Phonetic: /ex·pli·cate/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
to give a detailed explanation of
to develop the implications of : analyze logically
Word of the Day: Explicate
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News Articles
Phonetic: /ex·pli·cate/
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition
to give a detailed explanation of
to develop the implications of : analyze logically
Sue Mathis Shaw
Service: Friday at 11:30 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Natchitoches Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.
The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested the following individuals over the past week:
If you would like to report suspicious activity please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.
How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:
You can also report a tip anonymously by downloading the P3 Tips app on your smart phone or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388. All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $5,000 for the arrest of an offender.
A commercial vehicle fire temporarily closed both northbound lanes of Interstate 49 near mile marker 154 late July 17, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 11:30 p.m., Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s deputies and Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District No. 7 responded to the scene.
The truck was transporting salt water.
Both northbound lanes were closed while firefighters worked to contain the fire, resulting in traffic delays through the area.
Deputy S. Kennedy assisted with traffic on behalf of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
According to NATCOM 911 records, the driver told communications specialists the fire originated from a tire before spreading.
Louisiana State Police also responded to the scene.
At 11:52 p.m., one northbound lane reopened, and motorists were advised to avoid distractions while traveling through the area.
By 12:27 a.m., both northbound lanes had reopened, and motorists were advised to drive carefully in the area.
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office Detective Sgt. Cody Olliff, Deputy Alonzo Middleton, and Deputy Joshua Owusu-Duku attended funeral services for United States Deputy Marshal Michael Andrew “Drew” Hanson at The Pentecostals of Alexandria Church in Alexandria, Louisiana.
Deputy Marshal Hanson was tragically killed in the line of duty on July 13, 2026, while serving and protecting the citizens of our nation. His courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.
The attendance of NPSO deputies represented our agency’s respect and gratitude for a fellow law enforcement officer who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of others. Law enforcement officers from across Louisiana and across the United States gathered to pay their final respects and honor Deputy Marshal Hanson’s life, service, and unwavering commitment to duty.
On behalf of Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright and the men and women of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Deputy Marshal Hanson’s wife, children, family, friends, co-workers, and the United States Marshals Service.
We also ask that our community continue to keep Deputy Marshal Hanson, his loved ones, the United States Marshals Service, and all members of the law enforcement community in your thoughts and prayers during the difficult days and weeks ahead.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13
We will never forget the service, sacrifice, and legacy of United States Deputy Marshal Michael Andrew “Drew” Hanson.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office proudly welcomed five new deputies during a recent swearing-in ceremony conducted by Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court David Stamey.
Sheriff Stuart Wright introduced the newest members of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office family: Deputy Mikerra Evans, School Resource Officer; Deputy Kendall Murray, Patrol Division; Deputy Jimmy Fife, Patrol Division; Deputy Hyacinth Frank, Patrol Division; and Deputy Hannah Derranger, Human Resources Administrative Assistant.
Each took the official Oath of Office and will begin in-service training immediately. Three of the deputies are scheduled to attend the Alexandria Regional Police Academy later this month as part of their continued preparation for duty, while Deputy Evans is already a Louisiana P.O.S.T.-certified peace officer.
“We are proud to welcome these new deputies to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Stuart Wright. “Their commitment to serving our parish and ensuring public safety is commendable. We look forward to supporting and mentoring them as they begin their careers with our agency.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining a strong, professional, and well-trained team dedicated to protecting life and property, enforcing the law, and providing the highest level of service to the residents and visitors of Natchitoches Parish.
Members of the NPSO Human Resources Division are assisting the new employees throughout their transition into the Sheriff’s Office, ensuring they have the resources and support needed as they begin their new assignments.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office congratulates each of these new deputies and employees on this important milestone and welcomes them to the NPSO family.
As these men and women begin their careers of public service, we ask that God place His guiding hand upon each of them, grant them wisdom in their decisions, courage in the face of adversity, strength to meet every challenge, and compassion for those they serve. May He watch over and protect them each day as they faithfully fulfill their oath to serve and protect the citizens of Natchitoches Parish, and may He safely return them home to their families at the end of every shift.
Welcome to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office family, and thank you for your commitment to serving the citizens of Natchitoches Parish.
The Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission met July 16 for its monthly meeting, receiving financial updates and reports from local organizations on upcoming events and projects throughout the Historic District.
Vanner Erikson reported that Northwestern State University recently completed its Freshman Connection sessions, serving 175 more students than last year. He thanked the commission for its assistance in welcoming students and families to Natchitoches.
Upcoming NSU events include registration on July 23, continued performances of the summer dinner theater, Summer Bridge activities for football, basketball, volleyball and baseball, move-in day on Aug. 15, and the first day of classes on Aug. 17. Erikson also announced the Top of the Boot Festival will be held Oct. 17 in conjunction with an NSU football game.
