July 11, 1940 – December 15, 2021

The night sky shines a little brighter now as Mrs. Cora Lee McNeely’s star has joined the heavens to shine down on us. Our warm and loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed from this life after an extended illness to her heavenly rewards on December 15, 2021.

Know all her life to her family and friends as Dootsie, she was born on July 11, 1940, to Col. Thomas A. Barker and Cora Lee Hill. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School, attended Northwestern State College, and began her working career at the Natchitoches Trade School. She married Gerald D. Deville and began her family in the early ‘60’s. She soon began a 26-year career with Peoples Bank & Trust Company, rising to the position of Executive Secretary before the bank changed ownership. She then embarked upon a new position as Administrative Assistant, with the NSU Alumni Association, followed by closing her career with the Department of Journalism upon her retirement in 2007.

An eighth generation descendent from on of the areas earliest pioneer families, Dootsie was a friend to one and all, never meeting a stranger. She enjoyed dancing, cross stitchery, and working in her flower beds. She loved interacting with bank customers, co-workers, and later with NSU students, colleagues, and alumni, but most of all, she loved her large and extended family.

Dootsie was preceded in death by her parents and older brother, Thomas A. Baker, Jr.

She is survived by her husband of forty-one years, LTC Charles L. “Sandy” McNeely; children, Donna Fitzgerald (David) of Niles, MI; Denise Deville, and Dennis Deville both of Natchitoches, and David Deville (Connie) of Lafayette, LA; grandchildren, Christopher Deville, Cynthia Deville, Hayley Hug all of Lafayette, LA; great-granddaughter, Mavyn Atkinson; sisters, Marietta Lee (Lester) of Baton Rouge and Anne Breda of Houston; sister-in-law, Ellen Baker of Shreveport; and brother-in-law, Ludlow N. McNeely of Natchitoches; along with numerous nephews and nieces.

Visitation will be held from 5 pm – 7 pm on Monday, December 20, 2021 at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday December 21st at 10:00 am at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, followed by interment at the American Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Dr. Steve Horton, Tommy Joe Sibley, Ludlow McNeely, III, Roger Williams, Austin McNeely, and Christopher Deville.

The family would like to thank the following for their care and devotion to our loved one: Dr. Robert Massengill and the nurses and staff of Highland Cancer Center, Dr. Mohammed Shebeeb, Dr. Michelle Mayeau, Dr. Stephen Wheat, and the nurses and staff at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and the Courtyard of Natchitoches.

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Natchitoches Parish law enforcement leaders recently discussed their increased focus on preventing thefts during the holiday season in addition to their ongoing effort of investigating violent and other crimes.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright and Natchitoches City Police Chief Nikeo Collins both agreed that December is a time when citizens should be extra cautious with their holiday purchases and items on their property.

“Citizens should not leave any valuables in their vehicles unattended. This includes recent shopping purchases. Also, please retrieve all shipping packages soon after arrival. These two simple measures will significantly reduce the opportunity for a thief to target your items,” said Sheriff Wright.

District Attorney Harrington discussed the theft of goods from area merchants. “We will certainly prosecute all shoplifting cases referred to our office. Our area store owners work hard to keep their costs as reasonable as they can, but in the end we all pay the price for shoplifters. We will continue to work with business owners and their security teams in gathering all evidence needed to prosecute shoplifters,” said District Attorney Harrington.

Chief Collins said, “Our focus is to ensure that the holiday season in our city is as safe as possible. We welcome thousands of visitors who come here each December to see our great display of lights and our warm hospitality. We want to make sure our residents and visitors have wonderful experiences during the Christmas season. We know that by doing everything we can to prevent and deter criminal activity, everyone benefits.”

If a citizen witnesses a retail theft or a theft on private property, police urge them to not engage the thief, but to immediately call 911 and provide as many details as possible. Citizens can remain anonymous.

“Our alert citizens are great partners in helping our community reduce crime and stay safe,” said Sheriff Wright.

 

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By Tommy Rush

Have you ever noticed that Christmas smells different than any other season of the year? I’ve always enjoyed the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree and the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg in a fresh baked pumpkin pie. I’ve always enjoyed the smell of a fire burning in the fireplace at Christmas. Someone told me recently that these specific smells are actually smells of love that have a way of reminding me of some of our best memories.

I’ve never thought of specific aromas as smells of love, but I guess they really are. Whenever I smell Divinity and Fudge Candy cooking or Hot Apple Cider on a stove, immediately I’m reminded of my grandmother’s kitchen and her love for us at Christmas. Another smell of love is the last hug of the day from a just bathed grandchild in their pjs as they head to bed. The more I think about it, the more I agree that there really are a lot of things that smell of love!

In my lifetime I’ve been in a lot of old barns. I’ve never been in one that didn’t smell to some degree of fermenting silage, animal manure or rotten hay. Most people would never consider these specific smells as smells of love but those who believe God’s Word realize that is exactly what they are. It’s truly amazing that God entered the world as a baby, but even more amazing that He was born in a stable among cattle, hay and sheep. The first people given the privilege of laying their eyes on the Son of God other than Joseph and Mary was a group of smelly shepherds. Think about it – God gave this great blessing to the shepherds. Shepherds were people who were basically shut out and shut off from society in the first century. They were not even allowed to enter the temple because they were considered unclean. The story of the shepherds seeing Jesus first declares loud and clear the wonderful goodness and grace of God!

There was no Christmas tree, Christmas lights or chestnuts roasting on an open fire that first Christmas night. Just a baby in a feeding trough, surrounded by some animals, His parents, and some shepherds who most likely smelled a lot like sheep. And it’s great to know that the baby they saw lying in the manger that night is the reason we celebrate Christmas. The same joy they experienced is available to all of us who believe. May He fill your home this Christmas with the smells of His goodness, grace and love!

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Here is a look at the week of Dec. 19-25 at Northwestern State University.

Dec. 19 – January 9, 2022 – Registration for Spring 2022 semester

Dec. 20 – 31 – University closed for Christmas/New Year’s holiday

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By Joe Darby

I think the only images that can compare to the absolutely horrible devastation left by the tornado in western Kentucky are photos of Hiroshima after the atom bomb was dropped on it in World War II.

The pictures of both incidents show block after block after block of complete destruction, nothing left but splintered lumber, nothing standing, all is gone. The magnitude of the bomb’s damage was much larger, of course, but the level of destruction was similar. (By the way, I completely disagree with those who say the bomb need not have been dropped. If America had been forced into an invasion of Japan, hundreds of thousands of US lives would have been lost and millions of Japanese. As horrible as it was, the bomb was a life saver).

But back to Kentucky. This certainly has to be one of the worst tornados America has suffered in many a year. It continued its path for 200 miles and was almost a mile wide, as I understand it. The complete number of fatalities will not be known for a while, but it’s clear that many are having trouble coping with this event. After all, their town as they have always known it, is gone. Imagine the same damage here in Natchitoches. Where would we go, what would we do?

Some will be quick to say the tornado was a product of global warming. I don’t know and I don’t think anyone knows for sure. Even some scientists are admitting that. I have long been a skeptic of the long-term predicted effects of global warming. I thought that the predictions of dire consequences were greatly exaggerated. I still think the proposed radical Green New Deal would go a long way toward destroying our economy and is way over the top.

