Maybe you can’t be at the game tonight. Or you are in the stands, and you want to know how the other schools are doing.

We’ve got you covered, in real time, thanks to the High School Football Scoreboard.

Every local team’s game has the latest updated score for you, available simply by clicking on the Scoreboard graphic. You will see tonight’s menu of games and the current score as reported from the stadium.

It’s free, it’s easy, and it’s available to you from your phone, your laptop or your I-pad. Wherever you are, sitting in the stands at a game or sitting at home, you can get the scores you need right here throughout this high school football season.

(You can also bookmark this link so you can quickly access it all night and every week.)

By DWAIN SPILLMAN JR, Natchitoches Parish Journal

“It’s our next game up, our next challenge,” St. Mary’s head football coach Aaron York said as Week 4 preparation concluded.

The Tigers, at a perfect 3-0 on the early campaign, are set to collide with their fourth straight opponent from a higher classification.

Last week, SMS downed Class 2A Holy Savior Menard in a game where the Tiger defense was the feature in hard-fought victory. In that contest, Tiger defenders Drake Griffin and Ben Bienvenu both returned interceptions for scores.

This week’s opponent, DeQuincy, out of District 5-2A, is 0-3 on the season but will provide quite a formidable obstacle to the path of the local Tigers Thursday night at Turpin Stadium.

“They have a big history of really good football,” York said. “They are a typical south Louisiana team. They have some very athletic kids and we will see some different things, especially on defense. They will also spread the ball around a lot on offense.”

The Calcasieu Parish based Tigers dropped a decision at South Beauregard, 27-6, a week ago and will be on the road for a second straight week. St. Mary’s holds the brief historical advantage over the visitors, winning the last two matchups dating back to 2021.

Subsequently, St. Mary’s will have an off week and will not play in Week 5 of the regular season as Isidore Newman (New Orleans) strangely and oddly recently canceled its visit to meet the East 5th Street crew.

“We definitely look to improve each week,” York concluded. “We have a big challenge against another larger school this week. If we can just get through this one without significant injury and planning for a victory of course, then we will have a week off to fully recover and get ready for the next one.”

That next one, after the much-needed break, will feature the Tigers oening their District 3-1A slate at home with a long-storied and traditionally bitter rival game on October 6 as they are set to entertain LaSalle.

Gators should get used to winning

Lakeview head coach Andy Boone has expected a change in attitude and culture in north Natchitoches Parish when it comes to high school games on the gridiron on Thursday and Friday nights.

Standing at 2-1 heading into a battle with LaSalle Friday night in Olla, Boone’s Gators have found new energy and motivation towards their goal of improvement.

“Winning needs to be normal here,” Boone, in his first season at the helm in Campti, began as he analyzed his Gators’ status during the non-district portion of the 2023 campaign. “They didn’t believe me back in the summer when I told them they would start to be recognized if they worked hard, were dedicated to our goal, and played with the aggression that we have to play with to be successful. Now, it’s exciting for them to see their names in the media.”

The Gators have shown improvement and are starting to appear on the radar of prep analysts across the state. Lakeview boasts two running backs that have caught the eye of enthusiasts through the first three games as Kaleb Collins has recorded 625 yards rushing while Amarion Pierre has amassed 581 yards on the ground. Both running backs surpassed the 200-yard mark in each of the last two weeks.

“In 14 years at Avoyelles, I never experienced that,” Boone continued. “They deserve the recognition and the offensive line is a huge part of that. Those guys have worked hard and are filling the cracks each week and are steadily getting better.

“I am very proud of the work they have put in and we still have a lot to do. But, now, they are seeing the results of what we have been trying to do here, changing a culture to believe in winning.”

Boone added that LaSalle provides the next challenge in the building process. The Tigers are on the upswing as well, tallying three wins in as many outings. LaSalle pummeled opponents to a difference of 123-20 on the scoreboard with eight points being the most scored against their defense in one outing. The Gators won last year’s matchup 28-6.

“We are very optimistic,” a very measured Boone stated. “This is a slow process but the kids are getting better every week. We have come a long way in short time since I arrived here but we also are aware that we really need to take a step up because I know what awaits us in district. LaSalle is the next challenge in taking that step up.”

