Below are the results for the March 23, 2024 election.

Results not final until certified by the state.

Mayor – City of Natchitoches

Lee Posey – 49% (1,873 votes)  Runoff
Ronnie Williams – 46% (1,735 votes)  Runoff
James Below, Jr. – 4% (158 votes)
Gerard Lamar Witman, Jr. – 0% (18 votes)

Total Votes: 3,784
Unofficial Turnout: 37.2%

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Councilman at Large – City of Natchitoches

Betty Sawyer Smith – 39% (1,440 votes)
Greg Burke – 33% (1,220 votes)
Dennie Boyt -15% (539 votes)

Harold Bayonne – 14% (501 votes)

Total Votes: 3,700
Unofficial Turnout: 36.4%

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Councilman – District 1, City of Natchitoches

Eddie Harrington – Was Elected by “No Opposition” and was not on a ballot this Election

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Councilman – District 2, City of Natchitoches

Dale Nielsen – 68% (709 votes) Winner
Maria Mangum – 32% (338 votes)

Total Votes: 1,047
Unofficial Turnout: 35.0%

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Councilman – District 3, City of Natchitoches

Christopher Petite – 77% (262 votes) Winner
Carl Sias – 23% (77 votes)

Total Votes: 339
Unofficial Turnout: 23.4%

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Councilman – District 4, City of Natchitoches

Rosemary Washington – 53% (441 votes) Winner
Robert Lilly, Jr. – 47% (397 votes)

Total Votes: 838
Unofficial Turnout: 28.7%

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Consolidated School District No. 11 – 8 mills In-Lieu – SB – 10 Yrs.

YES – 66% (321 votes)
NO – 34% (162 votes)

Total Votes: 483
Unofficial Turnout: 22.7%

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Mayor – Village of Clarence

Marques Braxton – 57% (88 votes) Winner
Leslie Oglesby – 43% (66 votes)

Total Votes: 154
Unofficial Turnout: 46.1%

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Aldermen – Village of Clarence

Shanita Grayson – 26% (99 votes)
Caltren Payton – 20% (75 votes)
Tamala T. Chatman – 14% (54 votes)
Scheryl Kelsey – 14% (51 votes)
Aretha McWright – 13% (49 votes)
Billy Jennings – 13% (47 votes)

3 to be elected

Total Votes: 375
Unofficial Turnout: 37.7%

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Cheif of Police – Village of Clarence

Demetric Joseph – 52% (79 votes) Winner
James Milstead – 48% (74 votes)

Total Votes: 153
Unofficial Turnout: 46.1%

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The NCHS Math Team competed at the Demon Math Challenge, held Friday, March 22 at the Northwestern State University campus. The 11 students of the Chief squad vied against a field of 8 schools and 76 students.

The Demon Math Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the NSU Math department for high school students. The competition tests their knowledge of algebra, geometry, and advanced math. Students take an individual test and then compete as teams in a quizbowl style contest to be the first to solve problems.

NCHS’ All Stars (highest scoring students) were Isaac Young and Alson Key. Additionally, former NCHS student Bryan Chen was named an All Star for the LSMSA Team.

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The Gator Nation made its second appearance at the Demon Math Challenge, held Friday, March 22 at the Northwestern State University campus. The 8 students of the Gator squad competed against a field of 8 schools and 76 students.

The Demon Math Challenge is an annual competition hosted by the NSU Math department for high school students. The competition tests their knowledge of algebra, geometry, and advanced math. Students take an individual test and then compete as teams in a quizbowl style contest to be the first to solve problems.

Lakeview’s All Stars (highest scoring students) were Macey Jarngin and Traylyn Lofton.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE —– IMPORTANT NOTICE

PARISH OF NATCHITOCHES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS I, II, III & IV

DISTRICT 1/EDD – I

FILING COLUMN: A4 (DISTRICT 1 EDD-I) SALES TAX

This will be the column on the tax form where you will file your local Sales and Use Tax

Sales and Use Tax Rate Increase

Parish of Natchitoches

On December 18, 2023 the Parish of Natchitoches levied an ADDITIONAL Sales and Use Tax for Economic Development District I (EDD – I) of One Percent (1%).  In addition to the sales tax increase, the 2% Parish Hotel Occupancy tax for room rentals will also be applied to future sleeping rooms.  SEE THE TAX TABLE BELOW FOR THE NEW INCREASED TAX STRUCTURE. 