I do know this, though. Temperatures are definitely rising world-wide. Glaciers are melting all over the globe, the Antarctic ice sheet is shrinking and the ice covering much of the Arctic Ocean is melting also. It’s becoming more common for ships to be able to transit the Arctic north of Canada, something that could be rarely done in the past.

This situation surely poses a threat to low lying communities, such as New Orleans and other coastal areas of Louisiana. Some say Venice, Italy will become uninhabitable before too many more years. I think other consequences of the warming are less clear, although it’s a fact that we have more and more dangerous hurricanes every year. It’s become almost routine that there are so many storms, all of the names are used up and we have to go to the Greek alphabet to designate them all.

There may be mitigating effects of the warming, also. Some anticipate global famine but consider this. As the climate changes, more and more land in places like Canada, our gigantic neighbor to the north, will be suitable for agriculture. What are frozen wastes today may be productive farmlands tomorrow.

It’s all so complicated. We need to take steps to mitigate the warming but the Biden administration’s wholesale attacks on the fossil fuel industries is ill advised and potentially ruinous to the economy. How do we balance our planet’s needs? Do we have enough wise men and women to come up with the answers. That’s the biggest worry!

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A Major League Baseball draft pick, conference titles, gold medals and school records are scattered among the accomplishments of the 40 Northwestern State student-athletes who earned their college diplomas Wednesday and Thursday at Prather Coliseum.

Those 40 individuals graduated either in the summer or fall and were honored in a joint event.

Former NSU pitcher Levi David was drafted in the ninth round by the New York Mets this June after making the All-Southland Conference Team in 2021. His 15.34 strikeouts and 5.02 hits per nine innings ranked third nationally.

David is also the only student-athlete graduate to earn Summa Cum Laude status, graduating with at least a 3.9 GPA. Seven other NSU student-athletes graduated Magna Cum Laude (3.7 GPA or higher) or Cum Laude (3.5 GPA or higher).

Former baseball teammate Tyler Smith, who is ninth in NSU history with 23 home runs, tied the program single-game record with three home runs in a 2019 win against No. 6 Arkansas and was a member of the 2018 NCAA Tournament that won a game in the Corvallis Regional.

Two track athletes also headline this graduating group as Diana Granados and Janiel Moore have combined for seven Southland Conference golds.

Granados has run a leg on three 4×400 and one 4×100 relay championship squads and is poised to be a conference championship threat in two individual sprints as a senior.

Moore will attempt to defend her 60 hurdles conference title this indoor season and add to her pair of relay golds. She ran leg on NSU’s 4×400 indoor record of 3:41.29, which took gold at the 2020 Indoor SLC Championships.

Soccer forward Kalee Williams knows about conference title trophies.

The Southland Conference third teamer played a key role in NSU’s offense and pressure package as the Lady Demons won their second-ever SLC regular season title and third-ever SLC Tournament title and NCAA Tournament Appearance.

The addiction studies and psychology major finished her career with eight goals and 10 assists in three years as an attacker after being a starting defender as a freshman.

A pair of basketball players will finish distinguished careers this spring.

Larry Owens, a general studies graduate who is the first in his family to obtain a college degree, is on pace to eclipse 800 points and 500 rebounds in his career.

LaTerrance Reed, a business administration graduate, is one of the better 3-point shooters in recent NSU history, making 107 at a 37 percent clip.

All-Southland Conference softball outfielder Elise Vincent will pursue a career in the medical field with her applied microbiology degree.

Among the 12 current and former football players graduating, linebacker Kyle Moore tallied 133 tackles and three interceptions in his career.

Football’s 12 graduates led the way with men’s and women’s track combining for 10 graduates.

Total Summer 2021 and Fall 2021 Athletic Department Grads: 40

Summer 2021 Athletic Graduation List (Participating in Fall 2020 commencement) (12)

Baseball (2)

Levi David (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration; Concentration: Finance; Honors: Summa Cum Laude
Tyler Smith (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of General Studies; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: General Studies; Concentration: Social Science; Minor: Social Science

Football (2)

Damian Thompson (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration
Floyd Turner (Former Student-Athlete; Also participated in Men’s Track): Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration

Soccer (2)

Karoline Guidry (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science in Nursing; College: Nursing & School of Allied Health; Major: Nursing; Honors: Magna Cum Laude
April Trowbridge (Former Student-Athlete): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Psychology, Clinical (Perfect 4.0 GPA!)

Softball (2)

Baleigh Derouen (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science in Nursing; College: Nursing & School of Allied Health; Major: Nursing; Honors: Honor Roll
Elise Vincent (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Applied Microbiology; Concentration: Environmental & Applied Microbiology; Honors: Summa Cum Laude

Men’s Track (2)

Mike Alukunyang (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Psychology; Honors: Honor Roll
Javin Arrington: Bachelor of General Studies; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: General Studies; Concentration: Social Science; Minor: Social Science

Administration (2)

Quinton Thibodeaux (Former Graduate Assistant/Football): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Human Performance; Concentration: Sport Administration
Christian VanBuren (Former Graduate Assistant/Sports Performance; Former Football Student-Athlete): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Human Performance; Concentration: Health Promotion

Fall 2021 Athletic Graduation List (28)

Baseball (1)
Evan Daigle (Former Student-Athlete): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Human Performance; Concentration: Sport Administration

Men’s Basketball (2)

Larry Owens: Bachelor of General Studies; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: General Studies; Concentration: Social Science; Minor: P.E., Sport and Leisure Management
LaTerrance Reed: Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration; Concentration: Marketing; Honors: Honor Roll

Football (10)

Joshua Clarke: Bachelor of General Studies; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: General Studies; Concentration: Social Science; Minor: Social Science
Braylon Daigle (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Industrial Engineering Technology; Honors: Honor Roll
Cayden Dunn (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Arts; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Criminal Justice
Shamond (L.C.) Greenwood: Bachelor of General Studies; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: General Studies; Concentration: Social Science; Minor: Social Science
John Aaron Howell (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science in Nursing; College: Nursing & School of Allied Health; Major: Nursing; Honors: Magna Cum Laude
Jacob Logan (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration; Concentration: Marketing
John-David May (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Arts; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Criminal Justice; Honors: Cum Laude
Quinton Mitchell (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Exercise Science
Kyle Moore: Bachelor of Science; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Industrial Engineering Technology; Honors: Honor Roll
Trevor Morgan (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Psychology; Honors: Honor Roll

Soccer (4)

Amy Dill (Former Student-Athlete and Student Worker): Master of Education; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Educational Technology Leadership; Concentration: Educational Leadership Technology K-12
Sydney Normand: Bachelor of Science in Nursing; College: Nursing & School of Allied Health; Major: Nursing; Honors: Honor Roll
Kaymi Wheeler: Bachelor of Science; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Biology; Concentration: Biomedical; Honors: Honor Roll
Kalee Williams: Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Addiction Studies & Psychology; Honors: Cum Laude

Men’s Track (2)

Austin Simoneaux: Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration; Concentration: Management; Honors: Honor Roll
Cole Spooner: Bachelor of Arts; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: History; Minor: Social Science; Honors: Magna Cum Laude

Women’s Track (5)

Nadia Carney (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Exercise Science; Concentration: Pre-Physical Therapy; Honors: Cum Laude
Taylor Finley: Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Child and Family Studies; Concentration: Child Development & Family Relations; Minor: Social Science; Honors: Honor Roll
Diana Granados: Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Exercise Science; Honors: Honor Roll
Janiel Moore: Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Psychology; Honors: Honor Roll
Marlee Paulk (Former Student-Athlete): Bachelor of Science; College: Business and Technology; Major: Business Administration; Minor: Accounting; Honors: Cum Laude