MILL STREET ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

TIF F

FILING COLUMN: BF (MILL STREET EDD F) 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

City of Natchitoches

On May 8, 2023 the City of Natchitoches levied an ADDITIONAL Sales and Use Tax for Economic Development District F (EDD F) of Two Percent (2%).  In addition to the sales tax increase, the 2% City 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 City of Natchitoches businesses remain at 5.5%

OCTOBER 1, 2023

New Local Sales and Use Tax Rates and City Occupancy Tax

IMPORTANT:  If your business is located in Mill Street EDD F, 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 October sales, rentals, etc.  October 1, 2023.   Any questions concerning the implementation of this tax should be directed to:

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

Advertorial

A unique part of TappedTober Craft Beer and Wine Festival is its beer and wine tasting experience. Festival goers can sample various beer and wine brands along the historic downtown Natchitoches riverbank. Eagle Distributing and Glazers Beer and Beverage help provide familiar new and exciting brews to the festival. If beer isn’t your preference, wines from a variety of regions are also available to sample. Over 50 beer and wine options guarantee there will be something everyone will enjoy.

TappedTober VIPs have an exclusive beer and wine tasting from 2:00 – 3:00 PM. The tasting opens to beer and wine experience participants at 3:00 PM and closes at 5:00 PM. It’s easy to be a part of the early VIP experience, just purchase your VIP passes today! Immerse yourself in the VIP tailgating area that’s loaded with food, games, private restrooms, and the best concert views.

BUY TICKETS NOW – Click Here 

Northwestern State University’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is pleased to announce STEM Day, designed for prospective students to dive into promising career opportunities within STEM fields. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with accomplished faculty and like-minded peers, gaining valuable insights into our diverse range of degree programs. The STEM School encompasses the Department of Biology and Microbiology, the Department of Engineering Technology, the Division of Mathematics, the Department of Physical Science, and the Department of Veterinary Technology.

STEM Day:

• September 29, 2023
• 8:00am – 12:00pm
• Registration is available at https://nsu.la/StemDay
• For high school students in grades 9-12, Northwestern State University’s School of STEM is offering an exceptional opportunity to dive deep into their fields of interest. Through engaging and interactive hands-on demonstrations, students can gain valuable insights into the exciting worlds of STEM. Participants will have the chance to choose from several specialized tracks, in biomedical/microbiology, natural science/ecology, veterinary science, chemistry and physics or mathematics/engineering.
• Act fast! Register today at https://nsu.la/StemDay

With the recent drop in temperatures, it has made us realize that the first day of fall is just around the corner. With fall weather comes lots of outdoor events and festivals, the cooler temps make it much more bearable!

The Christmas in the Park Committee is announcing their intent to have the festival become an all-day event. The committee is having a Pulled Pork Fundraiser on Sunday, October 8th from 11:00am until they are sold out. The plate includes a sandwich, baked beans, chips, dessert and a drink for the cost of $10.00.
More details in the coming weeks! In the meantime if you wish to assist with any of the planning please reach out to Mayor Gayle Cloud.

There will be a political forum held at the Goldonna School on Thursday, September 28th at 6:30. Candidates for Senator, Sheriff, Parish President and Parish Council have been invited. Please make plans to attend this important event.

The Goldonna Baptist Church is busy serving the youngest population of Goldonna. Well, actually they are busy serving the youngest population in the world. Pastor Ben Dupree shared with me that there is only one month left before their packing party for Operation Christmas Child. There is still time to turn in your donations to fill shoe boxes that will be sent globally to various youth. Kingdom Kids kicked off on Wednesday, September 13th. Kingdom Kids will operate every Wednesday along with the Natchitoches Parish School calendar. If school is in, chances are Kingdom Kids is in session enjoying a full meal, a Bible lesson and singing.

The River of Life Family Worship Center will be holding a Men’s Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, October 21st at 8:00 in the morning. Mark your calendars for a delicious meal and fellowship with friends.
If you are looking for a reason to be thankful, Pastor Tim Harris and Pam Harris shared that they are in the early stages of planning for a revival. Gerald Crabb; minister singer songwriter, will be visiting the church November 17-19. More details to come about this exciting revival weekend near Thanksgiving.

The 2nd Annual “Josh Feirn Memorial Cornhole Tournament” will be held this weekend. September 23rd beginning at 10:00am until 10:00pm at the Grand Bayou Resort. Live music will begin at 5:00 with Spencer Brunson and Deep Water Rehab. Please contact Morgan Feirn or Jade Burke.