The tax rate for all other Parish of Natchitoches businesses remain at 4.0%

 

APRIL 1, 2024

New Local Sales and Use Tax Rates and City Occupancy Tax

State of Louisiana	4.45% (Sales Tax)
Natchitoches Parish School Board	2.50% (Sales Tax)
District 1 – EDD I	2.00% (Sales Tax) New Tax Levy
District 1 – EDD I	2.00% (Occupancy Tax) New Hotel Levy
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office	0.50%(Sales Tax)
Tourist Commission	3.00% (Parish Occupancy Tax)
Total Rate	14.45%

IMPORTANT: If your business is located in EDD-I, you will receive a confirmation packet and instructions from the Tax Commission concerning the new filing protocol. You are hereby instructed to change all computers, cash registers, or collection procedures to insure the collection of the new rate increase. Please notify all vendors of this tax increase.

A copy of the new sales tax form will be available to all businesses at www.laota.com and the Tax Commission office.  All businesses should begin to use the new form for your April sales, rentals, etc. on May 1, 2024.  Any questions concerning the implementation of this tax should be directed to:

NATCHITOCHES TAX COMMISSION
Laura D. Jeffcoat
Administrator
(318) 357-8871

Advertorial

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Natchitoches Association of Ministers and other area Pastors support Betty Sawyer Smith for Councilperson At Large of Natchitoches.

Standing from left to right: Altorio R. Holden, Jr., Pastor Altorio R. Holden, Sr., Evangelist Thelma Williams, Rev. Dr.. Ail Harris, Jr., Council At Large Candidate Betty Sawyer Smith, Pastor Steven Harris, Sr., Rev. Dr. Elbert R. Demery, Pastor Dr. Linda King, Pastor Brian Small, Pastor LaRon Winslow, Minister Jacoby Bradley and Pastor Conway Jones.

Let’s continue to move Natchitoches forward in a Progressive Manner.  March 23, 2024, please Vote #36 – Betty Sawyer Smith as your Councilwoman-at-Large.  

A proven voice for all!

Paid for by Betty Sawyer Smith Candidate for Council-at-Large

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Mayoral Candidate Jerry Witman, Jr. published a video on his social media page announcing that he was withdrawing from the current Mayoral Election for Mayor of Natchitoches.

NPJ spoke with the Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge and was informed that Mr. Witman’s letter of withdrawal was received AFTER the deadline to have his name removed from the ballot. Therefore, his name will appear on the ballot for the March 23, 2024. However, Witman has withdrawn from the race.

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Office Building for Lease:

Size: 2 story / 2,170 Square Feet; Downstairs: 3 offices, file room and 2 bathrooms; Upstairs: 1 office, conference room, kitchen and 1 bathroom
Term: Lease – 1 year minimum
Lease Rate: $2,200.00 per month  NOW $2,000.00

Location: 101 Hazel Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana

For more information and/or a showing, please contact, 318-663-9077 or 318-471-9955

Serious Inquiries Only

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IMPORTANT NOTICE —– IMPORTANT NOTICE

PARISH OF NATCHITOCHES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS I, II, III & IV

DISTRICT 1/EDD – I

FILING COLUMN: A4 (DISTRICT 1 EDD-I) SALES TAX

This will be the column on the tax form where you will file your local Sales and Use Tax

Sales and Use Tax Rate Increase

Parish of Natchitoches

On December 18, 2023 the Parish of Natchitoches levied an ADDITIONAL Sales and Use Tax for Economic Development District I (EDD – I) of One Percent (1%).  In addition to the sales tax increase, the 2% Parish Hotel Occupancy tax for room rentals will also be applied to future sleeping rooms.  SEE THE TAX TABLE BELOW FOR THE NEW INCREASED TAX STRUCTURE. 

The tax rate for all other Parish of Natchitoches businesses remain at 4.0%

 

APRIL 1, 2024

New Local Sales and Use Tax Rates and City Occupancy Tax

State of Louisiana	4.45% (Sales Tax)
Natchitoches Parish School Board	2.50% (Sales Tax)
District 1 – EDD I	2.00% (Sales Tax) New Tax Levy
District 1 – EDD I	2.00% (Occupancy Tax) New Hotel Levy
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office	0.50%(Sales Tax)
Tourist Commission	3.00% (Parish Occupancy Tax)
Total Rate	14.45%

IMPORTANT: If your business is located in EDD-I, you will receive a confirmation packet and instructions from the Tax Commission concerning the new filing protocol. You are hereby instructed to change all computers, cash registers, or collection procedures to insure the collection of the new rate increase. Please notify all vendors of this tax increase.

A copy of the new sales tax form will be available to all businesses at www.laota.com and the Tax Commission office.  All businesses should begin to use the new form for your April sales, rentals, etc. on May 1, 2024.  Any questions concerning the implementation of this tax should be directed to:

NATCHITOCHES TAX COMMISSION
Laura D. Jeffcoat
Administrator
(318) 357-8871

Advertorial

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Natchitoches Association of Ministers and other area Pastors support Betty Sawyer Smith for Councilperson At Large of Natchitoches.