 

Volleyball (1)
Bryce Potter: Bachelor of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Exercise Science; Honors: Honor Roll

Administration (3)

John “Bud” Denega (Former Graduate Assistant/Sports Information): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Human Performance; Concentration: Sport Administration
Kyle Jobe (Former Assistant Coach/Soccer): Master of Science; College: Education & Human Development; Major: Health and Human Performance; Concentration: Sport Administration
James Stanfield (Student Worker/Video): Bachelor of Arts; College: Arts and Sciences; Major: Communication; Concentration: Journalism, Broadcasting, and DM Production; Minor: Photography; Honors: Magna Cum Laude

PHOTO: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services

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During the summer, Dr. Calvin Phelps fell at his home and broke several ribs. He thought he was okay, but a few weeks later, he began to feel as if he might faint. He went to NRMC’s emergency room, and the ER physician listened to his lungs and did a chest X-ray. Dr. Phelps had a buildup of blood around his lungs related to the fall and his treatment with blood thinners.

The ER physician on duty called Dr. Warren Botnick with NRMC Pulmonology Associates to the ER to see Dr. Phelps. After examining Dr. Phelps, Dr. Botnick, a board-certified pulmonologist, tried to find his patient a bed at a hospital with a thoracic surgeon, but none of the hospitals he contacted had any availability due to the surge in COVID cases. So, Dr. Botnick consulted with a colleague in Shreveport, a thoracic surgeon, about Dr. Phelps’ needs. In agreement for the next steps, Dr. Botnick made arrangements for his new patient to remain at NRMC. He began treating him, removing over 2.5 gallons of blood from around his lungs over the course of several days while also giving him blood transfusions and medicines to prevent infections.

“When I went to the ER at NRMC, I knew right away that I was in good hands,” Dr. Phelps said. “I could not have asked for better care or treatment. They were wonderful, and I will never go to another ER or hospital again. When Dr. Botnick came into the ER and took over my case, he explained everything to me. The hospital was full, and so they kept me in the ER most of that first day, and then I had the treatments done in Same Day Surgery. Everyone was so nice and did such a good job. I am so very grateful to each of them.”

Dr. Phelps explained that Dr. Botnick has become not just his doctor but a friend. “Now, I look forward to going to his office for checkups. It is just a happy time when I see him. He correctly and appropriately assessed what had happened and made sure I came out of it. Even though the hospital was full with all the COVID, and he was the pulmonologist helping so many people, he treated me like I was the only one there. I don’t want to think about what could have been the outcome had I gone somewhere else. I will always go to NRMC from here on.”

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POSITION: Certified Building Official/Inspector

DESCRIPTION: Inspects and approves all phases of public/private construction and improvement work including building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and gas, construction, alterations or repairs for compliance with codes, laws and regulations with the City of Natchitoches and State of Louisiana.

QUALIFICATIONS: Graduation from high school or GED, supplemented by two years of related technical or college training in construction, engineering technology, civil engineering or a closely related field; Possess a current ICC Certified Building Official or current ICC Master Code Professional certificate; experience in residential and commercial construction and minimum of three years experience as an architect, engineer, inspector, plans examiner, contractor or superintendent of construction or any combination of these.

CONTACT: City of Natchitoches, Human Resources Department, located at 1400 Sabine St. or P.O. Box 37, Natchitoches, LA 71458-0037. Applications may also be picked up upstairs at City Hall located at 700 Second St. or may be downloaded at http://www.natchitochesla.gov

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS: Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

THE CITY OF NATCHITOCHES IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

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With a return to something features the return of some familiar faces and the typical grouping of NCAA Regional opponents.

Sixth-year head coach Bobby Barbier announced the schedule, which includes 28 home games, Thursday.

“We are excited about getting back to a normal routine this spring with midweek games,” Barbier said. “I believe we have put together a tough schedule where we will need to be prepared to give our best competitive effort every time out. I know our guys are preparing this holiday season for that and are excited about playing it.

Four NCAA Regional teams – McNeese, Louisiana Tech, LSU and Nebraska – dot Northwestern State’s schedule.

The Demons will face Nebraska twice in Arlington, Texas, mixing in a game against UT Arlington during the weekend of March 4-6. NSU travels to McNeese from May 6-8 and will face LSU in its final mid-week game of the season, May 17, in Baton Rouge.

After not playing in 2020 or 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Demons and Louisiana Tech will play a home-and-home season series with the first game coming April 12 in Ruston. NSU will host the Bulldogs at Brown-Stroud Field on May 4.

In addition to Louisiana Tech, the Demons will face state foes Grambling, UL Lafayette, ULM and LSU-Alexandria in home-and-home midweek series and mix in a home-and-home with former Southland Conference rival Lamar. A season ago, Northwestern State played three total mid-week games – at ULM and LSU and at home against LSU-Alexandria.

“It is always fun to get back to playing those guys,” Barbier said. “Our players grow up playing with a lot of theirs which causes some familiarity and some competitive battles.”

NSU opens the season against another familiar opponent – former SLC member Stephen F. Austin – from Feb. 18-20. After hosting ULM on Feb. 22, the Demons head to Oklahoma (Feb. 25-27) and face a combination of Nebraska and UT Arlington (March 4-6) before returning home for their final two non-conference weekend series.

The Demons host Alcorn (March 11-13) and then welcome South Dakota State to Brown-Stroud Field for a four-game set from March 17-19.

NSU begins its 24-game Southland Conference schedule at New Orleans (March 25-27). The Demons and Privateers meet six times this season, closing out the regular season in Natchitoches from May 13-15.

The Demons’ three other home Southland series come against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (April 1-3), Houston Baptist (April 22-24) and Southeastern (April 29-May 1). NSU makes Southland road trips to Incarnate Word (April 8-10), Nicholls (April 14-16) and McNeese (May 6-8).

The Southland Conference Tournament takes on a unique look this season, extending across two weekends at campus sites. The top two finishers in the regular season each will host a four-team, regional-style tournament May 19-21. The two winners will play a best-of-three series the next weekend to earn the Southland Conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA Regionals.

Season ticket packages are available at the Northwestern State Athletics Ticket Office or online at http://www.NSUTickets.com. VIP season tickets are on sale for $225 while a general admission season pack runs $125. For more information on tickets call (318) 357-4268.

Photo: Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services

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The sport of tournament fishing offers many options of trails that an angler may participate in. But to fish more than one tournament trail is very draining, both mentally and physically. Most people think that bass fishing is a very relaxing sport. This might be true for the weekend warrior or all the crappie fishermen, but not for anglers that compete on a high level. There are times that tournaments seem to take all the fun out of fishing, as it turns into work. To be successful on any tournament trail, local or regional, you must be committed to time on the water. It’s just like any other sport…those that put in the extra time, are the ones that will be the most successful.