If you have news to share please email Reba Phelps at jreba.phelps@gmail.com

I’m John Richmond, YOUR Natchitoches Parish President, and I am humbly asking for your vote in the upcoming election so that I may serve again as YOUR Parish President.

It continues to be a privilege and a joy to serve the good people of Natchitoches Parish.  Together we have all gone through a lot of unforeseen obstacles during the last four years.  We all endured the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricane Laura, back-to-back ice storms, and the heat wave/drought of 2023.  But together we made it through these events stronger and more determined than ever to serve, grow, and improve Natchitoches Parish.

During our administration, we began the long (and expensive) process of improving our Parish and our failing infrastructure without raising taxes.  By partnering with other public agencies, seeking grants, and securing other sources of funding at the State and Federal levels, here are a few of the accomplishments we have achieved together:

• Became more transparent than any previous administration.  You deserve to know where every penny is spent.  Here is the link to our current 2023 budget… https://npgov.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023-Proposed-Budget.pdf
• Helped fund the improvement of seven of the Parish’s water systems (with even more improvements still to come),
• Began the rehabilitation of roads like Harmony Rd, Hart Rd, Fish Hatchery Rd, and Bermuda Rd (more road improvements are on the way),
• Replaced failing bridges in our rural districts,
• Provided summer feeding programs and monthly commodity programs for thousands of Natchitoches Parish children and adults,
• Worked with our State and Federal representatives to secure funding for State Hwy rehabilitation projects like Hwy 120, and Hwy 6.

Yet, we all know there is so much more work to be done.  Decades of decline and deterioration can’t be fixed quickly.  That’s why I am asking for your vote on October 14^th!  I am committed to the people of Natchitoches Parish, and to the continued work that must be done to improve our parish.  Let’s keep moving forward together.  We are RESILIENT, STRONG, and DETERMINED.  WE ARE NATCHITOCHES PARISH!

The scene from The Andy Griffith Show, in black-and-white of course, is one you could have starred in at most any time this past Scorching Summer of 2023.

Two chairs on the wide sidewalk outside Floyd’s Barber Shop. Floyd sits in the one nearest his shop’s door, on the left of your TV screen. He is blank-faced and lazily working a whicker fan in front of his face. Up walks Sheriff Andy Taylor, who takes a seat and, as he crosses his legs, says, “Howdy, Floyd.”

 Floyd, with no small amount of effort, the heat evident on a face that, even in black-and-white, is obviously ashen: “92.”

 Andy: “It feels it.”

 Floyd: “I just looked at the thermometer over the door (points his whicker fan that way). You know what it says?”

 Andy: “92?”

 Floyd, slack-jawed and fanning, a folded newspaper, no doubt The Mayberry Gazette, resting on his lap under his other hand: “92. Like an oven. Hot! Ohhh … it’s HOT.”

 Andy: “Well, like Mark Twain said, ‘Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it.’”

 Floyd, stops fanning and looks at Andy: “He say that?”

 Andy: “Yep.”

 Floyd: “I thought Calvin Coolidge said that.”

 Andy: “No. No Floyd. Calvin Coolidge didn’t say that.”

 Floyd: “What’d Calvin Coolidge say?”

 Andy: “I don’t know.”

 Floyd, fanning again, then turning back to Andy: “You sure Mark Twain didn’t get that from Calvin Coolidge?”

 Andy: “No Floyd. Mark Twain lived before Calvin Coolidge.”

 Floyd, sitting up a bit and leaning toward Andy: “Oh … he COULDN’T have gotten it from him. NO … but it’s HOT.”

 And so it went, all summer in Mayberry over in Carolina back in the early 1960s — and all summer here in North Louisiana.

 Funny deal about the weather. It gets hot around here and few seem to remember that it is always hot in the summer here. Some are cooler than others, but they’re all hot.

 Summer of 1982, I had the privilege of helping build the bypass in Camden, Arkansas. (It’s a heckuva bypass, if you’re ever up that way.) My job was to walk in front of the grader — the big tractor that has the smoothing blade — and knock the dirt off stakes, driven at equal heights, so the driver could see them and make the dirt level for the rebar and pavement that’s to come. There is not a lot of shade in roadwork, as there are few trees in the middle of roads. And it was more than 100 degrees 21 days straight.