Sandra Dickens reported approximately 170 vehicles have registered for the HDBA Car Show. Information to participants has been delayed because of ongoing construction.
Rebecca Blankenbaker provided an update on the Cane River National Heritage Area’s kickoff for the 100th Natchitoches Christmas season. A Christmas in July celebration is planned for Friday, July 24, featuring a press conference, poster unveiling, sponsor recognition, the opening of the Christmas 100 exhibit, holiday music, refreshments and exhibit tours.
Downtown businesses will participate by decorating for Christmas, offering special promotions, and serving holiday-themed food and drinks.
Lee Akin reported that tickets for the Christmas Tour of Homes are already available online. Individuals purchasing tickets before Labor Day will be entered into a drawing featuring items from local vendors. The Roque House will be open for tours during the July 24 celebration.
Gayle Howell announced the Melrose Arts, Food and Wine Festival has been rescheduled for Oct. 10-11. APHN will host a White Linen Night membership appreciation event Aug. 20 at 5 p.m. at the Lemee House.
The commission also reviewed upcoming Riverbank events, including:
Student applies classroom learning while developing workplace skills through summer internship
Northwestern State University student Jude Oliva is spending the summer gaining professional experience through an internship with Enterprise Mobility, where he is learning the day-to-day operations of the company while preparing for his future career.
Oliva, of Raceland, about 30 minutes south of Thibodaux, is a senior communication major who expects to graduate in May 2027. He learned about the internship through NSU Career Services before connecting with Enterprise representatives at a campus career fair.
“Career Services told me about Enterprise and how they always hire interns,” Oliva said. “I went to a career fair, and Hope from Enterprise was there. I spoke to her, and it just snowballed from there. Just the job description of being a people person, I mean, that’s me. I loved it off the bat.”
During the internship, Oliva is gaining experience in customer service, communication and business operations while working alongside Enterprise employees.
Oliva said his experiences at Northwestern State helped prepare him for the fast-paced environment of the internship.
“Being in Freshman Connection and fraternity recruitment, everything is so high energy,” he said. “A lot of coordinating goes into it and then being able to multitask. I have to do a lot of that at Enterprise. Everything I learned in my classes, the advertising and marketing and presenting yourself and presenting your product, has helped me.”
Oliva said he hopes the internship leads to a long-term career with Enterprise.
“I’d like to continue working. Once my internship is done, working part time until I graduate and then, when I graduate, coming on full time,” he said.
He encourages other Northwestern State students to pursue internship opportunities while they are still in college.
“Be open-minded, take a chance and just focus on what’s important to you,” Oliva said.
NSU/I-Bowl Kickoff Luncheon set for Aug. 20 in Shreveport
Reservations are open now for the annual Northwestern State/Independence Bowl Kickoff Luncheon, sponsored by John and Lynne Manno, set for Thursday, Aug. 20 in Shreveport.
The longtime event, which will honor the 50th anniversary of Shreveport’s bowl game, will take place inside Superior’s Steakhouse, located at 855 Pierremont Avenue in Shreveport. The luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m., one week ahead of Northwestern’s Aug. 27 season opener against Louisiana Christian in Natchitoches.
“As the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl celebrates its golden anniversary, Northwestern State remains both proud and appreciative of its relationship with one of the country’s oldest bowl games,” Northwestern State Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian said. “For more than three decades, the annual kickoff luncheon has signaled not only the opening of football season but also the partnership between Northwestern and the Independence Bowl. This event brings the excitement of football season to the forefront for our fans and alumni in Shreveport.”
Cost for the all-inclusive lunch is $25 and includes salad, a plated meal and dessert. Reservations are being accepted by contacting the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl office at 318-221-0721. Attendees are asked to bring cash or check to the event to cover the cost.
The luncheon features Bostian, third-year Demon head coach Blaine McCorkle and members of the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl staff. Bostian and McCorkle will preview the 2026 season while bowl staffers will provide updates on the 50th annual Independence Bowl, which is scheduled for Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in Shreveport’s Independence Stadium.
NSU’s Prather Coliseum was once again transformed into the finest musical venue and restaurant in Louisiana for the 2026 Folk Life Festival on Saturday, July 18. Thousands of festivalgoers packed NSU’s Prather Coliseum to be entertained by an eclectic variety of musical acts and presenters from all over Louisiana and surrounding states. In addition to the music, over 70 vendors from Louisiana and surrounding states sold books and crafts as well as educating festival goers on various Louisiana and Native American folk ways. Festivalgoers who ventured outside could see a see a blacksmithing demonstration and sample some superb gumbo from the festival’s signature gumbo competition.
