For all Natchitoches Parish Citizens that were summoned to Jury Service for Monday October 19, 2026, the jury is canceled.
All business set for this jury term has been settled.
Your obligation is complete and nothing further is needed from you.
The 10th JDC appreciates your service.
David Stamey
Clerk of Court Natchitoches Parish
318-352-8152
NSU Choirs to Present Free Fall Concert Oct. 25
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University’s Lyrica and Orpheus choirs will present their fall concert, “Songs Along the Way,” Sunday, Oct. 25, at 3 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall.
Conducted by Adam Philley, the program will feature music from different cultures, languages and historical periods, including works by Schubert and selections inspired by Korean and Latin American musical traditions.
The concert will conclude with a combined performance of Moses Hogan’s arrangement of “Ride On, King Jesus.”
Admission is free, and the performance will be livestreamed through the university’s Creative and Performing Arts program.
NSU Spirit Groups Perform at Natchitoches Parish Fair Opening
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University’s Purple Pizzazz Pomline, Demon Dazzlers and Cheerleading team participated in opening ceremonies for the 2026 Natchitoches Parish Fair on Wednesday, Oct. 14.
The three student groups performed routines for community members gathered at the parish fairgrounds, joining other local performers in celebrating the annual event.
The university’s spirit organizations regularly participate in athletic events, campus programs and community activities.
Natchitoches Parish Schools Conclude Fall Break Friday
Natchitoches Parish School Board
Natchitoches Parish public schools remain closed Friday, Oct. 16, for the final day of the district’s scheduled fall break.
The break began Monday, Oct. 12, and continues through Friday, Oct. 16. Classes are scheduled to resume Monday, Oct. 19.
The district’s calendar also lists Tuesday, Nov. 3, as an Election Day holiday, when schools will be closed. Thanksgiving break is scheduled for Nov. 23-27.
NSU Announces Campus Activities for Oct. 18-24
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University has announced several campus activities for Oct. 18-24, including concerts, athletics and community programs.
A Brass Ensemble Concert is scheduled Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 7:30 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall. Wednesday’s activities include the Quarterback Club luncheon at Flying Heart Brewery at 11:30 a.m. and volleyball against Lamar at 6:30 p.m. in Prather Coliseum.
An NSU Food Pantry donation drive is scheduled Thursday, Oct. 22, at the Trisler Power Plant on Central Avenue.
Additional Homecoming activities are scheduled Friday and Saturday.
St. Anne’s Church to Host Gumbo Supper and Bingo Nov. 14
St. Anne’s Church
St. Anne’s Church on Old River in Natchez will host its annual Gumbo Supper and Bingo on Saturday, Nov. 14, at the church hall.
Food service begins at 5 p.m., with bingo scheduled to start around 6 p.m. The menu includes homemade gumbo, meat pies and desserts.
The annual fundraiser brings community members together for food, fellowship and family entertainment while supporting the church.
Golden Star Chapter to Host Halloween Trunk or Treat Oct. 31
Golden Star Chapter No. 62
Golden Star Chapter No. 62 will host a Trunk or Treat event Saturday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Ben Johnson Park, 616 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Natchitoches.
The Halloween event will take place in the park’s parking lot, offering children and families an opportunity to enjoy a community celebration.
Golden Star Chapter Plans Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser Saturday
Golden Star Chapter No. 62
Golden Star Chapter No. 62 will hold a Breast Cancer Awareness Month fundraiser Saturday, Oct. 17, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parking lot at 940 Keyser Avenue East in Natchitoches.
Hamburger snack boxes will be sold for $10 each and include a cooked-to-order hamburger, chips, dessert, a small gift and a beverage. The first 24 purchases will also receive a special Breast Cancer Awareness handheld fan.
The fundraiser aims to raise awareness and support for those affected by breast cancer.
Award-Winning Louisiana Architecture Documentary Screening Set for Nov. 11
Louisiana Architecture Foundation
The Louisiana Architecture Foundation, Alexandria Museum of Art and AIA Central Louisiana will host a screening of Ancestral Artistry: The Influence of Africans & Creoles of Color on Louisiana Architecture Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Alexandria Museum of Art, 933 Second St.
