By Gary McCollum/Opinion

Let’s talk about our first amendment rights for a minute. Everyone knows we have a first amendment right to the freedom of speech, or I assume everyone does.

First let us discover what REALLY is the first Amendment, it reads: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

First, Congress cannot establish a national religion or prevent citizens of the United States from practicing their faith. That would include going to church, reading whichever text that pertains to your religion. Worshiping God as you please and as your religion dictates. As this was put in the very first sentence of the first amendment, our founding fathers felt very strongly about this. (Quick question: Have you seen a violation of this to some degree recently?)

Now on to the press. They have the freedom of the press and that my friends were intended to help be the fourth arm of our government. It keeps or is supposed to be able to hold our politicians/representatives of the people to a high standard. I really wish in my heart that the mainstream media would get back to the old lessons I was taught when reporting on a story. “Who, What, When, Where, and Why.

Today’s 24 hour news cycle is inundated with more opinion that is reported as fact, hundreds of reports using unnamed sources, and let’s be honest just lies to try and make a headline or a storyline that fits a narrative and makes it more exciting. The Freedom of the press does extend to citizen journalists who frequently resort to social media to do their own reporting, be it a blog, a post, even a “MEME”, which brings us to a further discussion in just a bit.

Next it tells us that there is NO abridging of the freedom of speech. You can say what you want. (there are limits, no you cannot yell fire in a crowded theatre for instance) It seems simple. We as Americans have the right to say what we want. Great discussions have been started this way. We can question our government, be it local, state or even national.

Do we really have free speech? The first amendment says we do, but as you may have seen recently it can be quite complex. For instance, if you want to post something on a social media platform and “THE OWNERS” of the many platforms deem you have violated one of their many policies; they can ban your post, cover your post with fact checking (that is usually one sided and sometimes incorrect itself), they can restrict your ability to post for a time, or even ban you completely from their platforms. Being a privately or publicly held platform used as a money-making entity. They do have the right to edit/moderate the content on their sites as they must protect their services and of course , you, as a user has signed but I highly doubt many have read the user agreements. There have been many arguments on how social media should be regulated. Some wish them to have greater authority to remove content they deem offensive or harmful, while others argue there should be limited editing at all. I can tell you as a lay person, those arguments go well and beyond me. I predict these arguments will continue to go on regarding the first amendment on social media platforms for a long time to come.

Many Americans distrust the mainstream media outlets and frequently turn to social media for their news. I have learned about many news stories from social media long before they were carried on local news media. Even the media can censor you should they not like your opinion or what you are saying, should it not fit the narrative that they are trying to convey. Yes, in case you did not realize it, the media in all forms, in our nation has become a mistrusted source of information. You should question all stories and do additional research.

And finally, the first amendment guarantees the citizens the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. I fully support this section of the first amendment as well as the others. It does not allow the protestors to infringe upon other’s rights including their rights to the first amendment. To often of late we have seen protestors that have passion, carry those passions to rioting. No where in the first amendment does it grant one permission to destroy personal property, assault individuals, deface or threaten another. In fact: threatening a person with violence or intimidation to their political views is classified as terrorism.

We have seen protests, rioting, and yes domestic terrorism going on nationally. I find much of this very disturbing. While many make excuses saying these are oppressed peoples fighting for their rights, or young people with passion and it is just getting a little out of control, I disagree.

Have you ever heard the phrase “If you forget history you are bound to repeat it?”

Recently we have seen the new term being touted as the “Cancel Culture” I am offering no opinions on the items being removed, but I do remember my history lessons and find it disturbing. Let me offer you a few points to ponder.

In the 1930’s there were massive book burnings. The books targeted for burning were those viewed as being subversive or as representing ideologies opposed to by a political party. The books being burned were viewed as being politically incorrect, subversive, offensive to the ideology of the group supporting it. The books were written by pacifists, religious, liberal, sexologists, anarchists, socialists, and communists.