Tournament fishing takes a big toll on the body, especially after the age of 60. Based on my experience, it takes a little longer to recover from 5 or 6 straight days on the water. Even in good weather conditions with little to no wind, boat rides take their toll on the body. Some lakes are worse than others and present a big challenge even for the youngest of anglers. Lakes like Toledo Bend, Sam Rayburn or Texoma (north of Dallas) take boating to a whole other level. Each lake is laid out differently, but for Toledo Bend a wind straight out of the south or north means 3- and 4-foot waves. At Toledo Bend we call this “right down the pipe,” a direction you don’t want to see, especially on tournament day. For Sam Rayburn, high winds out the southeast or northwest mean a rough ride and can be very hard on a boat. I’ve seen waves so bad that anglers have had their trolling motors or electronic units knocked completely off the bow. I’ve seen anglers break bones and dislocate joints, not to mention the number of back injuries I’ve seen. Shoulder and knee surgeries, inflamed elbows and wrist issues are just a few of injuries that are common among anglers.

Now let’s talk about the mental side of tournament fishing, which can be even tougher than the physical side. A lot of preparation goes into getting ready for an event. The internet has really created a great shortcut for information that’s important for each body of water. You can find previous tournament results, old and new fishing reports, and maps, not to mention the amount of info you can gain from YouTube videos. No one likes to brag more about their catch than bass fishermen and that’s where Google Earth, Facebook and YouTube videos will take your research to another level. Once on the water, you must apply what you’ve learned, but you can’t totally rely on this information to put you on the winning stringer. You must take this info and apply it to what you learn each day during your practice time. Very seldom can an angler repeat what another angler did to win an event. That’s why the sport is so mentally draining; you can’t always do what someone else has done. What the fish bite today, will not necessarily be what they’re biting tomorrow. Every day is a new day when it comes to bass fishing, but that’s what makes tournament fishing such a great sport. Most of the time, it’s unpredictable!

As you can see, tournament fishing is tough, but it can also be very rewarding, financially and emotionally. Nothing like the feeling of beating some of the best anglers in your region! Tournament fishermen are like a small cult or a band of gypsies…a group of anglers that have great respect for each other but can’t wait to kick the other’s butt at the next event. It’s a brotherhood of anglers who are stubborn, quirky, and intelligent, but most of all….competitive. To all my angling buddies, I look forward to the 2022 bass fishing season. Happy holidays everyone!

Steve Graf

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BOM would like to congratulate John Sullivan on his recent promotion to Operations Assistant Manager. John has been with BOM since June of 2017. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, and graduated from Northwestern State University in 2017 with a degree in Business Administration. John is currently the Chapter Advisor for Sigma Nu Fraternity at NSU. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends and watching LSU football. John is thankful to be a part of the BOM family where he is able to help customers in the community he was raised in. Congrats, John!

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Northwestern State softball fans don’t have to wait long to see quality opponents in the friendly confines of Lady Demon Diamond as head coach Donald Pickett announced his 2022 softball schedule Thursday.

NSU plays the first of six tournaments this season at home with the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission Lady Demon Classic from Feb. 11-13, featuring Baylor, UT Chattanooga, UT Martin and Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

That tournament kicks off a 16-game home schedule that includes midweeks against Louisiana Tech (March 29) and Grambling (March 1) along with home Southland Conference series against Nicholls (April 1-2), McNeese (April 15-16) and Incarnate Word (April 22-23).

Baylor is making its second appearance in Natchitoches in the Donald Pickett era, while Pickett hosts his alma mater UT Chattanooga for the first time.

“We’re excited about this schedule, which starts off with a great tournament at home with lots of competitive teams,” said Pickett who is beginning his 14th season at NSU. “We’ll get to see where we are as a team really quick, and it’s a positive thing to get to play quality teams at home.”

Because the Southland Conference has seven softball playing members, NSU’s league schedule shrunk to six conference series, which means the Demons added two extra tournament weekends to the schedule.

NSU heads up to the UT Chattanooga Tournament (UTC, Tennessee Tech, SIU-Edwardsville, Indiana State and Purdue Fort Wayne) on Feb. 18-20 before jetting to South Louisiana for Mardi Gras Mambo (Lipscomb, Eastern Illinois, St. Thomas, Portland State and Alabama).

The UT-Arlington Tournament is next (March 4-6) with UTA, UT-San Antonio and on the docket.

The Lady Demons stay in Texas to play in the Houston Tournament (March 11-13) before packing up to go to Memphis for a three-team event with Memphis and Ball State. Pickett was an assistant at Memphis before beginning his head coaching career at NSU.

“Playing in more tournaments gives us an opportunity to evaluate our younger players for a longer period of time,” Pickett said. “We can play younger kids in spots in the tournament, and that’s a really positive thing to see what they can do against high quality opponents at these tournaments before conference play begins.”

Including reigning SLC champion McNeese, NSU has four NCAA Tournament teams on its schedule – Women’s College World Series participant Alabama along with McNeese, Baylor and Portland State.

NSU begins Southland Conference play at Houston Baptist (March 25-26), which starts the six weeks of league play.

The Lady Demons host Nicholls (April 1-2), travel to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (April 8-9), welcome McNeese (April 15-16) and Incarnate Word (April 22-23) before finishing at Southeastern (May 5-6).

All home doubleheaders in SLC play will be on Friday.
The SLC Tournament runs from May 10-13 at Southeastern.
Season tickets cost $75 for reserved chair backs and $55 for general admission seats.
Outfield Club season passes are $100 with access to food and drinks.

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NATCHITOCHES:
Maria Conant Jones
November 30, 1955 – December 15, 2021
Viewing and Visitations: Sunday, December 19 from 10:30 am – 12 pm at Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Natchitoches

Tommy Boswell
July 1, 1947 – December 15, 2021
Service: Sunday, December 19 at 2 pm at Provencal Methodist Church

Cora Lee “Dootsie” Baker McNeely
July 11, 1940 – December 15, 2021
Service: Tuesday, December 21 at 10 am at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

Richard (Rick) Charles Nunnery
June 18, 1962 – December 10, 2021
Service: Friday, December 17 at 10 am at The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Natchitoches

SABINE:
Judy Veuleman
May 5, 1943 – December 14, 2021
No Service Information

Diana Blanchard Wedgeworth
November 17, 1952 – December 13, 2021
No Service Information

Preston Wayne Ellzey
February 2, 1967 – December 14, 2021
Service: Saturday, December 18 at 12 pm at Warren Meadows Funeral Home Chapel

WINN:
Walter Lee Craig
December 29, 1933 – December 14, 2021
Service: Friday, December 17 at 1 pm at Midway Baptist Church

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Northwestern State University awarded 662 degrees to 656 graduates during Fall 2021 Commencement exercises with four ceremonies held over two days, Dec. 15-16. NSU also awarded 412 degrees to 409 Summer 2021 graduates. It was the first commencement program presided over by Dr. Marcus Jones, who was named NSU’s 20th president in November.

Fall graduates are listed by hometown (in Natchitoches and surrounding areas) below, followed by the list of Summer graduates.