Standing from left to right: Altorio R. Holden, Jr., Pastor Altorio R. Holden, Sr., Evangelist Thelma Williams, Rev. Dr.. Ail Harris, Jr., Council At Large Candidate Betty Sawyer Smith, Pastor Steven Harris, Sr., Rev. Dr. Elbert R. Demery, Pastor Dr. Linda King, Pastor Brian Small, Pastor LaRon Winslow, Minister Jacoby Bradley and Pastor Conway Jones.

Let’s continue to move Natchitoches forward in a Progressive Manner.  March 23, 2024, please Vote #36 – Betty Sawyer Smith as your Councilwoman-at-Large.  

A proven voice for all!

Paid for by Betty Sawyer Smith Candidate for Council-at-Large

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I am Harold Bayonne (#33), and I am running for Councilman-at-Large for the fine city of Natchitoches.

When choosing to run for Councilman-at-Large, I have had a very clear vision. Change MUST take place. I have begun the work, I have made it my goal to meet as many of you lovely citizens as I possibly can to hear your goals, visions, needs. I will not slow down. I gain nothing by entering this role with the exception of pride in the opportunity to assist those that cannot speak up for themselves. Becoming a bridge between the City management and its Citizens that is wide open with clear and honest communication, ensuring that the City acts only in the best interest of its Citizens and betterment of our community.

I understand the incredibly difficult position you are charged with this Election Day. Navigating the deluge of information across multiple platforms poses a challenge. One candidate makes a statement, and the other refutes it, often embellishing their narrative to accuse those not currently holding office of dishonesty and deception. Let me be clear: I haven’t made promises beyond leading our community as your Councilman-at-Large and executing the role with unmatched dedication, always prioritizing your interests above all else.

I ask you to think of these questions and let your heart and your prayers allow you to vote the vote that is necessary for our City.

QUESTION:

Why is a majority of the community only now learning of a second utility rate increase happening May 1 (voted upon by the Council more than 2 years ago)?

• Because candidates (not part of our current City Management) have alerted you to this. Regardless if it was a one time vote, our utilities are being increased TWICE against our permission and there was no clear definition when implemented.
• Why didn’t your Council-at-Large vote on behalf of each of you, instead she voted to tax your pocketbook without proper representation. In addition, did your Council-at-Large alert you to these increases, advise you how these increase(s) would be implemented? Advise you on how much your utilities would increase? Advise you on what you can do should you incur a hardship?

QUESTION:

Why when we can clearly SEE crime running rampant in our community, is the narrative “crime is down 30%’ and when pushed to explain the narrative changed to: it is down 30% ‘in certain categories’? What are these categories exactly? JWalking? Littering?

• Due to lack of efficient and effective management.
• What has your Council-at-Large done to make you feel safer in your home, in your business and in your community? Has she visited you when you’ve experienced a crime whether it was violent or not?

QUESTION:

Pertinent information to reflect the proper and efficient management of the city is to be available to the public, both on-line and in person, yet it is not. How are we to know that City Management is being fiscally responsible with our money?

• The city boasts grants, pay raises (paid by the citizens through utility rate increases), crime reduction, etc. yet show no tangible proof due to lack of efficient and effective management.
• What has your Council-at-Large done to prove to you that the City is being fiscally responsible with your money?

QUESTION:

Why only in the last few months have we seen the City making necessary improvements?

• Because they are wishing to woo you with their ‘accomplishments’. Why only now and not consistently over the last 4 years? Due to lack of efficient and effective management.
• What has your Council-at-Large done to improve your quality of life?

While I cannot personally rescind the Utility Rate increase that is coming down upon us May 1, when elected it (and crime) will be my main focus. I vow to work closely with the Council and City Management to ensure that this fiscal irresponsibility is corrected, immediately. In addition, I have spent much time educating myself on how to pass an Ordinance that will insure that future increases may not happen without a vote by the citizens, vs giving permission to the City to arbitrarily hit our pocket book when they wish to have cash flow.

Let us be wise in our decision this Saturday. Do NOT stay home, do not think that your vote doesn’t count. Take pride in your voice. Let us make the necessary changes.

Elect me, Harold Bayonne #33, to represent you, your family and your voice. I promise to be active, present, alert and available to you as a Councilman-at-Large is meant to be. I truly only want to see each Citizen in this community thriving and enjoying the quality of life they deserve.