The award-winning documentary explores the contributions of enslaved Africans and free people of color to Louisiana’s architectural history.
A panel discussion will follow, featuring Dustin Fuqua of Cane River Creole National Historical Park in Natchitoches and two preservation specialists. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the museum.
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District 3-1A games for St. Mary’s and Lakeview send both teams on the road tonight, but for the Tigers, it’s a home game.
St. Mary’s hosts Jonesboro-Hodge in the first-ever in-season meeting of the schools in football. JHHS records stretch back to 1917.
SMHS and JHHS both are 5-1 overall and are nicknamed Tigers. The local Tigers are 0-1 in district, while the visitors come in 1-0.
The matchup will be played at Lakeview High School just outside of Campti tonight at 7 in a collision that could still help determine the district title, and will pit teams destined for playoff appearances.
Originally scheduled for Turpin Stadium in Natchitoches, the contest was moved to Lakeview High School because of the noon kickoff Saturday for the Demons’ home game against McNeese.
The SMHS Tigers are an impressive 5-1 this year and stand sixth in the LHSAA power rankings for Select Division IV. They were undefeated until last week, when visiting Logansport, ranked seventh in the Non-Select Division IV rankings, blocked a deciding 21-yard field goal attempt on the final play to escape with a 29-28 victory in the 3-1A opener for both teams.
Earlier, St. Mary’s had beaten Vidalia 22-6, Red River 26-20, Menard 46-14, Grant 29-28, and Winnfield 23-14, the same Winnfield team that gave JHHS its only loss of the year by a 48-28 margin. All of these schools are from higher classifications than 1A.
JHHS is also at 5-1, their best record at this point of the season since 2009, and enters the contest ranked ninth in the Non-Select Division IV power rankings. The Tigers also received votes in the most recent LSWA Class 1A top 10 poll, for the first time since making a Class 2A state semifinal appearance in 2021. Victories include Lakeside (14-8), Delhi Charter (50-6), Lincoln Prep (42-20), Arcadia (38-18), and, last week, an impressive 50-0 win over Ringgold.
St. Mary’s averages 29 points per game in a run-based attack that can go up top. The Tigers have run 220 times, compared to 129 passing attempts, and produce 324 total yards per game. John Paul Thibodaux paces the ground game with a 108.7 yards-per-game average and eight touchdowns.
Preston Tilley has completed 63 of 120 passes for 723 yards and 2 TD’s, with Dennis Morgan snagging 24 passes for 307 yards and 3 TD’s. Michael French has 13 catches for 116 yards, and Brady Childress has 7 receptions for 162 yards for a 23.1 yards-per-catch average, including an 83-yard score.
Kane Dortlon leads the SMHS defense (18.5 points-per-game) with 43 stops, including 23 solo tackles, with Jacob Thibodaux close behind with 37 stops and a team-leading four sacks.
LAKEVIEW: The Gators (2-4, 0-1) face a huge challenge, going to Logansport (5-1, 1-0) hoping to spoil their hosts’ homecoming.
Logansport has won the last two meetings by a combined 115-0.
The Gators have dropped their last three games, including last Friday’s district opener at home 44-12 to Montgomery.
After visiting Logansport, Lakeview plays host to St. Mary’s next Friday, then goes to Jonesboro-Hodge.
By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports
Captain Shreve scored 61 points last week in a comeback win over Parkway. Thursday night at Turpin Stadium, the explosive Gators were nursing a slender 7-0 edge over Natchitoches Central.
Then the District 1-5A game went to fast forward mode.
The teams swapped TDs four straight times in a wild stretch starting near the middle of the third quarter and lasting for the next 12 minutes.
Captain Shreve’s defense and Gators’ senior running back Gabe Lockett swung the outcome the visitors’ way in what wound up a 40-27 NCHS loss.
A nine-yard sack of Chiefs’ quarterback Kobe Jones resulted in a three-and-out that gave the Gators the ball, up 33-20 with 5:22 remaining.
Shreve kept running downfield, with Lockett doing most of the damage.