Alexandria –LaChandra Daigle, Ragan Huff, Happiness Johnson, Latisha White, Associate of Science in Nursing; Grayson Barbe, Associate Degree; Diana Azua, Carmen Rachal, Joshua Wells, Associate of General Studies; Sarah Hagan, Martavius King, Bachelor of Arts; Jordan Johnson, Elyssa Joly, Bachelor of Fine Arts; Maslin Gillett, Bachelor of General Studies; Jasmine Johnson, Bachelor of Music Education; Hunter Lewis, Justin Mundy, Hattie O’Steen, Maranda Pelkey, Alexander Trotter, Anthony White, Madison Willis, Bachelor of Science; Ruth Mesquita, Brandi Stalnaker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Mydacia Conaler, Brittany White, Bachelor of Social Work; Amie Clark, Selena Elmore, Jason Mercer, Rebecca Verdin, Master of Arts; Holly Carbo, Master of Education;

Benton – Jennifer Jackson, Associate of Science in Nursing; Megan Russell, Associate Degree; Steven Evans, Bachelor of General Studies; Bobbie Manchester, Jackson Mathews, Megan Russell, Bachelor of Science; Angela Cameron, Stacy Ebarb, Dena McWilliams, Kathryn Watts, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Larry Arant, Master of Science;

Bossier City – Chloe Levins, Associate of Science in Nursing; David Breedlove, Morgan Buxton, Darion Caillier, Catherine Carter, Kirk Weaver, Bachelor of Science; Amanda Billue, McKenzie Davidson, Elizabeth Davis, Geovanna Garza, Jodi Hill, Kristen Johnson, Beatrice Kipruto, Mary Mclendon, Andrew Robinson, Brianna Smith, Keyeria Smith, Kelllie Toms, Madison Wyatt, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Jerona Washington, Master of Arts; Douglas Smith, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Boyce – Katelyn Brister, Brandon Horne, Associate of Science in Nursing; Kelsie Arceneaux, Associate of General Studies; Sydney Yerby, Bachelor of Science; Anna Lacombe, Kaitlyn Miller, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Joseph Welch, Master of Education;

Campti – Madelynne Greer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Clarence – Lorraine Joseph, Associate of General Studies;

Converse – Kelli Rutherford, Bachelor of Applied Science; Ashley Sims, Bachelor of Arts; Haleigh Sharrow, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Coushatta – Victoria Rivers, Associate of General Studies; Shelly Isaacs, Bachelor of Applied Science; Kori Allen, Bachelor of General Studies; Faith Cason, La’Zaria Clark, Tawanda Johnson, Bachelor of Science; Savanah Caldwell, Brandon Gay, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Sydney Guin, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Florien – Annetra Gordon, Magon Pickett, Bachelor of General Studies; Caroline Chandler, Master of Education;

Fort Polk – Brianna Benfer, Martha Petitt, Associate of Science in Nursing; Steven LaPira, Associate of General Studies; Ashley Smock, Bachelor of General Studies; Alhaji Vandy, Bachelor of Science; Karen Da Silva, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Leesville – Jasmine Gonzales, Brandon Seaman, Autumn Sorensen, Kasey Tijerina, Associate of Science in Nursing; Kelsey Corley, Shannon Goody, Amber Johnson, Associate of General Studies; Samantha LaMonte, Constance McManus, Bachelor of General Studies; Gracyn Bruno, Erika Gilcrease, Brianna Harperhoward, Julie Lawrence, Ashley McKellar, Marquerita Moffett, Winter Pitts, Bachelor of Science; Morgan Campbell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Lena – Antoinette Baker, Bachelor of Science;

Mansfield – Madison Welborn, Bachelor of Science;

Many – Kristle Cary, Associate of Science in Nursing; Anne Boyens, Darien McMillian, Associate of General Studies; Lesli Leach, Bachelor of General Studies; Brayden McMillian, Chas Pilcher, Anna Porterfield, Bachelor of Science; Jaleah Lee, Mayci Self, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Brianna Miller, Bachelor of Social Work;

Marthaville – Madeline Procell, Bachelor of Science; Bridgette Phelps, Hannah Sattler, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Natchez – Dalton Dark, Associate of Science; Joseph Bayonne, Morgan Slaughter, Bachelor of Science;

Natchitoches – Christine Fuller, Charlotte Preylo, Associate of Science in Nursing; Rachel Formeller, Associate Degree; Kimberly Benjamin, Ruth Chatman, Griffianna Paige, Jairon Pitts, Mary Queen, Associate of General Studies; Eboni Phidd, Bachelor of Applied Science; Leanna Coy, Sheridan Douglas, Trenton Downs, Joshua Ellis, Melvin James, Cierra Johnson, Shawn Perry, Hannah Pettus, James Stanfield, Bachelor of Arts; Omari Irchirl, Bachelor of Fine Arts; Ian Belsha, Taylor Garland, Jonathan Roberts, Chandler Sarpy, Madison Thompson, Lindsey Vascocu, Rebecca Wilson, Bachelor of General Studies; Adam Trupp, Bachelor of Music; Michael Austin, Shenita Braxton, Wesley Carnahan, Destinee Christie, Leyla Fetweis, Ashley Flounnory, Rachel Formeller, Abbie Gandy, Diana Granados, Terrence Green, Jasmine Howard, Cayman Howell, Shastidy Hughes, Cierra Johnson, Karrington Johnson, Malachi Lester, Anna Marsha, Lamarr McGaskey, Quinton Mitchell, JeBreanne Morgan, Katelyn Murphy, Julie Nelson, Jay Oliphant, Kenneth Penrod, Meredith Phelps, Marissa Rogers, Christopher Sanders, Austin Simoneaux, Hannah Thomas, Ellise Vice, Melody Woodard, Bachelor of Science; Natalie Aguirre, Dylan Bennett, Kacy Bonds, Amanda Boudreaux, Keyana Brown, Ladiamond Burrell, John Howell, Kobe Jackson, Kristin McQuillin, Sydney Normand, Jasmine Richardson, William Torent, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Jasmine Dauzart, Bachelor of Social Work; Misty Lester, Doctor of Nursing Practice; Emilie King, Educational Specialist; Herbert de Launay, Emily Duet, Mary-Katherine Horton, Edgar Lopez, Ashley Mitchell, Master of Arts; Bergen Oge, Master of Education; Matthew Armand, Master of Music; Taylor Aucoin, Kyle Jobe, Master of Science; Krislyn Chenevert, Master of Science in Nursing;

Oak Grove –Anisha Blansett, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Pineville – Helen Casey, Natalie Jones, Joycelynn Sampson-Lewis, Maria Speights, Associate of General Studies; Casey Floyd,Bachelor of Applied Science; Brooke Leger, Bachelor of Fine Arts; Eriana Magee, Ashley Phillips, Bachelor of General Studies; Madison Evers, Katelynn Frost Hagan, Alissa Joseph, Henry Martin, Bachelor of Science; Alexis Dennis, Cecilia Shader, Christopher Wells, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Pleasant Hill – Shunterika Fields, Bachelor of Science;

Ringgold – Carly Chandler, Bachelor of Arts, Kayla Hullaby, Master of Arts;

Robeline – Marley Lester, Terra Schulze, Associate of General Studies; Chad Berly, Kaitlin Hatten, Rachel Head, Morgan Neugent, Bachelor of Science; Jessica Clark, Bachelor of Social Work;