On April 8, 1933, the Main Office for Press and propaganda of the Student Union proclaimed a nationwide “Action against the Politically incorrect Spirit”, which was to climax in a literary purge or “cleansing” by fire.
This was in Nazi Germany.

This can never happen in the United States of America.
I say it already is. Canceling television shows including cartoons for children. When the Nazi party invaded France, they stole artwork deemed as precious and valuable and kept it for themselves. They destroyed the paintings, statues, and artwork they felt were politically incorrect. (they did melt down the statures for the value of their metal for the war effort)

We have protested and the protests have been heard. The government is addressing your grievances. I expect to see some retraining, some community outreach, and hopefully other programs that I am unaware of. I personally would like to see “Officer Friendly” return to our elementary schools.

We must be careful, there is a war on police that is unjustified. Yes, there are probably 1 in 200 police that have a dark heart. Society cannot paint them with the broad brush that has tainted others. Just because you received bad service at one restaurant does not make all servers bad. I support the blue line that allows me to sleep peacefully at night. I support the officers who were bullet proof vests every day, that they now are almost casual attire. I am not going to change your preconceived notions, but I pray you will open your hearts and think about who guards that small line between violence and peace for you.

This of course is just my personal thoughts, yours may differ. I for one am glad we have the first amendment and we can have this discourse.

God Bless.
Gary A. McCollum

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Northwestern State University students and alumni have launched a campaign to further diversity education in schools by purchasing children’s books written by and for black, indigenous and people of color. The Children’s Diversity Education Fund seeks to partner with public schools and libraries to donate and read books to children that teach lessons on race, diversity, identity and unity.

Theater students Myjoycia Cezar and Sarah Lord Holoubek and alumni Bethany Lee and Madalyn Mullins, along with friends from Shreveport, raised $1,000 in three days to purchase books. Cezar, CDEF founder, has been invited to speak about the initiative to the Natchitoches Parish School Board’s Cultural Diversity committee.

“Within the aftermath of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and many other people of color’s deaths and the further prevalence of racism in the U.S., I’ve been inspired to work to make a difference in communities through educating children to love diversity,” said Cezar, a junior who is involved in several student organizations.

“Our goal is to encourage children to celebrate diversity and host/facilitate conversations about race, culture and identity with children so it becomes a subject everyone is comfortable talking about because everything goes back to education,” Cezar said. “Our campaign is working to have posts in Shreveport, Natchitoches, and Baton Rouge to start off, and we are contacting Louisiana’s educational leadership as well to really get new supporters.”

For more information, contact Cezar at mcezar167663@nsula.edu.

Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. (CRNHA) will host a virtual craft event titled: Fishing on Cane River & Father’s Day Craft, June 19, 2020 at 10:00am.

The Cane River Craft Club is a virtual comprehensive learning and exploration experience with hands-on crafts, guest-starring local experts from our heritage sites. This month, Heritage Explorers will be making a Father’s Day fish key chain while learning about fishing and natural resources on Cane River from Dustin Fuqua, Chief of Resource Management at Cane River Creole National Historical Park.

Each craft kit is $10 which includes all crafting supplies and a 30-minute Zoom class that provides crafting instructions and an educational lesson.

Here’s how to participate:

1. Register and purchase your craft kit via Eventbrite on the Facebook event at Cane River NHA.

2. Pick up the craft kit on June 17th or 18th from 12-1 or 3-4 at the CRNHA office at 1115 Washington Street, Natchitoches.

3. Tune in to Zoom on June 19th at 10:00am.

Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that manages the congressionally designated Cane River National Heritage Area. Its mission is to preserve and promote the cultural and natural resources of Cane River and encourage economic development by strengthening heritage tourism in the region.

The Northwestern State Athletic Department has announced a trio of promotions spanning the department.

Administrators Dr. Haley Taitano and Mike Jaworski along with men’s basketball coach Jeff Moore will have new titles, according to Director of Athletics Greg Burke.