Lockett provided touchdown runs of 1, 72, 1 and 28 yards. Those were part of a career-high 228 rushing yards on 29 carries. That wasn’t all – he tossed a 6-yard halfback pass to Rickeynan Holden on fourth-and-goal for another TD that started Shreve’s push away from a tenuous 26-20 lead as the fourth quarter began.
Lockett’s last touchdown, the 28-yarder, pushed the Gators up 40-20 with 2:33 left. The Chiefs responded again, driving rapidly and cashing in on a 13-yard Jones scramble and Asmden Pasch PAT to get within two scores with under a minute left, but couldn’t convert an onside kick and the visitors ran out the final seconds.
It was Lockett’s third 200-yard output in the last four weeks, as he rose two spots to fifth on the Gators’ career rushing list (exactly 2,100 yards) and up to second (206 points) on the career scoring rankings – no surprise to NCHS coach Brad Laird.
“Gabe, we’ve seen him for three years now. I had a chance to meet him Monday night out of uniform (at the Shreve-NCHS freshman and junior varsity games in Shreveport), and as good as he is in uniform on game nights, he’s just that good as a young man representing his school and family,” said Laird. “And he’s pretty dang good with the ball in his hands.”
The Chiefs (0-7, 0-3) weren’t an easy out.
“We played hard. We battled to the end,” said Laird, “but you want them to feel that victory at the end, and we weren’t able to do it. Give credit to Captain Shreve.”
Along with curtailing Captain Shreve’s offense in the first two-and-a-half quarters, NCHS moved the ball itself in the frantic second-half stretch. The Chiefs got on the board on Jace Prelow’s 10-yard TD from Jones with 4:09 left in the third quarter (down 14-6), then answered the visitors’ next score with a David Newton 37-yard run and Pasch extra point with 1:31 showing to get within 20-13.
Lockett’s fourth-down TD toss came next on the first play of the fourth period, but NCHS wasted no time getting back within a score when Jones sneaked in from the 1 just over a minute later to close within 26-20.
But Lockett’s next two scoring runs sandwiched the three-and-out by NCHS (0-7, 0-3) down the stretch. It was the third time this season Shreve (4-3, 2-2) has scored on at least five straight possessions.
“We wore them down a bit and we were able to run the football,” said Gators coach Jeremy Wilburn, a former NSU player and graduate assistant coach.
“That’s been the tune. We’ve responded in the third and fourth quarters when we’ve had good games. If we can continue that and put a first half with it, we’ll be alright.”
Laird had no gripes with his injury-riddled, young team’s effort.
“They’re showing improvement. They’re battling. They’re going to keep doing that,” he said. “You saw a team that prepared itself, and the guys who were healthy and out here playing competed their butts off.
“We’re going to win. We’re going to turn that corner. Our guys are giving great effort and doing good things, but need to do it consistently through four quarters.”
NCHS heads to Benton next Friday.
Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com
A long homefield undefeated streak ended for the Northwestern State soccer team Thursday night, while the Demons’ volleyball team continued its recent rise with a dominant win at Nicholls.
The Lady Demons tennis team and the cross country teams resume their fall seasons today on the road.
SOCCER: A second half flurry from Houston Christian was the difference in a 3-1 Northwestern loss to the Huskies on Thursday evening at the Demon Soccer Complex.
NSU (7-7. 4-2) saw its school-record 15-match home unbeaten streak come to an end, falling almost exactly two years to the day of the last home loss.
The Huskies (7-3-5, 3-0-3) used three goals in a span of 10 minutes to turn a Demons lead into an HCU road win, their 10th straight game without a loss dating back to the beginning of September.
“I thought we were brilliant in the first half,” head coach Ian Brophy said. “We obviously let the second half get away from us and started to lose the physical matchups a little bit. Some of their goals were just silly little defending mistakes that I thought we could do a lot better on. All 11 players have to stay focused for all 90 minutes.”
HCU moved into a tie with the Demons and UIW for second place behind Lamar. NSU won’t play again until next Thursday.
VOLLEYBALL: Elsie Sanchez had 13 kills while Elizabeth Murgurza Rebollo had a career high 10 to lead the Demons past the Nicholls Colonels 3-0 (25-18, 25-18 and 25-19) Thursday night in Thibodaux.
