift as the church and choir pianist. Of her many positions she often said that her time as Nursery leader was her favorite. Her quiet faith, gentle leadership, and Christlike love left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

In 1980’s Baton Rouge, Shasta joined the major ERA movement. She stood with many passionate women on the State capital in support of women’s rights.

Shasta will be remembered for her kind heart. She never wanted anyone to go hungry and often fed struggling families in her community. Her legacy of faith, family devotion and compassion will continue through generations.

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