Taitano, a former school record holder in the pole vault, has been elevated to deputy athletic director after spending more than three years as the department’s associate athletic director for external affairs. She will retain duties as the department’s Senior Woman Administrator and assume additional administrative duties along with oversight for all aspects of NSU’s external operations, including development, marketing/branding, ticketing and media relations. Under Taitano’s leadership, the NSU Athletic Department recently earned a gold medal in sponsorship activation from the National Association for Collegiate Marketing Administrators “Best Of” competition as well as bronze medal in the single-event sales campaign category.

“Haley has been and will continue to be an invaluable asset to the NSU athletic program,” said Burke. “Her passion and purpose on a daily basis epitomize the term ‘Demon spirit’ and from my perspective as Athletic Director, make her a joy with whom to work side by side on a daily basis to promote the NSU Demon brand and most importantly, to position our student-athletes and coaches for success on all levels. Furthermore, her commitment to our student-athletes is unwavering and is evident day in and day out. Promoting Haley to Deputy Athletic Director is in recognition of what she’s accomplished and in anticipation of the contributions she no doubt will continue to make for her alma mater in the coming years.”

Mike Jaworski, an Academic All-American during his Demon baseball career, has been promoted to assistant athletic director for development and engagement after spending the past two-plus years as the Director of Development and Engagement. Jaworski was scheduled to present during the annual National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics convention before its cancelation. He also penned a column for the most recent NACDA magazine, which spotlights one athletic department member from a Division I university per issue. Jaworski has spearheaded efforts to exponentially grow the N-Club, NSU’s letterman’s association, which has resulted in increases in memberships, revenue and attendance at reunions and athletic events.

“Mike has made a tremendous impact on the NSU athletic program in a short period of time,” said Taitano. “The passion that he has for our department as a former athlete and graduate assistant coach, and now as a staff member, is invaluable. He has contacted countless former athletes and reconnected them with NSU athletics, while raising much needed dollars through expansion of the N-Club and through the Demons Unlimited Foundation annual fund. Mike has also been able to connect with a number of athletic administrators within our industry through professional development opportunities, resulting in fresh perspective and innovative ideas which have benefitted the NSU athletic program. Finally, Mike’s dependability, reliability and work ethic are intangibles that make him such a valuable asset to our department.”

Jeff Moore, a member of the Northwestern State men’s basketball staff for 14 years, has been named associate head coach. Moore has played key roles in recruiting and in maintaining the program’s lofty academic standards while helping lead the Demons to the 2013 Southland Conference Tournament championship, an SLC divisional championship and two other SLC Tournament title game appearances.

“We are fortunate to have an individual who is as dedicated, loyal and hard-working as Jeff Moore,” said head coach Mike McConathy. “Every day, he comes to work with a blue-collar mentality. He gives it all he has to give – just like he and our staff ask our players to give their best. Jeff embodies the idea that coaches cannot have a bad day, because the team depends on him.

“Jeff, Amy, Gracie and Caige are a great example of a family that is committed to our program, university and community. I am grateful and thankful for all he and his family do for our program and athletic department. Jeff is most deserving of this new title. I am the most fortunate person in this equation to have enjoyed his assistance for the past 14 years.”

In the following report from the NPSO, the following corrections should be noted:

“Creston Waterworks System” should be “Creston Water System, Inc.”

“independent certified auditor” and “auditor” should be “local accouting firm”.

ORIGINAL REPORT:

An investigation into financial improprieties at the Creston Waterworks System in north Natchitoches Parish has led to the arrest of a Creston woman on felony theft charges according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began on May 6, 2020 when Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies received a complaint of funds allegedly missing from the Creston Waterworks system.

An offense report was completed and turned over to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division for investigative purposes.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives, and an independent certified auditor began to investigate the allegations.

Detectives and auditors began reviewing documents, banking and financial records of the Creston Waterworks since 2013 until April of 2020.

During the course of the investigation, detectives and auditors determined approximately $173,000.00 dollars in waterworks funds had been taken.