The Demons (12-10, 4-3 SLC) also got 33 assists from Jade Longlad while Emmarie McFarland had 17 digs. Amber Craig added eight kills to pace the offense as NSU finished the night hitting .311 (44-11-106).
“Today was a very dominant match for us,” said Longlad. “We played our game to our fullest and I’m proud of how we kept the pressure on them both offensively and defensively. We grow more and more every game and today is another showcase of what we’re capable of even in someone else’s gym.”
The Colonels’ (9-11, 2-5 SLC) offense hit just .112 (30-18, 107) for the match.
NSU plays Saturday afternoon in Lake Charles against the McNeese Cowgirls (7-11, 3-4 SLC).
TENNIS: After a one-week break, Northwestern opens the second half of its fall season today at the three-day-long Bearkat Invitational hosted by Sam Houston.
CROSS COUNTRY: Following a two-week break from outside competition, the NSU teams run this morning in Jackson, Miss., at the Watson Cross Country Classic. The men’s 8K begins at 8 a.m. and women’s 6K starts at 8:45 a.m. in the event hosted by Mississippi College.
Phonetic: /hack·neyed/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
lacking in freshness or originality
not interesting, funny, etc., because of being used too often : not fresh or original
Size: 1 story / 1,300 Square Feet (approx.). New Driveway, paint inside/out, new flooring and blinds.
Term: Lease – 1 year minimum
Lease Rate: $2,500.00
Location: 301 Church Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana
For more information and/or a showing, please contact, 318-471-9955
Serious Inquiries Only
NSU Receives $1.5 Million Grant to Help Preserve Historic Sites
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University Technical Services has received a $1.5 million National Park Foundation grant to help assess flooding risks to historic sites in the National Park Service’s Southeast Region.
The two-year project, conducted with the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training on NSU’s campus, will use geographic information systems, laser scanning and 3D modeling to evaluate threats to historic buildings and landscapes.
The research will contribute to a National Cultural Resource Risk Atlas, helping preservation officials identify vulnerable sites and develop protection plans. Funding will also support equipment upgrades, additional personnel and student internship opportunities.
Downtown Riverbank to Close Saturday for Farmers Market
City of Natchitoches
The City of Natchitoches advises motorists that the downtown riverbank will be closed to vehicular traffic Saturday, Oct. 17, from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Natchitoches Farmers Market.
The market is scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon. Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly when traveling downtown during the closure.
Partial Riverbank Closure Friday for Community Movie Night
City of Natchitoches
The City of Natchitoches has announced a partial downtown riverbank road closure Friday, Oct. 16, in preparation for Community Movie Night.
The riverbank will be closed to vehicular traffic from the Church Street bridge to the north side of the stage beginning at 6 a.m. The closure will remain in effect until the event concludes Friday night.
Motorists are encouraged to plan alternate routes and use caution when traveling downtown.
NSU to Open Child Welfare Simulation Lab Nov. 4
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University will hold a grand opening for its Child Welfare Simulation Lab at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, in Suite 318 of Kyser Hall.
The facility, described as the first of its kind in northern Louisiana, features a realistic home environment where students and professionals can develop practical skills for working with children and families.
The lab is part of the Louisiana Title IV-E Child Welfare Program and is designed to strengthen professional training and workforce development. Visitors can tour the facility and learn about its educational applications. Those interested in attending may contact Dr. Jennifer Shaw at shawj@nsula.edu.
Pumpkin Patch at Pecan Row Welcomes Visitors This Weekend
Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Pumpkin Patch at Pecan Row, 743 Highway 478 in Natchitoches, will welcome visitors Friday through Sunday, Oct. 16-18, for seasonal activities.
Friday’s hours are 4-7 p.m., with Saturday’s activities scheduled from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday’s from 2-6 p.m.
Admission is $10, and children receive a free small pumpkin. The attraction offers pumpkins and family-oriented fall activities throughout the season, with weekend openings continuing during October.
NSU Football to Host McNeese Saturday at Turpin Stadium
Northwestern State University Athletics
Northwestern State University’s football team will host McNeese State University at noon Saturday, Oct. 17, at Turpin Stadium in Natchitoches.