 That was — clears throat — 40 years ago.

 It’s always been hot. Next summer, it’s going to be hot again. (Just a guess.)

 But you’ve made it! Hold out ’til Saturday and you’ve made it to autumn!

 This is being typed on an evening where the outside temperature is mid-70s as we head into October, and what a fine month it is. October might just be the best of all the months — if it didn’t mean cold weather was coming.

 And then what will you and Andy and Floyd talk about? Probably the weather. And possibly, during an ice storm, wish for a day like one we complained about in July, whicker fan in hand.

 At least that’s what Mark Twain said … or maybe it was Calvin Coolidge.

 Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu

Upcoming Events

 APHN Membership Appreciation Social

Cheers to us! To show appreciation for our membership, APHN is having an open house on Thursday, October 5^th from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Lemee House, 310 Rue Jefferson, Natchitoches. Join us to sip, socialize, and support APHN’s efforts.

The first of October is designated as Clementine Hunter Day in Louisiana. To recognize this distinction, we will spotlight Clementine and her importance to Melrose, the Cane River community, and all of Natchitoches at this event.

All APHN members and all others interested in APHN and its preservation efforts are welcome. Door prizes will be given, and APHN & Melrose merchandise from the Bindery will be available for purchase.

Candlelight on the Cane – October 13^th

 Tour with a Twist – Candlelight on the Cane offers a distinctively Natchitoches experience. Take a

progressive guided journey through our Downtown Historic District, which includes a cruise along

picturesque Cane River Lake and the Rue Beauport Riverfront on the Cane River Queen Riverboat. Enjoy

entertainment, history, and specialty beverages at each site. Learn about the life and works of

Clementine Hunter, celebrate the 35^th anniversary of the filming of Steel Magnolias, and more. Join us

for a full evening of history and cultural treasures that ends with a complimentary Wine & Cheese

reception.

Ticket price: $40

Ticket price includes:

• Docent-led tour of three (3) historical properties
• 30-minute cruise on the Cane River Queen
• Complimentary specialty beverages and hors d’oeuvres at each venue
• Complimentary Wine & Cheese reception
• Admission to Melrose Fall Festival on Saturday, October 14^th or Sunday, October 15^th

The tour begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. Guides will lead ticket holders to each venue site. The tour will

take approximately 2 hours and will be followed by a Wine & Cheese reception. Some walking is

involved – so wear your comfortable shoes! Guides, detailed maps, and parking information will be

provided.

Venues

 Lemee House

310 Rue Jefferson

Think pink! The Lemee House, home to the Association to the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches

(APHN), was featured prominently as the home of Ouiser Boudreaux, neighbor to Shelby and M’Lynn in

the movie Steel Magnolias. To celebrate the 35^th anniversary of the filming of this movie classic, join several iconic characters for photo ops, and enjoy “Blush & Bashful” beverages, bleeding armadillo cake, and other tasty bites.

 Cunningham Law Office

550 Second Street

The Natchitoches Historic Foundation Headquarters, also known as the historic Cunningham Law Office,

boasts a collection of rare Clementine Hunter paintings. Learn about her life and work from experts and

mentors as you enjoy specialty “Clementine” beverages and uniquely Natchitoches treats.

Delta Queen Riverboat

Rue Beauport Riverfront

Sit back and relax and enjoy a Cane River beverage as Captain Paul Powell gives a river tour that includes

Fort St. Jean Baptiste and the scenic Rue Beauport Riverfront.

Jefferson Street Townhouse

230 Rue Jefferson

Affluent planters on Cane River kept elegant houses in town so they could attend social events. The

Jefferson Street Townhouse is an architectural gem that features an expansive front veranda and is filled

with antiques and fine décor. Gather in the parlor to hear stories about Natchitoches in the 1800’s as

the bustling river port and crossroads that gave rise to the cotton kingdoms along Cane River.

Afterwards, be our guest around the pool for wine, cheese, and hor d’oeuvres.

Tickets for Candlelight on the Cane can be purchased at: https://bit.ly/CandlelightOnTheCane

 Melrose Fall Festival: A Weekend of Artistry, Shopping, and Family Fun

Prepare to be swept away by a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit at the upcoming Melrose Fall Festival, scheduled for Saturday, October 14th (9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) and Sunday, October 15th (10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) at the picturesque Melrose on the Cane venue. This two-day extravaganza promises an unparalleled experience for attendees of all ages.