Detectives then began focusing their attention towards the Creston Waterworks Secretary/Bookkeeper.

On May 8, Detectives assigned to the NPSO High Tech Crime Unit executed a search warrant at the Creston Waterworks Office seizing forensic evidence for analysis.

Detectives interviewed the secretary on May 19 and May 21 at the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division.

During the course of those interviews, detectives learned Miss Harper allegedly used unauthorized waterworks funds to pay several personal credit card bills and overpaid herself.

Detectives continued to gather additional information from auditors.

As a result of the investigation:

On Thursday June 11, Wendie Weaver Harper, 52, of the 600 block of Sandy Point Road, Campti, La. reported to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division where she was arrested in connection with the investigation.

Harper was transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with 1-count of Felony Theft.

A Tenth Judicial District Court Judge has set bond at $100,000.00.

Detectives say the investigation is ongoing while they continue to interview witnesses.

If you have any information contact Asst. Chief of Investigations Detective Reginald Turner at 318-357-7830.

The case will be forwarded to the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Detectives remind public entities it is very important to keep proper records and have yearly audits completed.

NATCHITOCHES:
Willie Piece
June 8, 2020
Mr. Piece will lie instate Saturday, June 20th from 9am-11am for a walk thru viewing. Due to COVID-19, there will be no congregating allowed and everyone must wear a face covering. A private homegoing celebration and final masonic rites will be held at 11am for immediate family only. All services will be held at the Abundant Life Church in Natchitoches.

William T. Gistand Jr.
June 13, 2020
Arrangements TBA

SABINE:
Bessie Lee Oxley
April 22, 1926 – June 12, 2020
Visitation: Tuesday, June 16 at 12 pm at Beulah Baptist Church
Service: Tuesday, June 16 at 2 pm at Beulah Baptist Church
Interment: Beulah Cemetery

WINN:
Raymond Nathaniel Parker
January 27, 1948 – May 22, 2020
Arrangements TBA

Joann Henson
June 11, 2020
COVID19 restrictions regarding attendance, social distancing and wearing of facial masks will govern the funeral service at the Winnfield Funeral Home Chapel, 117 MLK Dr., Winnfield, LA 71483 Saturday, June 20, 2020, 2 p. m. Burial will follow in the Saline Grove Cemetery in the Calvin Community. The visitation will take place one hour before service time.

RED RIVER:
Mary Ellen Wood
February 28, 1931 – June 14, 2020
Service: Tuesday, June 16 at 10 am at Bethany Cemetery.

Defend Against COVID-19

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Maintain a Social Distance of 6ft. Social distancing means keeping 6ft. of physical space between yourself and others. This helps to prevent the spread of illness.

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It is with heavy hearts and sincere sympathy that the Master and Wardens of Dawn of Light Lodge No. 22 announce the passing of our oldest member. On Monday, June 8, 2020, Brother Willie Piece entered into eternal rest leaving a lasting legacy with the members of the Prince Hall Affiliated family.

Worshipful Brother Charles Payton, Sr. recalled Bro. Piece serving during his tenure as Master of the Lodge as a personal counsellor and trusted advisor. Humble, dependable and faithful were words used to describe the kind of mason Bro. Piece was. Worshipful Brother Lee Arthur White, Jr. visited with Bro. Piece during his stay in the nursing home and says that Bro. Piece would always “grip” him.

While Brother Piece never served as Master of his lodge, his personal obligations never waivered. During the sixty plus years of his membership, several Masters appointed him to serve as one of the deacons or chaplain of the lodge. “He was a prayer warrior” Past Master Charles Payton said of Bro. Piece.

Worshipful Master Jeremy Odom stated that “While I have never had the opportunity to sit in lodge with Brother Piece, I can say that Brother Piece was the type of mason that we all should strive to emulate.” Bro. Piece became a Master Mason on February 23, 1959 and has supported the Dawn of Light Lodge over the years. His family fondly remembers how much he loved Dawn of Light and the great care he took in keeping his gloves and apron clean.