The Southland Conference matchup renews an in-state rivalry between the Demons and Cowboys. The game is designated as a White Out, presented by the Louisiana Lottery and Coca-Cola.
The contest is among several activities scheduled around the university this weekend, including the Top of the Boot Music Festival on Friday and Saturday.
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Week 7 of the Natchitoches Parish Journal’s annual High School Football Pick ’Em contest is underway, giving local fans another chance to test their gridiron knowledge and win cash.
Each week, the contest features 10 selected matchups highlighting Natchitoches Parish high schools and marquee regional games. The second round of competition concludes Friday, Oct. 16, so make your selections before kickoff to get in the game.
Each weekly winner will take home $100 and be featured with a photo in the Journal.
Participants can submit their picks online through the NPJ platform throughout the season to see who truly reigns as the top football prognosticator in Natchitoches Parish.
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Contest Rules & Details
With the LHSAA’s playoff system based not on district standings but power points, the Natchitoches Central Chiefs have the chance to mount a charge toward postseason over the last four games.
Tonight is a key contest for that ambition as NCHS (0-6 overall, 0-2 in District 1-5A) plays host to Captain Shreve (3-3, 1-2) at 7 o’clock in Turpin Stadium.
The Chiefs stand 33rd in the Non-Select Division I power rankings. The top 28 teams make it to the playoffs. The Gators are 13th in Select Division I, so a win tonight will provide NCHS with a very beneficial boost in their power ranking.
After losing its first two district games, including 46-0 at home to Evangel two weeks ago, Captain Shreve was on the brink of collapse last Friday, trailing visiting Parkway 34-13 at halftime. The Gators, coached by former NSU player and graduate assistant coach Jeremy Wilburn, erupted in the final two quarters for a 61-48 victory.
The Chiefs have weathered a very challenging non-district schedule and in their two district games have demonstrated encouraging signs.
Despite missing 10 starters due to injury, they came within three points of Airline (32-29) in their District 1-5A opener two weeks ago before losing 63-28 last week at co-league leader Evangel. Natchitoches Central has averaged 28.5 points per game in the last two games after averaging 15.5 the first four. Senior running back David Newton had scoring runs of 72 and 70 yards against Evangel.
Daygen Johnson, a senior, leads the defense with 64 tackles, an average of 10.7 per game. Junior Bryce Smith is next with 58 stops. Derrick Sowell leads the defense with seven tackles for loss, three sacks and 38 total.
Captain Shreve has run for 100 or more yards in 44 consecutive games. The last time they failed to gain more than 100 was against Natchitoches Central in 2022.
Shreve tailback Gabe Lockett has posted 200-yard rushing outputs twice in the last three games, topped by 214 yards against Haughton.
Captain Shreve and Natchitoches Central will play for the 46th time with the Gators holding a 27-18 advantage. NCHS has an 11-10 edge in the series in games played at Turpin.
Shreve coach Wilburn was a safety playing under NCHS coach Brad Laird at Northwestern, then became a graduate assistant coach on Bradley Dale Peveto’s NSU staff, working on defense when Laird was defensive coordinator.
The game will be streamed at NCHSChiefs.live and broadcast at 100.7 KZBL FM with Brad Ford and Dane Terrell on the call.
While revenge may not be the right word, the league-leading Northwestern State soccer team wants to even the score against Houston Christian tonight at the Demon Soccer Complex.
After winning the Southland Conference regular season crown a season ago, the Demons were upended 2-1 against HCU in the conference tournament semifinals and the Huskies went onto win the tournament title and earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Kickoff this evening between Northwestern (7-6 overall, 4-1 in the SLC) and HCU (6-3-5, 2-0-3) is at 7 o’clock with ESPN+ coverage available.
“I don’t know about revenge, but we definitely want to set things straight,” NSU coach Ian Brophy said. “We have some real motivation to make this thing work and really motivated to defend home turf and get out of here with a win.”
Once again, the teams are fighting for the SLC regular season title.
The Demons are tied with UIW atop the league with 12 points and HCU needs to win in order to keep pace. While the Huskies are the only SLC team without a conference loss, they need wins to stay alive in the regular season title chase.