I love you, Natchitoches! Vote #33, Harold Bayonne to be your next Councilman-at-Large

Election Day is THIS Saturday, March 23 from 7am – 8pm

Paid for by Harold Bayonne for Councilman-at-Large

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There was nary an empty spot on the dance floor when the iconic Johnny Earthquake & the Moondogs, a fixture on the Louisiana music scene for over 25 years, brought their high energy act to the 2024 Alexandria Downtown Rocks festival Thursday, March 21.

The Moondogs were the opening act of three concerts of the Downtown Rocks series. The concerts take place in downtown Alexandria and are free to the public. Rouge Krewe will be playing April 4 and Chris Ardoin on April 18. From Classic Rock to Zydeco, there is indeed something for every taste at Alexandria Downtown Rocks.

The Alexandria Downtown Rocks concerts are a lead-in to the popular Riverfete, held in May and Winterfete, held during the Christmas season. These three events are all open to the public for no charge and provide quality family-oriented entertainment for each season of the year

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Interested in working for Lexington Independents, a dynamic and growing Contract Food Services company at our client’s school, The Louisiana School of Math and Science in Natchitoches, LA?

We are looking to hire a Food Service Director to help oversee and train our team and support our client.

This role offers a great quality of life, no late nights and off most weekends. Also, this unit is closed for the summer and holidays. We also offer competitive benefits such as medical, dental, vision, 401K and more.

Lexington Independents is part of Elior North America’s family of companies. Throughout independent schools and in partnership with educators, students, and parents, we are focused on a constant evolution of food and making a difference to life at school.

If interested, please reach out to Matthew Levy, our Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, to learn more: matthew.levy@elior-na.com

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That slogan has been a marketing vehicle for my campaign and with election day on the horizon this Saturday, here is a snapshot of what it means to me.

All For One. It is natural – and OK – for citizens of Natchitoches to have differing viewpoints regarding the strengths and weaknesses of our city. In fact, it is healthy. At the end of the day, however, it must be remembered that what is best for Natchitoches must be the priority.

The Councilman-at-Large must live up to the “at-large” title of that position and be the “glue” for all four city districts…and be a leader in determining what is “best for Natchitoches.” If elected, my communication city-wide will stay at an elevated level as it has during this campaign. I will be accessible and transparent. I will be prompt in answering phone calls (318-663-5459) and email (gsjb1022@gmail).

One For All. Our city must be inclusive and beneficial for all. “All,” while perhaps not all-encompassing, includes our senior citizens, who are the foundation of Natchitoches, as well as retirees who’ve moved here…the hard-working citizens, who do that day in and day out…the younger generation, who are our future leaders and hopefully stay here to one day lead our city…college students, who bring vitality and fresh perspective to our community…and the youth of Natchitoches, who need options and opportunities which provide the right path towards adulthood,  especially as it relates to education, mentoring and extracurricular activities

The Councilman-at-Large must value and connect with each of those groups by being visible, accessible, and most importantly, a good listener. After listening to the citizens (something I have already been doing for the past two months), my role is to be the voice of the community to the mayor and city council.

All For Natchitoches. At the end of the day, if Natchitoches wins, we all win. For Natchitoches to reach its maximum potential, strong leadership is necessary. The Councilman-at-Large must be active, informed, transparent and somebody who can collaborate with a broad spectrum of individuals (I did that as an Athletic Director) to achieve change and help lead our city to “victories” in areas which are critical to the future of Natchitoches (crime, infrastructure, economic growth, workforce development and a strong university to name some top of list items).

I have enjoyed meeting and sharing my vision to be the next Natchitoches Councilman-at-Large with many Natchitoches citizens. I humbly ask for your vote this Saturday at your regular polling location (voting is not held at the courthouse on election day) from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. For more information, call the Registrar of Voters office at 357-2211 or check the geauxvote.com app.

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Last Sunday I saw it for the first time. At first, I didn’t know where that dust was coming from that I found on the windshield when I crawled behind the wheel preparing to head to church. Then I noticed the light golden color of the tiny flecks of dust. It hit me.

Pollen. Pine pollen.

Glancing at the ends of the branches of the hundreds of loblolly pines in my yard, I saw the swollen buds, locked and loaded to dump their load of aggravating yellow dust with no concern as to where their loads would land.

Pine pollen is produced by male pine cones, just trying out their masculinity I suppose. Some people are allergic to pine pollen, the same people are also likely to have allergic reactions to grass pollen. The culprit for most who experience bouts of hay fever in spring comes from pollen produced and released by oaks, hickories, rag weed and other such plants. 