Armed with no more than a third grade education, Mr. Piece built his home in Natchitoches rearing ten children, retiring from the City of Natchitoches, and faithfully serving his church for many years up until going into the nursing home. He was also the oldest deacon in New Beulah Baptist Association. His passing has garnered the condolences from members of the Prince Hall family from across the nation.

Dawn of Light Lodge will continue to remember the life and legacy of Mr. Willie Piece for years to come. “I have no doubt in my mind that he loved God, his family, the church and his masonic family” Odom stated of Bro. Piece.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted Robinson Family Mortuary of Pineville. Mr. Piece will lie instate Saturday, June 20th from 9am-11am for a walk thru viewing. Due to COVID-19, there will be no congregating allowed and everyone must wear a face covering. A private homegoing celebration and final masonic rites will be held at 11am for immediate family only. All services will be held at the Abundant Life Church in Natchitoches.

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The header of new Northwestern State strength coach Erik Schwager’s Twitter profile has been “Estrengthcoach” since Schwager was hired just days before college sports across the country ceased because of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Schwager spent his first three months communicating workout plans and demonstrating exercises digitally and through social media, but that changed this week.

More than 10 NSU student-athletes from five sports returned to campus for voluntary workouts this week, the first time Schwager has been face-to-face with his Demons and Lady Demons.

“I’m not one that likes to do a lot of social media or post videos, so it’s nice to coach these kids in person and get them ready for their season,” said Schwager, who spent four years at Newberry College and has experience at places like Princeton and Michigan State among others. “I was so excited to work with the kids in person … that you have to make sure you don’t go overboard with the kids coming back and not knowing what they’ve done all summer.

“It’s been a blast the past couple of days being on the (football) field and in the weight room.”

The strength and conditioning staff as well as the athletics training staff were prepared to start voluntary workouts Monday, but COVID-19 test results didn’t return in time.

The NCAA began allowing voluntary workouts starting June 1, but NSU wanted to ensure that all procedures and safety measures reflect state and national guidelines to reduce the risk of infection.

NSU collaborated with the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center to author guidelines, which includes COVID-19 antibody testing for all student-athletes prior to starting workouts.

“We were geared up and ready to go Monday, and it was a letdown that those test results weren’t back, but we put the health and safety of our student-athletes above all else,” said Schwager, who also introduced new assistant strength coach Derek Stein in person to student-athletes this week. “We started Tuesday and really got after it.

“I’m impressed with how the kids came back and how they are adapting to our system and training. The kids have been really responsive even when we didn’t have them on campus, and a lot of kids have reached out to me about workouts and what they can and can’t do. We’re just having fun right now, and I can’t wait for July and August when we can hopefully get back closer to normal.”

The Northwestern State University Foundation will host Giving Tuesday on June 16 to raise funds for student scholarships, academic programming and professional development for faculty.

“Circumstances this year have created many hardships for our students,” said Jill Bankston, CFRE, director of Development. “Although we will certainly accept donations to each area of need, we are hoping to get donations to three primary areas, which we have labeled as the President’s Priorities: the NSU Coronavirus Relief Fund, The Columns Fund and the Dr. Robert Alost Memorial Scholarship.”

“We have been able to help many students make rent, buy groceries and meet other basic needs, as well as ease the burden students have with tuition and fees,” Bankston added. “Our NSU supporters have been phenomenally generous during these last few difficult months and we are doing all that we can to continue that support.”

As the summer heat sets in, gardeners are starting to notice more nuisances in the garden: insects. From chewing pests like caterpillars to piercing insects (covered in next month’s article) like leaf-footed bugs, they are all appearing, and each presents its own unique set of problems. In addition to physical damage to plants and fruit, these insects can spread diseases, some of which can reduce a healthy plant to a withered mess in a single day.