Due to the wins over East Texas A&M and AMCC and only surrendering one goal, goalkeeper Audrey Marfia was named Southland Conference Goalkeeper of the Week for the second time in three weeks.
NSU is back at home where it feels most comfortable. The Demons have gone a school-record 15 consecutive games without losing in front of the home fans, a streak that dates back two years.
In addition to 15 straight unbeaten games at home, NSU has won in its last nine at the Demon Soccer Complex.
HCU has been a tough test for the Demons, as not only did the Huskies beat the Demons in the conference tournament last year but also has gone 4-1-1 against NSU since the start of the 2022 season.
“They are tough to beat,” Brophy said. “They work really hard and are tough to score on and they are dangerous as well, so they are good at possession, similar to us. It will be a good offensive game and who takes their chances and plays their futbol the best.”
VOLLEYBALL: Northwestern hits the road this week starting today when it takes on the Nicholls Colonels at 6:30 p.m. in Stopher Gymnasium in Thibodaux.
The Demons (11-10, 3-3 SLC) are coming off a nice win Saturday afternoon at home over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. NSU was able to snap a 15-set and five-game losing streak against the Islanders with the win led by Elsie Sanchez with 14 kills and Jade Longlad’s 41 assists. The win allowed the Demons to finish the four-game homestand 2-2.
“We were pretty gritty in that match,” said NSU head coach Ben Kaszeta. “And the way we were able to find a way to adjust into something different, that’s hard. Corpus Christi was fast and once we learned to adjust to that speed we took off from there. And then set four, we didn’t let up which is something we have been working on later in matches to play with the right intensity.”
The Colonels are 9-10 overall and 2-4 in conference matches.
The Demons are led by Sanchez with 3.37 kills per set. Sanchez is second in the Southland in total kills at 236.
NSU’s Jade Longlad, a senior setter, continues to lead the conference in total assists (676) and is second in assists per set (9.52) behind UT-Rio Grande Valley’s Lana Rnjak (9.55 aps).
Sophomore Emmarie McFarland leads the league in total digs (353) and is fourth in digs per set (4.64). McFarland has 10 or more digs in 20 of 21 matches this season.
Phonetic: /ex·cul·pate/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
to clear from alleged fault or guilt
to prove that someone is not guilty of doing something wrong
The court exculpated him after a thorough investigation.
NSU Honor Society Hosts Fundraising Event Wednesday
Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau
Members of Northwestern State University’s Graduate Psi Chi Honor Society will host Canvas & Company from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026.
The event will support Empower Nepali Girls and flood recovery efforts. Organizers are bringing community members together for an evening of food and fellowship while drawing attention to the charitable initiatives.
NSU Offers Painting Classes Thursday and Oct. 29
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University’s Office of Electronic Learning and Global Engagement will offer Pick Up Your Brush painting classes Thursday, Oct. 15, and Oct. 29 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the second floor of South Hall.
The Oct. 15 project is titled “Blushing Scarecrow,” while the Oct. 29 class will feature “Corny Cornucopia.”
Each session costs $45 and includes supplies. No previous painting experience is required, and participants will take home their completed artwork.
Children ages 7-12 may participate when accompanied by a parent throughout the class. Parents are not required to enroll unless they also paint.
Registration is available through NSU’s continuing education program. Additional information is available at 318-357-6355.
Natchitoches Parish Fair Continues Through Saturday
Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Natchitoches Parish Fair continues through Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Natchitoches Parish Fairgrounds, 454 Fairgrounds Road.
The annual event, which began Sunday, Oct. 11, features carnival rides, entertainment, food vendors, exhibits and activities for families.
Residents and visitors can find additional information about fair activities through the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau.
NSU Chamber Choir Presents Fall Concert
Northwestern State University
Northwestern State University’s Chamber Choir was scheduled to present its fall concert, “We Tell Each Other Stories,” Tuesday, Oct. 13, in Magale Recital Hall. The program featured musical selections from various cultures, exploring the role of music in storytelling. The choir was conducted by Director of Choral Activities Dr. Shane Thomas, with Dan Ley serving as collaborative pianist. The Chamber Choir is NSU’s premier choral ensemble and is scheduled to perform at Carnegie Hall in April 2027.