My wife enjoys opening the windows during spring to take advantage of nice comforting breezes. However, once the first bit of pollen is seen, she is not happy because this means she has to wait until pollen season ends in a few weeks to be able to open windows. By then, it’s starting to warm up too much to enjoy the pleasant springtime breezes.

Keeping windows open during pollen season is to invite yellow dust to make itself at home on the couch, chairs, tabletops, carpet, floors et al.

The stuff is indiscriminate; it cares not a bit that when it comes into your home uninvited; it’s like the obnoxious cousin, Randy Quaid in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation who comes to visit with wife and kids disrupting family plans and is in no hurry to leave.

As much as we despise the hated yellow powder, the Internet has discovered and shares a number of reasons why we should give it some love.

Believe it or not, pine pollen has health benefits with research suggesting pine pollen has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains a natural anti-depressant that stimulates dopamine levels in the brain.

Wait, here’s more. Pine pollen can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. Here’s a good one; pine pollen is especially beneficial for men because it contains high levels of testosterone. It can bolster your immunity to anti-aging as well as reducing fatigue, regulating metabolism, lowering blood pressure and protects the liver.

It can be used for the topical treatment of eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis and other dry, itchy, flaky or inflamed skin conditions.

These research sources are suggesting that maybe we should give pine pollen more love because of all its benefits instead of treating it like a bad case of the flu.

As for me, it’s just too hard to create pleasant pictures in my mind of all the nice things this stuff can do while it’s coating my car, my driveway, my porch with that obnoxious yellow dust.

Even with all these good things pine pollen can do, I still don’t like it.

Contact Glynn at glynnharris37@aol.com

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Natchitoches, Louisiana – Engage Federal Credit Union proudly announces the expansion of our community development efforts through the innovative Wheels to Work initiative. This groundbreaking program is designed to empower community members facing transportation barriers due to low credit scores by providing an opportunity to obtain an auto loan where traditional financial institutions may not offer them one.

Understanding the significant challenge posed by the lack of public transportation in Natchitoches Parish, Engage FCU has stepped forward to offer a lifeline to those in need. The Wheels to Work program offers loans up to $15,000 plus tax, title, and license with a fixed interest rate, removing the barrier of minimum credit score requirements. This initiative not only facilitates access to reliable transportation for work but also opens a pathway for members to improve their credit standing.

Engage FCU’s commitment to the Natchitoches community goes beyond traditional banking services. By introducing the Wheels to Work program, we aim to directly address and mitigate a critical obstacle faced by many in our community – the inability to secure transportation for employment due to credit challenges. This program exemplifies our dedication to fostering economic growth and stability by ensuring that community members have the means to get to and from work, thereby enhancing their quality of life.

In addition to Wheels to Work, Engage FCU’s extensive involvement with local organizations and initiatives, including the Veterans’ Division of Workforce Development, the Women’s Resource Center, Natchitoches Parish Library, Coach De Foundation, and the Ben D. Johnson Educational Program, underscores our holistic approach to community development. Our team’s active participation in platforms like the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor’s Health and Wellness Council, Kiwanis, NHDDC, Natchitoches Work Summit Committee, and the Natchitoches Young Professionals reflects our deep commitment to leading and supporting our community’s growth.

“At Engage Federal Credit Union, we’re all about supporting our community. We’re really involved in local groups and projects, showing just how dedicated we are to Natchitoches. We’re not just a credit union; we’re a team player in making our community better, working closely with community members and organizations around here to create a better future for everyone.” said Holly Guillory, COO, at Engage FCU.

Engage Federal Credit Union invites the community to learn more about the Wheels to Work program and our other initiatives aimed at promoting growth, wellness, and prosperity in Natchitoches. Together, we are driving positive change and building a stronger community for all.

For more information about our community involvement, the Wheels to Work program, and other services, please visit http://www.engagefcu.org or follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn.

About Engage Federal Credit Union:

Engage Federal Credit Union is dedicated to serving the financial needs of the Natchitoches community, offering a wide range of financial products and services designed to empower our members. With a strong focus on community development, Engage FCU is committed to making a positive impact through active involvement and support of local initiatives and organizations.

Contact:
Engage Federal Credit Union
256 HWY 3175
Natchitoches, Louisiana
www.engagefcu.org
318-238-7762

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Office Building for Lease:

Size: 2 story / 2,170 Square Feet; Downstairs: 3 offices, file room and 2 bathrooms; Upstairs: 1 office, conference room, kitchen and 1 bathroom
Term: Lease – 1 year minimum
Lease Rate: $2,200.00 per month  NOW $2,000.00

Location: 101 Hazel Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana

For more information and/or a showing, please contact, 318-663-9077 or 318-471-9955

Serious Inquiries Only

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