Caterpillars

There are a number of caterpillars that you may find in your garden. Hornworms are among the most recognizable. All cause chewing damage, usually to leaves and stems, but some will burrow into the fruit such as tomato fruitworms. If possible, hand picking the worms is the best option rather than using an insecticide. However, if an insecticide is necessary, the good news is that identifying the type of caterpillar you have is not necessary for treatment. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an effective organic option for getting rid of caterpillars. If you have a high number of caterpillars, another organic option is spinosad. Spinosad will provide faster control than Bt. Spinosad is a contact herbicide while Bt must be consumed by the caterpillar. Other options include bifenthrin, carbaryl, and others. Always read and follow the directions on the label and pay special attention to the pre-harvest interval (PHI), which specifies the amount of time required between treatment and harvest.

Cucumber beetles

Another commonly encountered garden insect is the cucumber beetle. There are three types of cucumber beetles: striped, spotted, and banded. Both the larvae and adult feed on plants, especially the foliage and fruit of cucurbits. The striped cucumber beetle can also spread bacterial wilt to plants that it feeds on. Bacterial wilt causes plants to wilt and die very fast. Often, plants are fine in the morning and dead by the evening of the same day. There is nothing that can be done for bacterial wilt. Products such as permethrin, bifenthrin, and carbaryl are broad spectrum insecticides that can be used against cucumber beetles. Neem can also be used.

For more information contact Randall Mallette, County Agent, at the local LSU AgCenter Extension Office 318-357-2224.

The header of new Northwestern State strength coach Erik Schwager’s Twitter profile has been “Estrengthcoach” since Schwager was hired just days before college sports across the country ceased because of the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Schwager spent his first three months communicating workout plans and demonstrating exercises digitally and through social media, but that changed this week.

More than 10 NSU student-athletes from five sports returned to campus for voluntary workouts this week, the first time Schwager has been face-to-face with his Demons and Lady Demons.

“I’m not one that likes to do a lot of social media or post videos, so it’s nice to coach these kids in person and get them ready for their season,” said Schwager, who spent four years at Newberry College and has experience at places like Princeton and Michigan State among others. “I was so excited to work with the kids in person … that you have to make sure you don’t go overboard with the kids coming back and not knowing what they’ve done all summer.

“It’s been a blast the past couple of days being on the (football) field and in the weight room.”

Redshirt freshman offensive lineman Spencer Cody is one of four football players participating in workouts, something he said is uplifting when compared to solitary conditioning.

“You can work out by yourself all the time, but working out with real teammates is truly a blessing,” Cody said. “We hold each other accountable and make sure everybody is doing the right thing.

“(Schwager) kept in touch with us through the whole quarantine, and it’s real exciting to meet him in person for the first time. I think he’s even more excited than us because he gets to be around a new group and see who he’s going to be working with for the next couple of years.”

The strength and conditioning staff as well as the athletics training staff were prepared to start voluntary workouts Monday, but COVID-19 test results didn’t return in time.

The NCAA began allowing voluntary workouts starting June 1, but NSU wanted to ensure that all procedures and safety measures reflect state and national guidelines to reduce the risk of infection.

NSU collaborated with the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center to author guidelines, which includes COVID-19 antibody testing for all student-athletes prior to starting workouts.

“We were geared up and ready to go Monday, and it was a let down that those test results weren’t back, but we put the health and safety of our student-athletes above all else,” said Schwager, who also introduced new assistant strength coach Derek Stein in person to student-athletes this week. “We started Tuesday and really got after it.

“I’m impressed with how the kids came back and how they are adapting to our system and training. The kids have been really responsive even when we didn’t have them on campus, and a lot of kids have reached out to me about workouts and what they can and can’t do. We’re just having fun right now, and I can’t wait for July and August when we can hopefully get back closer to normal.”

Junior running back Trevor Morgan said he can sense Schwager’s energy even more in person.

“It’s going extremely well so far. When you meet somebody in person and not just through text or video, you can feel their vibe and know what they expect when you train with them,” Morgan said. “It’s good to feel each other out, and it’s great to be around teammates again.”