Artisan Showcase: With an impressive array of over 50 vendors, the Melrose Fall Festival is a haven for art enthusiasts and connoisseurs of hand-crafted excellence. Attendees will have the chance to explore a captivating assortment of hand-crafted items, including: exquisite artwork, enchanting candles, delectable jams, elegant jewelry, seasonal décor that reflects the spirit of the fall, and even charming outdoor furniture. This gathering is a prime opportunity to initiate your holiday shopping in a remarkable fashion, with each vendor showcasing their unique talent and offering a diverse selection.

Culinary Delights: The festival is more than just an art showcase – it’s a culinary journey. Local food vendors will be on hand, ready to satisfy your cravings with an enticing array of dishes that span various cuisines. From savory to sweet, these vendors will cater to every palate, making the Melrose Fall Festival an immersive experience for all senses.

Capture Memories: In the age of social media, capturing moments has become an art in itself. The festival features a stunning photo backdrop that is sure to make every snapshot a cherished memory. It’s the perfect opportunity to snap pictures against the backdrop of this enchanting event.

Home Tours and More: For those intrigued by history and architectural beauty, guided home tours (available with separate admission) offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Melrose on the Cane. The festival also ensures that families with children are in for a treat, featuring a portable playground and a range of engaging kids’ activities that promise endless joy and laughter.

Ticket Information: To ensure a seamless experience, it’s recommended to secure your tickets early. Tickets can be pre-purchased at www.MelroseOnTheCane.com/festivals. Be part of this extraordinary event that promises to be a highlight of the fall season.

Moonlight Over Melrose

A Spooktacular Halloween Extravaganza at Melrose On The Cane

Get ready for a bewitching evening of family-friendly fun as Melrose On The Cane presents “Moonlight Over Melrose,” a Halloween extravaganza set to take place on October 27^th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This enchanting event promises an array of thrilling activities and entertainment for all ages, making it the ultimate destination for Halloween enthusiasts.

Ghoulish Games and Witches’ Dance: Prepare to be captivated by a night of games and entertainment that will leave you spellbound. From classic carnival games to spine-tingling activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And don’t miss the mesmerizing witches’ dance performance that will have you dancing along with the mystical rhythm of the night.

Dance the Night Away: For those who love to boogie, a lively dance area awaits you. Put on your dancing shoes and groove to the spooky beats spun by our talented DJ. Whether you’re a fan of the monster mash or the ghostly cha-cha, the dance floor is your playground.

Jeepers Creepers Trunk-Or-Treat Lane: Explore the eerie wonders of the Jeepers Creepers Trunk-Or-Treat Lane, where a fleet of creatively decorated vehicles will distribute treats to eager trick-or-treaters. Show off your costumes and collect delicious goodies from the trunks of the most spooktacular cars.

Tour the Big House: Unearth the history and mystery of the Big House as you embark on guided tours through its historic corridors. Learn about the rich stories that have shaped Melrose On The Cane.

Delicious Delights by APHN: No Halloween event is complete without tantalizing treats, and the hauntingly good cooks from the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches (APHN) have you covered. Indulge in a variety of delectable food items that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From savory to sweet, there’s a taste sensation for every palate.

Dress in Your Finest Halloween Attire: Don your most creative and family-friendly Halloween costume. Whether you choose to be a charming witch, a daring superhero, or a mystical creature, the costume contest is your time to shine.

Don’t Forget Your Candy Bag: With a night full of treats and treasures, be sure to bring a bag to collect all the candy and goodies you’ll receive throughout the evening.

For more information, please visit our website: www.MelroseOnTheCane.com/festivals

Tickets:

Ages 3 – 17: $10

Ages 18 and up: $5

About Melrose On The Cane:

Melrose On The Cane is a historic venue renowned for its scenic beauty and captivating events. Located in Melrose, Louisiana it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that appeals to visitors of all ages.

There are many ways that we as outdoorsmen can enjoy the great outdoors. There’s fishing, a very popular hobby by many, and there’s camping which takes the outdoor experience to another level. Maybe your idea of being outdoors involves playing golf or maybe exercising. But for thousands of others, there’s hunting, which for many is the main reason they wake up every day!

Hunters, in most cases, are very hard-core outdoorsmen who have a serious passion for pursuing wild game from doves and squirrel to ducks and bucks. But why?