Pianist Kenneth Saxon to Perform at NSU Wednesday
Northwestern State University
Pianist Kenneth Saxon will present a free guest recital Wednesday, Oct. 14, at 7:30 p.m. in Northwestern State University’s Magale Recital Hall. The performance will feature works by Beethoven, Alexina Louie, Claude Debussy, Edvard Grieg and Maurice Ravel. Saxon, a professor of music at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has performed internationally and is recognized for his wide-ranging repertoire. The recital will also be livestreamed at nsu.la/capa-live.
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For many people, applying for a loan can feel like being reduced to a number.
A credit score may be part of the lending process, but it does not always tell the full story of a person’s financial situation.
Someone may have experienced a job change, medical expense, divorce, unexpected repair or other setback that affected their credit. Another person may simply have a limited credit history because they have not used traditional financial products very often.
That does not mean their current financial need is any less real.
Better Finance believes that is why a conversation still matters.
For more than 60 years, the company has worked with customers in Northwest Louisiana by taking the time to understand why they need financing, what their circumstances are and whether a loan can be structured appropriately.
That personal approach can be especially important for people who feel overlooked by larger or more automated financial systems.
Today, many lending decisions begin online. An applicant enters information, a computer reviews the data and a decision may be made with little or no personal interaction.
Technology can make financial services more convenient, but convenience and understanding are not always the same thing.
Sometimes a borrower needs the opportunity to explain the situation.
Perhaps a vehicle needs to be repaired so someone can continue getting to work.
Perhaps several existing payments have become difficult to manage.
Perhaps a family faces a medical expense, school expense or household need that was not part of the monthly budget.
The circumstances can be very different from one customer to the next.
Better Finance’s approach is to begin by listening.
That conversation does not guarantee that every loan will be approved. Responsible lending requires evaluating whether a loan is appropriate and whether the borrower can reasonably handle the repayment.
But it does mean the customer has an opportunity to discuss the need with someone who understands that financial lives are rarely as simple as a single number on a report.
For consumers who do not have a strong relationship with a traditional bank or financial institution, that conversation can be particularly valuable.
A past financial problem does not necessarily describe where someone is today.
A limited credit history does not necessarily describe someone’s ability to work, earn an income or meet future obligations.
And an unexpected financial need does not always arrive at a convenient time.
Better Finance has built its business around personal relationships and local lending, with financing available for qualified borrowers for a variety of needs.
The first step does not have to be complicated.
Sometimes it simply starts with explaining what you need and asking what options may be available.
To learn more about Better Finance and its lending options, visit CoushattaFinance.com or contact the Better Finance office in Coushatta.
This is a paid advertorial provided on behalf of Better Finance. Loan approval, terms and availability are subject to Better Finance lending requirements and applicable laws.
By Journal Staff
There is something truly magical about bringing Louisiana communities together to celebrate what makes our state so vibrant, welcoming and unique.
Over the past few weeks, the Parish Journals of Louisiana had the privilege of partnering with Paige Alost and the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission, alongside Rebecca Blankenbaker and the Cane River National Heritage Area, to help promote a one-of-a-kind regional celebration: Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: Natchitoches Celebrates Dolly Parton.
From the moment planning began, our mission was simple: rally readers from across North and Central Louisiana and share the charm, history, and warmth of Natchitoches.
Today, we could not be prouder of the overwhelming response.
Throughout the multi-week promotional campaign, our readers answered the call in record numbers:
Beyond the numbers, what stood out most was the enthusiasm of our neighbors. Whether reading in Lincoln, Webster, Rapides, Jackson, Shreveport-Bossier, or right at home in Natchitoches Parish, readers embraced the chance to support and visit a premier Louisiana destination.
Events like Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend demonstrate the enduring spirit of local community. Partnering with dedicated leaders like Paige Alost and Rebecca Blankenbaker reminds us of the power of collaboration between local tourism organizations and local community journalism.
To the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission and the Cane River National Heritage Area: thank you for trusting us to help tell your story. And to our readers across Louisiana: thank you for supporting community events and continuing to make our parish news network your daily home.