CREDIT: Brad Welborn/NSU Sports Information

NATCHITOCHES:
Willie Piece
June 8, 2020
Mr. Piece will lie instate Saturday, June 20th from 9am-11am for a walk thru viewing. Due to COVID-19, there will be no congregating allowed and everyone must wear a face covering. A private homegoing celebration and final masonic rites will be held at 11am for immediate family only. All services will be held at the Abundant Life Church in Natchitoches.

William T. Gistand Jr.
June 13, 2020
Arrangements TBA

SABINE:
Priscilla Ann Anderson
November 24, 1939 – June 12, 2020
Service: Monday, June 15 at 10 am at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church

WINN:
Lewis Edward Dempsey Jr.
August 24, 1962 – June 10, 2020
Arrangements TBA

Debra K. Zimmerman
December 09, 1958 – June 10, 2020
Arrangements TBA

RED RIVER:
Mary Ellen Wood
February 28, 1931 – June 14, 2020
Visitation: Monday, June 15 from 6-8 pm at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home
Service: Tuesday, June 16 at 10 am at Bethany Cemetery.

An investigation into financial improprieties at the Creston Waterworks System in north Natchitoches Parish has led to the arrest of a Creston woman on felony theft charges according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The investigation began on May 6, 2020 when Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies received a complaint of funds allegedly missing from the Creston Waterworks system.

An offense report was completed and turned over to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division for investigative purposes.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives, and an independent certified auditor began to investigate the allegations.

Detectives and auditors began reviewing documents, banking and financial records of the Creston Waterworks since 2013 until April of 2020.

During the course of the investigation, detectives and auditors determined approximately $173,000.00 dollars in waterworks funds had been taken.

Detectives then began focusing their attention towards the Creston Waterworks Secretary/Bookkeeper.

On May 8, Detectives assigned to the NPSO High Tech Crime Unit executed a search warrant at the Creston Waterworks Office seizing forensic evidence for analysis.

Detectives interviewed the secretary on May 19 and May 21 at the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division.

During the course of those interviews, detectives learned Miss Harper allegedly used unauthorized waterworks funds to pay several personal credit card bills and overpaid herself.

Detectives continued to gather additional information from auditors.

As a result of the investigation:

On Thursday June 11, Wendie Weaver Harper, 52, of the 600 block of Sandy Point Road, Campti, La. reported to the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division where she was arrested in connection with the investigation.

Harper was transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center charged with 1-count of Felony Theft.

A Tenth Judicial District Court Judge has set bond at $100,000.00.

Detectives say the investigation is ongoing while they continue to interview witnesses.

If you have any information contact Asst. Chief of Investigations Detective Reginald Turner at 318-357-7830.

The case will be forwarded to the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Detectives remind public entities it is very important to keep proper records and have yearly audits completed.

By Reba Phelps

One beautiful and sunny day, while at work, I was summoned to the front office to meet with a client who had an appointment. As I made my way up the hall I was feeling excited and even had a little spring in my step. I had spoken with this client many times on the phone but had never met her face to face. Most of my business relationships begin with a phone call or a referral from another colleague or community member, so this is not atypical. In some cases, due to technology, we may never meet face to face.

So, I do count it as pure joy when I am finally able to meet a client in person.

When I entered the lobby I knew without a doubt who she was. I knew this because she appeared as happy as she sounded on the phone. Her hair was perfectly coiffed and her attire was so bright and cheerful. She had earrings and other accessories that matched her sparkling personality and her ensemble. She looked exactly how I thought she would.

Happy.

Once we made our way into my office we began discussing the business at hand but our appointment quickly grew into a personal conversation. She told what brought her back to Natchitoches after being gone for so many years. She told me about her parents and her successful career before retirement. Once we covered the basics of our past and present she asked me if I had any hobbies.

I drew a blank. Do I have a real true hobby?