To understand a hunter, you need to be a hunter or live with one. This group has the same mind set and passion for the outdoors that LSU Tiger fans have for football — they’re crazy! Hunters put in a lot of time and effort to not only hunt, but to get ready for the hunt.

Just like a bass tournament angler, preparation is key to being successful and is a part of the grind that hunters must go through to increase their chances for success in the fall. For most hunters, all the preseason planning is just as much fun as the hunt itself…or is it?

Whether they are on a lease or hunting public land, hunters have a lot of work to do. They tend to have more flexibility on a private lease than they might on public hunting land. But most owners of leases, public and private, do not want hunters to put nails into trees since at some point, the landowner or timber company will probably be harvesting the timber. Most of the time, they’re okay with you cutting a few shooting lanes, bush hogging pipelines, or planting food plots on old logging roads.

For deer hunters, the next season begins only a few months after the last one ended. Deer hunters do not get much of a break as they start the process of preparing for next season by planting food plots, fixing feeders, and repairing deer stands. Most take their ATV or UTV vehicles in for service due to the abuse their machines have gone through.  

For duck hunters, the biggest job is building the blind. Some simply rebrush blinds they’ve used for years, while others may build new blinds in different locations.

Make no mistake, the amount of work to build a duck blind is no less than what a deer hunter must do. Duck hunters must go out and gather moss and cut brush so they can brush-in their blind. This takes time and lots of work to secure the brush to the blind. Of course, all this takes place when temperatures are usually in the 90’s, so sweating is a major part of both a duck and deer hunter’s world as they prepare for another season.   

Ladies who aren’t hunters, now you know why your husbands are gone so long during hunting season, and especially during the months leading up to the hunting season. Hunting requires hard work and long hours of preparation to guarantee success.

Don’t try and justify the cost of hunting because when it comes down to dollars spent versus pounds of meat put in the freezer. You’ll see it does not come out very well for the hunter. But it’s all worth it when that back strap comes straight off the grill and is sitting in front of you at dinner time. It just doesn’t get any better than that!

‘Til next time good luck, good fishing and don’t forget to invite me for supper when back strap is served!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

The Natchitoches Soil and Water Conservation District has an opening for a District Secretary/Program Assistant.

 Duties include: 

general bookkeeping, managing/balancing an annual budget, customer reception, composing correspondence, preparing multiple reports each month, attending monthly board meetings and preparing minutes, and assisting office personnel in USDA NRCS Programs offered to the public. Must be proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook as well as Adobe products. Should be a fast learner, and able to self-motivate with excellent organizational skills.

Benefits:

Annual leave and sick leave are accrued on pay periods worked. Benefits will include state group health insurance and Louisiana deferred compensation benefits program.

Please email your resume to glenn.austin@usda.gov or mail to:

Natchitoches Soil & Water Conservation District
6949 Hwy 1 Bypass
Natchitoches, LA 71457

EOE

NSU Student Documentary: THE NIGHT THE MUSIC DIED – YouTube

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum hosted a standing room only crowd of music lovers for the ”Photographs and Memories-a Salute to Jim Croce” event on Monday evening, September 18.

The program was held two days before the 50^th anniversary of singer/songwriter Jim Croce’s death in a plane crash while taking off from the Natchitoches airport after a concert at NSU’s Prather Coliseum on Sept. 20, 1973.  

Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams read a proclamation passed by the city council at its last meeting declaring September 20^th as “Jim Croce Day” in the City of Natchitoches. Donna Baker, director of NSU’s Cammie Henry Research Center, also provided some articles concerning Croce’s final concert from the archive’s holdings to complement an array of photos and materials from the musician’s career and time in Natchitoches.

Four students from NSU Associate Professor Melody Gilbert’s Documentary Production Class made a 2022 short film on Croce’s last concert, featuring background information and interviews with former students who attended the concert. The 18-minute short was screened for the audience. One of the people appearing in the film is Melanie Babin Torbett, who as a reporter for the NSU Current Sauce, was the last person to interview the singer.

Billy O’Con, an iconic figure of the local music scene who portrayed Jim Croce in the 1997 movie “Jim Croce – Last Night in Natchitoches, a Story of Life, not Loss,” performed some of Croce’s hit songs for the crowd drawing several standing ovations along with many audience members singing along.