Saline – Bayli Quick, Bachelor of Arts; Madison Alexander, Bachelor of Science; Lillie Williams, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Shreveport – Shakelvia Braden, Alyse Kirkaldy, Neidra Nash, ShaTavia Robinson, Cheria Scott,Andrew Watts, Associate of Science in Nursing; Tracy Clark, Yolanda Hendricks, Darniesha Wright, Associate of General Studies; Shaglenda Ary, Bachelor of Applied Science; Hannah Angell, Jackson Driggers, Noel Holmes, Makayla Joiner, Cristina Peterson, Savannah Phipps, Bachelor of Arts; Darika Kirkendol, Troy Winslow, Bachelor of General Studies; Leta Broome, Kendrick Dias, Meghan Fry, Deaveon Jones, Sierra Prelow, Kristen Reutlinger, Carmen Varnell, LaShonda Watkins, Kristy Wilson, Bachelor of Science; Erin Batts, Coral Bonts, Lura Brezina, Kaylan Campbell, Kesherion Collins, Carla Drain, Stephanie Dykes, Jenna Fielder, Peyton Gamble, Jaimee Henderson, Tremeka Henderson, Emily Herzog, Meghan Jelks, Kimiko Jones Davis, Emily Juarez, Ebony Leftridge, Alexis Leslie, Jessica Miller, Mary Murray, Kayla Petteway, Kalyn Phillips, Mikayla Phillips, Melinda Sampson, Devonne Seelig, Joanna Sims, Anne Tibbit, Maleaca Vincent, Brittany Ward, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Latari Fleming, Master of Arts; Catherine Victory, Master of Arts in Teaching; Melissa Edwards, Master of Education;

Courtney Dehart, Malory Jeter, Master of Science;

Springhill – Stephanie Daniel, Associate of Science in Nursing;

Winnfield – LaTerrion Green, Bachelor of Arts; Lana Knotts, Lauralyn Thompson, Bachelor of General Studies; Avonna Wilson, Bachelor of Science; Kassidy Grantadams, Elizabeth Parker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Tenisha Phillips, Fatima Rodriguez, Bachelor of Social Work;

Summer 2021 graduates:

Alexandria – Shelby Socia, Associate Degree; Victoria Burns, Dusting Constante, Matthew Cureington, Lamonae James, Claudine McGlory, Associate of General Studies; Andrea Aaron, Morgan Brame, Breanna Bryan, Kayla Busby, Brikeysha Duskin, Marlayna Fontenot, Sailor Reed, Tammy Reed-Belsha, KaWonda Williams, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Tasia Traylor, Bachelor of Social Work; Amanda Iles, Master of Education;

Benton – Savannah Elliott, Associate of General Studies; Morgan Andrews, Victoria Berry, Bridget Miller, Jadyn Sepulvado, Audrey Trujillo, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Sarah Baker, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Blanchard – Alyssa Ainsworth, Associate of General Studies;

Bossier City – Fofana Atkins, Associate of General Studies; Kristin Erskine, Bachelor of Applied Science; Javin Hatter, Bachelor of Arts; Heather LaFlame, Mallory Welch, Bachelor of Science; Brittany Batchelor, Marga David, Yolanda Dawkins, Jada Grigsby, Tricia Hightower, Caragan Lee, David McInnis, Oria McMillian, Daniel Morris, Lindsay Nuckolls, Megan Rainwater, Taylor Stoker, Stephenie Taylor, Logan Tucker, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Gabrielle Gatlin, Bachelor of Social Work; Janella Greene, Master of Arts;

Boyce – Kaitlyn Carlock, Associate of General Studies;

Cloutierville – Glenda Metoyer, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Converse – Mallory Mitchell, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Florien – Elizabeth Squillini, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Fort Polk – Zachary Layug, Rodrick McGrew, Associate of General Studies; Ana Murray, Kevin Zingwa Nkafu, Bachelor of Science; Amanda Dhondt, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Goldonna – Princesa Day, Associate of General Studies; Kevin Norman, Bachelor of Science;

Leesville – Kaylee Busby, Terrence Carter, Zoe Curtis, Hannah Hartley, Nautica Joyce, Gabriel Smith, Amy Sporer, Chloe Wilbanks, Presley Youngblood, Associate of General Studies; Kristy Willis, Associate of Science; Victoria Carbaugh, Paula Dease, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Sharia Ashley, Walker Dillon, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Lena – Kamryn Glenn, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Mansfield — James Sowell, Brianna Sudds, Associate of General Studies; Emily Welborn, Bachelor of General Studies; Frita Bristo, Post Baccalaureate Certificate;

Many – Charles LaFollette, Master of Science;

Natchez – Christopher Cayer, Associate of General Studies, Bachelor of Arts;

Natchitoches – Michael Austin, Andrea Chen, Jennifer Johnson, Mary Long, David Peters, Margaret Wheat, Stephen Wheat, Associate of General Studies; Rachel Chimeno, Bachelor of Arts; Steven Wimberly, Bachelor of Music; Mike Alukunyang, Alexis Deville, Mckenna Reed, Bachelor of Science; Taneka Dunn, Karoline Guidry, Austin Nichols, Elizabeth Scott, Alexis Stewart, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; Candice Davis, Bachelor of Social Work; Casey Hendricks, Traci Norris, Doctor of Education; Tracy Maricle, Master of Arts; Christian Broussard, Taylor Pullig, Samuel Wright, Master of Arts in Teaching; Cassandra Kuizin, April Trowbridge, Christian VanBuren, Master of Science;

Pineville – Isabelle Aycock, Latasha Cain, Mari Beth Dewitt, Kaitlyn Edwards, Alaina Herron, Ironda Miles, Victoria Nunez Cardenas, Hannah Shaver, Erin Tracy, Associate of General Studies; Elizabeth Cammack, Lorali Hebert, Allaina Tellis, Bachelor of Science; Latasha Cain, Starlette Cram, LaShundra Duncan-Williamsk, Megan Gypin, Emily Litton, Brook Malone, Bachelor of Science in Nursing; April Negrete, Bachelor of Social Work;

Pleasant Hill – Jacory Jones, Associate of General Studies;

Ringgold – Tyreika Weathers, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Robeline – Alyssa Maley, Morgan Miller, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Saline – Kiley Hough, Julia McManus, Associate of General Studies;

Shreveport – Alexandra Bowden, LaTravia Brown, Monica Greene, Keydran Little, Kristen Massinburg, Justin Morgan, Noah Moser, Kendall Murray, Kendall Sneed, Sara Sutton, Morgan Washington, Associate of General Studies; Troy Davis, Associate of Science; Gregory Below, Angelica Yelverton, Bachelor of General Studies; William Farris, Gabrielle Foreman, Frank Powell, KeAndrea Samuel, Magen Tucker, Bachelor of Science; DayJah Alexander, Naomi Alexander, Micayla Bryan, Divina Ann Cinco, Chenara Dredden, Jennifer Elliott, Heather Ferguson, Jameala Ghazawneh, Karina Goodnight, Anna Green, Alexandra Hahn, Matthew Haltom, Ricci Haltom, Jennifer Harey, Caylin Head, Rhonda Hinton, Mikayla Johnson, Brett Kessel, Sarah Lake, Emily Lawrence, Erin Mabry, Hunter Martin, Myles Mitchell, Stephanie Montgomery, Sarah Payne, Valerie Perdue, Zachary Person, Kevin Poole, Shelby Rawls, Adrien Ridout, Tonya Salinas-Ceron, Drew Sears, Sha’Mondra Smith, Kendall Sneed, Danielyle Thomas, Tiffany Tidwell, Brandon Williams, India Wright, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

Winnfield – Ashlyn Duck, Associate of General Studies; Caroline Womack, Bachelor of Science in Nursing;

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Natchitoches Parish School Board meeting, December 16, 2021 at 310 Royal Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana.