With much shame and regret I could not let on that I was living a hobby-less lifestyle. I quickly babbled something about being busy with kids and work but really…I was just a boring soul. I then tried turning all of our attention back to her and her hobbies. She was way more interesting than I was. She was beaming with excitement when she told me that she was learning to play the piano and loved remodeling homes. I literally sat there in awe listening to how majestic, fun and peaceful her life sounded.

My new friend was very inquisitive and clever. She was not convinced that I had nothing to offer in the hobby department. She asked me if anything had ever piqued my interest but I just hadn’t taken the plunge. The only thing I could possibly think of was writing.

She went on to inquire why I haven’t started writing. I really didn’t have a valid reason other than I just haven’t made time for it and had no clue what I would even write about.

I had long been interested in blogging or anecdotal stories with a spiritual twist but the more I researched blogging it was too high maintenance for me. Most bloggers post daily or multiple times a week and they have a target audience whom they are trying to reach to push products and garner attention from companies. I just didn’t fit this mold.

My new friend took this a step further and let me know that I should just write every single day. Just write something and see what comes out. She went on to tell me that we are all gifted with interests that casually appear but soon they keep tugging at you until you explore them. Once you explore them then you can perfect them with practice.

It took me a few months after our visit to realize that my interest in writing was not going away. I am still figuring out exactly where it is going. God has opened up so many doors for me. I do believe my new friend was put in my path to encourage me and to teach me that you are never too old to add new interests.

Chances are…our interests have been within us since birth. We just need to find the confidence and encouragement to make them happen. Do you like to sing? Do you like to write? Do you like to sew or bake? Do you like to garden? Do you like to encourage people? Do you like to organize? Do you like to volunteer? Have you thought about starting a business?

What is holding you back? Take the first step today. Don’t deny what God has for you to do. It may be the most fulfilling and satisfying thing you have in your life. If you are unsure I will check with my friend to see if she is available by appointment to encourage you.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying then prophesy in accordance with your faith; If it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching; then teach. If it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously, if it is to lead; do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully” – Romans 12:6-8

City Bank and Trust, is your one stop for all your Mortgage loan needs. If you are looking to purchase, to refinance or update your existing home. We are here to help you through the process.

We offer Conventional, Rural Development and FHA Home Loans.

Contact Josh Pierson at 318-357-3729 or Kenny Thomas at 318-352-4416

Louisiana has been fortunate to have dedicated poll workers who have served for years; however, we must recruit and train thousands of poll workers across the state every election and for emergencies like we are facing today with COVID-19. You can help!

You just need to meet a few requirements to be selected:

You must:

Be a registered voter in Louisiana;
Be able to perform the essential duties of a poll worker;
Attend a course of instruction as required; and
Not be a candidate in the election.

You may also serve if you are at least 17 years of age and a high school senior or older, or if you are registered to vote in another state and are a student at an institution of higher learning. Trained poll workers can earn up to $200 an election after attending the pre-election course of instruction and passing the test. The job isn’t complicated, and anyone who has worked at the polls will tell you it’s one of the most rewarding ways you can help your community!

It’s easy to help your community:

You will attend a training class to learn how to be a poll worker.
On election day, you will help set up the polling place before voters arrive. (Start time will be given to you by your clerk of court, but is generally 30 minutes to an hour before the polls open).
You will open the polls. For July 11, 2020 and August 15, 2020, polls open at 7:00 a.m.
You will check voters in at the polling place and allow them to cast their votes.
You will close the polls at the end of election day. Polls close at 8:00 p.m., but all voters in line at 8:00 p.m. are allowed to cast their vote.

On the day you are scheduled to work, you must:

Provide your own transportation to and from your assigned precinct.
Bring your own food, and drinks for the day.
You must remain at the polling place all day. Poll workers are unable to leave the facility.

To become a qualified poll worker, fill out the Poll Worker Application and send it to:

Secretary of State
Elections Division
ATTENTION: Julie Guidroz
P.O. Box 94125
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9125
225.922.1167 (fax)