We were honored to play a part in this unforgettable celebration—and we look forward to many more to come.
Week 7 of the Natchitoches Parish Journal’s annual High School Football Pick ’Em contest is underway, giving local fans another chance to test their gridiron knowledge and win cash.
Each week, the contest features 10 selected matchups highlighting Natchitoches Parish high schools and marquee regional games. The second round of competition concludes Friday, Oct. 16, so make your selections before kickoff to get in the game.
Each weekly winner will take home $100 and be featured with a photo in the Journal.
Participants can submit their picks online through the NPJ platform throughout the season to see who truly reigns as the top football prognosticator in Natchitoches Parish.
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Contest Rules & Details
Phonetic: /toc·sin/
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition
an alarm bell or the ringing of it
a warning signal
Chamber Choir Fall Concert Tonight
Northwestern State University
The NSU Chamber Choir will present its fall concert, “We Tell Each Other Stories,” at 7:30 p.m. tonight in Magale Recital Hall. The program draws on repertoire from many cultures built around music’s role in storytelling. Director of Choral Activities Shane Thomas conducts, with Dan Ley as collaborative pianist. Admission is free, with a livestream at nsu.la/capa-live.
The Chamber Choir is Northwestern State’s flagship choral ensemble, an auditioned mixed chorus that has competed across the United States and Europe and performed at state, regional and national conventions. Its 2026-27 season includes the Christmas Gala and Lessons and Carols at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in December, a Louisiana tour in January and a featured performance at Carnegie Hall in April.
Guest Pianist Kenneth Saxon Performs Wednesday
Northwestern State University
Pianist Kenneth Saxon will present a guest recital at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, in Magale Recital Hall. The program includes works by Beethoven, Alexina Louie, Debussy, Grieg and Ravel. Admission is free, with a livestream at nsu.la/capa-live.
Saxon is professor of music at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and has performed on three continents, with recent appearances in Costa Rica, Sri Lanka and India. He has premiered works by Gary Smoke, Justin Writer and Kawai Shiu, and his recording of Rachmaninoff’s Preludes, Op. 32, was praised by MusicWeb-International for its “fineness of touch.” He often introduces pieces with a short story about them. His book “Steps to Success” is a sight-reading guide.
Free Movie Night on the Riverbank Friday
City of Natchitoches
The City of Natchitoches and the Natchitoches Parish Library will host a free community movie night at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, on the riverbank. Attendees are asked to bring lawn chairs or blankets along with their own candy, popcorn, snacks and drinks. No glass bottles are allowed.
Halloween Week Shapes Up Downtown
City of Natchitoches; Golden Star Chapter No. 62
Several Halloween events are set for the end of the month.
Pumpkin Glow runs from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, on the downtown riverbank, with decorated pumpkins displayed by local organizations and individuals and performances by area orchestras, dance groups and community organizations on the riverbank stage.
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church holds its annual fall fair Oct. 30 through Nov. 1, with a hayride starting in the church parking lot Oct. 30.
On Saturday, Oct. 31, Witch Way to Main Street runs from 10 a.m. to noon alongside the farmers market downtown. Children 12 and younger in costume, accompanied by an adult, can trick-or-treat at sponsored booths. That afternoon, Golden Star Chapter No. 62 holds a Trunk or Treat from 4 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot at Ben Johnson Park, 616 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Whistling Duck Harvest Reports Due by Oct. 26
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Hunters who obtained a black-bellied whistling duck permit must report their effort and harvest by Oct. 26, whether or not they hunted. The reporting window opened Oct. 12 at louisianaoutdoors.com/bbwd-report. The special season, Louisiana’s first for the species, ran Oct. 3-11 with a daily limit of four birds.
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BATON ROUGE, La. — The Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana has released its comprehensive guide analyzing the 10 proposed constitutional amendments scheduled for the fall statewide ballot.
The independent, nonpartisan review is designed to explain the legal background, arguments for and against, and practical effects of each measure so voters can make informed decisions at the polls.
Seven of the 10 proposed changes address Article VII of the Louisiana Constitution, focusing on state and local tax policy, assessment rules, and public finance:
The full PAR report is attached below for review.