Supporting documentation for the meeting can be found at :  www.npsb.la

Comments from the public will be received for the duration of both meetings. Comments must be on a specific agenda item. Submitting a comment will generate an email to the Natchitoches Parish School Board which will be read when the appropriate agenda item is being discussed.

To Send an Email: npsb@nat.k12.la.us

WATCH LIVE TONIGHT

https://www.facebook.com/NPJNatLa

Capacity of the room is at 100% which allows for 50 people maximum. Social distancing and facial coverings are strongly encouraged.

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The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center (BDJ Center) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit with the mission to build community in Natchitoches and give access to social and economic success to all its residents. The Legacy Youth Workforce Development Program serves young people 17 to 24 year olds who are out of work and school with barriers to employment. Through the Legacy Cafe, Corner Store and Garden, workforce participants receive job and life skills training which empowers them to lead independent lives.

The BDJ Center’s mission has been made possible by many hardworking, dedicated individuals, such as the staff, volunteers, and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers (VISTAs) who come from all over the US to devote their time and service. The BDJ Center is recruiting to fill five VISTA positions in various areas and they want to share what being a VISTA is all about and how to apply.

VISTAs are “Volunteers In Service To America” who make a difference in communities all over the country, serving full time in one year terms, working to build capacity and sustainability for various projects. Benefits include a daily living allowance, health benefits, paid vacation and more. The contributions made by VISTAs secures the future of organizations like the BDJ Center and enables them to serve more people in years to come.

We asked Shannon Tucker, VISTA Leader at the BDJ Center, Why is this service important? She stated, “I’m starting my third year as a VISTA at the BDJ Center. This time has been full of personal and professional development for me and I am privileged now to share that same opportunity with others. This work has made a difference within me as much as I feel I have made a difference in my community..”

Claire Prymus, President and Founder, stated “We are looking forward to another year of partnership with AmeriCorps and all the bright, new, dedicated VISTAs who will join our team to help secure the future of our programming. Apply today to help our organization continue our mission.”

New AmeriCorps Job Document

To apply, follow the step by step instructions shown in the PDF,  Call (318) 460-7460 Monday – Friday, 8AM – 4PM.

The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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BATON ROUGE- Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin addressed the announcement that Amite City Councilman Kristian Hart and former Chief of Police Jerry Trabona have been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of alleged vote buying in the November and December 2016 elections. Records indicate that the indictment was filed and sealed in May. The grand jury handed down its decision on Nov. 18, and a federal judge unsealed the indictment on Monday, December 13. Information contained in the indictment suggests as many as seven additional persons may be targets of this ongoing investigation.

“Any instance of fraudulent activity in our elections is a grave matter. It can undermine our faith in the democratic process and deter citizens from voting. Credible allegations of fraud or vote buying should always be thoroughly examined, and when warranted, prosecuted. I am incredibly proud of the work done by our Elections Compliance Unit in bringing all the facts of this case to light. Their efforts gave federal prosecutors the information they needed to quickly bring the case before a grand jury,” Ardoin stated.

The Department of State’s Elections Compliance Unit is tasked with investigating and reporting any matters involving violations of the election code. Any violations are referred to parish district attorneys for possible prosecution.

For more information about the Secretary of State’s Elections Division call 225.922.0900. If members of the public would like to report suspected cases of election fraud or violations of the election code, contact the Election Fraud Hotline at 1.800.722.5305.

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NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State’s 2022 early signing class has a decidedly junior college lean to it.

Head coach Brad Laird on Wednesday’s early National Signing Day announced the addition of nine new Demons, seven of which hail from the JUCO ranks.

“It’s a good start,” Laird said. “That’s what it is. It’s a good start as we build toward the 2022 season. When you talk about recruiting, it doesn’t stop. Today is signing day, but this thing will continue to press forward. We were able today to fill some holes we needed with some older guys mixed in with a couple of high school guys. It’s a start, and we look forward to 2022 as this continues to grow.”

Joining the Demons from the junior college level by signing national letters of intent were: East Central (Mississippi) defensive lineman Ray Gibson, Kilgore College running back Kennieth Lacy, Itawamba Community College defensive tackle JaQuon Lott, Jones College offensive lineman Matt Mabry, East Mississippi wide receiver/return specialist Zach Patterson, Copiah-Lincoln wide receiver Erick Rogers and Coahoma Community College linebacker Dez Williams.

Six of the junior college signees hail from the talent-rich Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference, which long has been a fertile recruiting ground for Northwestern State.

Williams was a first-team All-MACCC North selection at Coahoma, recording 57 tackles to lead the Cougars. He is joined by a pair of defensive linemen in Itawamba’s Lott, who was a preseason All-American, and East Central’s Gibson, who notched 31 tackles and two sacks in two seasons at the Decatur, Mississippi, school.

NSU’s Mississippi JUCO haul was split evenly with a trio of offensive players joining the three defenders.

Patterson joined Williams on the MACCC All-State team, earning first-team honors as a return specialist who averaged 23.6 yards per kick return and 8.5 per punt return. In addition to his return skills, Patterson was the Lions’ third-leading receiver, hauling in 27 passes for 357 yards and a team-best eight touchdowns. Fellow receiver Rogers caught 70 passes in his Copian-Lincoln career, covering 776 yards in 21 games.

Up front, Mabry has a reputation as a locker room leader who “plays fast in the run game and very long in pass protection.” In East Central’s five-game COVID-shortened 2020 season, Mabry posted a single-game high grade of 93 percent against East Central.

Lacy led Kilgore College in rushing in the fall with 474 yards and added 134 more yards in the passing game. In Kilgore’s shortened spring season, Lacy showed his big-play ability, rushing for 604 yards on 72 carries, an average of 8.4 yards per rush.

“Offensively, we were able to add some experience on the interior of the offensive line, at running back and added a couple of guys at receiver,” Laird said. “Defensively, we got a couple of defensive linemen and linebackers who will continue to grow in that area. I’m excited about what our coaches were able to do. This time frame of playing in the spring, fast forward to playing 11 games in the fall and to end it with the signing period is a credit to our coaches, our staff and our players for what they did throughout this process.”

Laird credited assistant coaches Josh Jones and Joey Fitzgerald for the success in recruiting Mississippi.

“Their experiences they had recruiting those areas in the past and the relationships they had built in the past really helped us there,” Laird said.

Both of the Demons’ high school signees in the early signing period came on the defensive side of the ball.

Edna Karr linebacker Tory Morgan and Port Arthur (Texas) Memorial defensive end Christian Thomas became the first two prep signees in NSU’s class of 2022.

Thomas, a three-time Super Gold Team selection, hails from the same high school as current Demon linebacker Jomard Valsin while Morgan is the younger brother of former Demon running back Trevor Morgan.

Morgan meanwhile led Louisiana Class 4A defenders in tackles as a junior with 131 (42 for loss) and followed that by earning Defensive Player of the Year honors in the district as a senior, finishing with 119 tackles (25 for loss). A year ago, Morgan played his first career game at Turpin Stadium, racking up 16 tackles in a loss to Carencro.

“We’re going to sign the majority of our high school young men in February,” Laird said. “Both of them had been on campus, which was key for us to be able to sign them. They had been here and had the opportunity to see Natchitoches and Northwestern State and mingle with our coaches. That was important in our process to sign them.”

Morgan’s performances in his final two seasons did not surprise Laird.