Film maker Robert Langpaap has produced a 52-minue documentary movie “Jim Croce: You Know the Songs, Now Know the Story.” Monday’s event included a short clip from the upcoming film which will premiere at the museum this fall.

Lastly, there was a panel discussion featuring Dan McDonald, Torbett and Rodney Harrington, all of whom were NSU students who attended what was to be Croce’s final concert. Audience members Monday also contributed remarks and memories.

The event was a fitting remembrance of a now legendary singer and songwriter who was taken from us all too soon and who is forever intertwined with our history.

From superb music, to motorcycles, and the signature Natchitoches delicacy, the Natchitoches Meatpie Festival held September 15 and 16 at the downtown riverbank, offered something for everyone.

The Natchitoches Meatpie Festival, in its twenty-first year, has long been a staple of the fall season in our community, offering family fun to one and all with no admission charge. The event featured concerts, an eclectic variety of food trucks, craft booths, inflatable structures for children to play in, and of course lots of meatpies for all to enjoy. Lifeshare’s bloodmobile was also on hand looking for donors.

Thousands of festivalgoers packed the downtown riverbank to listen to an eclectic range of musical entertainment. Saturday’s festivities began with over 50 motorcyclists thundering down Front Street enjoying the twenty-fourth Cane River Run, a three-hour ride throughout our picturesque parish. The day featured almost 12 solid hours of entertainment beginning with Natchitoches’ Zach George Band and culminating with a fun filled performance by Natchitoches’ iconic Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs. In a special treat the Moondogs were joined by Zydeco legend Jo-El Sonnier for a truly memorable night of musical magic.

The Meatpie Festival, in addition to being terrific fun, has a serious purpose. The festival’s proceeds assist organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and other charitable endeavors.

Almost 50 years to the night of his concert at NSU’s Prather Coliseum and the ensuing tragic plane crash at the Natchitoches airport, Jim Croce’s legacy and music is center stage this evening at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum (800 Front Street, Natchitoches).

“Photographs and Memories: A Tribute to Jim Croce” will include local musician Billy O’Con playing some of Croce’s greatest hits, the screening of an 18-minute NSU student-produced 2022 documentary film called “The Night the Music Died,” and a panel discussion with audience involvement on Croce, his final day and his 42-minute last concert at Prather Coliseum.

The event begins with a reception at 5:30, when the museum doors open. The program starts at 6:15 and should finish about 7:30.

Patrons will be able to enjoy refreshments and appetizers during the reception, with Croce music playing in the background.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, military families, first responders and students who aren’t among the early 50 arrivals. The program is free for current FLASH members.

Tickets and FLASH memberships will be on sale at the door payable by Venmo, cash or check.

The first 50 students in the door will be admitted free. Students will be treated to free pizza.

Those attending will see the first-ever viewing of a four-minute movie trailer on the soon-to-premiere “Jim Croce” feature film, which includes at-home footage of the singer with his family, in-depth interviews and comments about him from iconic musicians Kenny Loggins, Jim Messina and Randy Newman. The film is a Hollywood production of Dardan Entertainment, directed and produced by former Natchitoches resident Robert Langpaap.

“Photographs and Memories” is hosted by Friends of Louisiana Sports and History (FLASH), the local support group for the museum.

Croce wrote and performed such iconic hits as “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown,” “Time in a Bottle,” “Operator,” “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” “Photographs and Memories,” “I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song,” and “I Got a Name.”

Croce made up a postponed appearance at Prather Coliseum on Sept. 20, 1973. He and five others perished shortly afterwards in a plane crash.

For more information on this evening’s event, visit the FLASH Facebook page or call the museum at 318-357-2492.

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MILL STREET ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT

TIF F

FILING COLUMN: BF (MILL STREET EDD F) 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

City of Natchitoches

On May 8, 2023 the City of Natchitoches levied an ADDITIONAL Sales and Use Tax for Economic Development District F (EDD F) of Two Percent (2%).  In addition to the sales tax increase, the 2% City 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 City of Natchitoches businesses remain at 5.5%

OCTOBER 1, 2023

New Local Sales and Use Tax Rates and City Occupancy Tax

IMPORTANT:  If your business is located in Mill Street EDD F, 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 October sales, rentals, etc.  October 1, 2023.   Any questions concerning the implementation of this tax should be directed to:

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

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