“I remember watching him as a sophomore in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs and seeing the impact he had for that program he had for that program then,” Laid said. “Then you add the relationship with his brother, Trevor who played for us for the past five years. To be able to get that caliber of player from that program was big for us.”

2022 Northwestern State Early Signing Class
Ray Gibson, DL, 6-2, 305, Philadelphia, Mississippi, Neshoba Central HS/East Central CC
Kennieth Lacy, RB, 5-9, 185, Kilgore, Texas, Kilgore HS/Kilgore College
JaQuon Lott, DL, 6-4, 315, Lambert, Mississippi, Madison S. Palmer HS/Itawamba CC
Matt Mabry, OL, 6-3, 305, Mendenhall, Mississippi, Mendenhall HS/Jones College
Tory Morgan, LB, 5-11, 213, New Orleans, Louisiana, Edna Karr HS
Zach Patterson, WR/RS, 5-11, 180, Corinth, Mississippi, Corinth HS/East Mississippi CC
Erick Rogers, WR, 5-11, 190, Shannon, Mississippi, Shannon HS/Copiah-Lincoln CC
Christian Thomas, DE, 6-2, 235, Port Arthur, Texas, Memorial HS
Dez Wililams, LB, 6-0, 217, Mound Bayou, Mississippi, Cleveland Central HS/Coahoma CC

Photo:  Chris Reich/NSU Photographic Services

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MONROE – Northwestern State used every bit of the fight and resiliency it showed in the past two games to pull out a 76-72 win at ULM on Wednesday night.

The win was the third straight non-conference road victory for the Lady Demons (6-3), a feat not done since the 1988-89 season.

Although the Lady Demons never trailed in the fourth quarter, a nearly seven-minute stretch without a field goal left the door open for ULM (4-8) to create tense moments in the final minute of the game.

Jordan Todd gave the Lady Demons an eight-point lead with a layup a minute into the final period. Thanks to the perfect free throw shooting over the next seven minutes, the closest ULM got to taking the lead during the stretch was a jumper with 2:29 to go that made it a 69-67 game.

Todd grabbed an offensive rebound 25 seconds later and kicked it out to a wide-open Monette Bolden who drained the 3-pointer, the final three points of her career-high 21 in the game, that ended the drought and set up the exciting finish.

The Warhawks scored two more times in the final minutes, but the Lady Demons answered both with the pivotal shot coming from the right hand of Jiselle Woodson with six second left as the shot clock expired to create the 76-72 final score.

“We had some missed opportunities on the defensive side late in the fourth quarter that allowed them to get some open looks but the girls did a great job down the stretch,” head coach Anna Nimz said. “Right now with their fight and determination it’s about not having to do much other than manage the clock, manage them and keep them even-keeled because they are fighting and have proven it in three straight games. They’re never out. We might get down but they’re not out.”

The Lady Demons finished the game with a cold stretch from the floor but spent the majority of the night lighting up the scoreboard.

After a slow start to the game, trying to diagnose the ULM defense, NSU finished the first quarter on a 7-0 run and went 4-for-5 from the field over the final five minutes to take a comfortable 22-13 lead. The Lady Demons made five 3-pointers in the first quarter and were 7-for-9 from deep before missing the final two attempts of the half.

Woodson knocked down a triple just before the media timeout in the second quarter, part of an 8-0 run that gave NSU its largest lead of the game at 36-22. Jasmin Dixon ended the half on a perfect pick-and-roll from Candice Parramore that made it 42-33.

NSU shot 51 percent from the field and 64 percent from beyond the arc in the first half.

The Warhawks came out swinging in the third quarter with an 8-0 run in just over a minute to cut the lead down to one. A minute later JaMiya Braxton and Karmelah Dean made back-to-back shots to stretch the lead back to two possessions by the third quarter media break.

Another push from ULM, this time with seven straight points, once again made it a one-point game in the final minute of the quarter. Parramore answered the ULM free throws that closed the gap with two of her own eight seconds later.

Playing for the final shot after grabbing a rebound on the defensive end, Bolden took matters into her own hands with a sharp ball fake to create an open look from the right side. The mid-range jumper fell through the net with Bolden drawing the foul with 0.7 seconds left in the quarter. The grad transfer sunk the free throw to give the Lady Demons the lead (63-57) and the momentum heading into the exciting final quarter.

“I don’t know much more to say than she’s got ice in her veins,” Nimz said. “She has that maturity about herself and that extra confidence level that you need, and a coach is very fortunate to have on the team. We have a few kids that I feel good having the ball when the game is on the line, she’s definitely one of them.”

Bolden led all scorers with 21 points while Woodson finished with 19, including the game-sealing jumper. The duo went a combined 14-for-25 from the field in the game and 6-for-7 from beyond the arc.

NSU returns to Prather Coliseum for the first time since Nov. 19 on Saturday for a 1 p.m. game with Tarleton State, the final home game of the 2021 portion of the schedule.

Photo: ULM Athletics

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July 12, 1934 – December 14, 2021

Edward Daniel Stewart, 87, of Natchitoches, Louisiana, veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully in his home on December 14th, 2021, surrounded by his loved ones.

Mr. Ed is survived by his wife of 51 years, Billie Freeman Stewart, his brother Lincoln Stewart (Kathy), sister Dorothy Whitfield, sons Eddie Stewart, Ernie Goleman, daughters Peggy Byrd Hattaway (Chuck), Brenda Coker (David), grandchildren Jessica Byrd, Aimee Byrd, Brandi Guillory Chasteen (David), Joshua Goleman, Amber Goleman Carruth (Gavin), Brittany Guillory Williams (Kennon), David Bentley Coker, Jr., Christian Kole Goleman, great-grandchildren Kaylie Caniglia, Brylee Guillory, Braelyn Chasteen, Ariana Caniglia, Noah Carruth, Kensleigh Goleman, Sawyer Carruth, Emmit Carruth, Jaxon Goleman. He is preceded in death by his parents Albert and Annie Mae Stewart, brothers James Stewart, A.J. Stewart, sisters Mary Francis Stewart, and Marie Stewart.

Ed started his career journey at the Paper Mill in Springhill, La and later gained employment at a local motorcycle shop. There, his love of power sports grew into a career he is best known for to this day. He moved to Monroe, La to work at Howard Griffin, later becoming the Vice President over Power Equipment and Motorcycle Sales. In 1977, Mr. Ed moved his family to Natchitoches to purchase the local Honda motorcycle dealership. Years later, he acquired the Yamaha dealership and joined the two franchises together developing Cane River Cycle, better known as Honda Village. During his time of ownership, he enjoyed sponsoring community organizations, and received numerous state and national awards for exemplary sales and service. These awards allowed Mr. Ed and Mrs. Billie to travel around the world together, and be honored with access to factory production of exclusive new line models. Edward is a retired Board Member of City Bank and Trust Co. and a member of First United Methodist Church. As a former member of Westside Baptist Church and building committee member, he and Mrs. Billie were a part of moving the church from Texas Street to its current location.

Ed was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed traveling and spending time with his family and friends. His favorite mode of transportation was by, you guessed it, his motorcycle, or his motor home.

Visitation and service for Mr. Ed will be held at First United Methodist Church Crossroads. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, December 16th from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be Friday, December 17th at 11:00 a.m. The service will be officiated by Rev. Gary Willis with Eulogy given by Bro. Dwight St. Andre. Interment will follow at Memory Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in his memory to First United Methodist Church, or a local charity of your choice.

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