Renowned Grammy winner and blues guitarist Wayne “Blue” Burns was named as the honorary Chair of the 2026 Folklife Festival. He was joined onstage by the 2026 inductees into the Louisiana Folklife Center Hall of Master Folk Artists. These accomplished and eclectic folk artists were Dustin “Dusty” Fuqua and Becky Thomas-Meziere. There was also a memorial presentation for renowned Zydeco artist Joseph Grady Citizen who passed away this year at age 89.
The Louisiana Fiddle Championship, held in conjunction with the Folk Life Festival, was hotly contested with fiddlers from throughout the state vying for this year’s honors. Lauren Hodges, of Longview in Franklin Parish, earned top honors as the 2026 Louisiana Fiddle Champion.
Gospel/Inspirational group The Amazing Rhythm Disciples closed out the Folklife Festival, making a joyful noise indeed with their unique blend of Gospel, Rock and Roll, Country, Rhythm and Blues and other styles. They were joined on stage by 2018 Louisiana State Fiddle Champion Clancey Stewart.
The festival is a long-standing favorite as evidenced by its loyal following. Many of the attendees and performers have been coming for years. The loyal following and the festival’s new friends kept the dance floor moving and the concerts well attended.
The Folklife Festival, now in its 46th year, is designed to showcase, preserve and perpetuate Louisiana’s unique culture. This year’s theme was “America the Beautiful”. For a modest admission fee, the NSU Folk Life Festival features a solid day of superb music, crafts, food and above all, fun.
Mitch the Magician, of MLR Magic, thrilled audiences across Natchitoches recently, pulling volunteers from the crowd to build a different show at every stop. Each performance became its own story, shaped by whoever was brave enough to join in. The shows were part of the Natchitoches Parish Library’s (NPL) Summer Reading Program (SRP).
The NPL wraps up its 2026 SRP with one final round of guest performances, and the community is invited to help send it off in style. Professor Universe brings a science-meets-showmanship act for any age group to four performances on July 22 and 23, with no registration required. Families can choose whichever date and location works best:
“We hope all our summer readers come to this exciting final SRP performance,” said Alan Niette, NPL Deputy Director. “While you’re here, be sure to log your reading hours and collect any rewards you’ve earned. And, for those that have yet to sign up, there’s still time to register and read your 12 completion hours before the end of the month!”
Beyond the final SRP show, the library has several more free events on the calendar this month, all requiring registration. Kid Gamers Club meets at the Main Branch on Saturday, July 25, from 2-3:30 PM, with Nintendo Wii U multiplayer games on the big screen and board games on hand. Attendees are also invited to bring their own systems or games to share. Children can make a fossil necklace at the NEB on Monday, July 27, at 4 PM. Harvest of the Month returns in partnership with the LSU AgCenter Extension Office on Tuesday, July 28 at 6 PM at Main, and teens and adults can drop into Magic: The Gathering Club that same evening, from 6-8 PM at Main.
Adults have two more chances to join in the fun this month. Space is running out to register for Paint Night with Brittany at Main on Tuesday, July 21, at 6 PM, with only five seats left. Healthy Eating with Erin Stockton of the LSU AgCenter comes to the NEB on Thursday, July 30, at 10:30 AM to share tips on nutrition while demonstrating a recipe for attendees.
Registration is required for all events except the Professor Universe shows. Call 318-357-3280 for Main Branch events or 318-476-3280 for NEB events, and watch for NPL’s full August lineup soon at thismonth.natlib.org.
With summer temperatures climbing and household expenses continuing to rise, the Natchitoches Parish Journal is bringing back a contest designed to provide some direct relief to local residents.
The Journal’s “Pay My Utility Bill” contest will pay the current monthly utility bill of selected Natchitoches Parish residents.
Electricity costs remain a growing concern for households across the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that electricity prices increased 4% during the 12 months ending in June. Food, housing, insurance and other routine expenses have also continued to place pressure on family budgets.
Louisiana generally has lower electricity rates than many other states, but its residents often use more electricity because of the state’s long, hot and humid summers. The U.S. Energy Information Administration previously estimated that Louisiana residential customers paid an average of about $142 per month for electricity, roughly equal to the national average despite the state’s lower per-kilowatt-hour rates.
Those averages offer little comfort when an individual household receives a summer bill that is substantially higher.
Air-conditioning systems run longer as temperatures rise, and older homes, aging equipment and insufficient insulation can increase electricity consumption. For many families, a high utility bill arrives alongside grocery costs, housing payments, vehicle expenses and other monthly obligations.
The Journal created the contest to give several local households a little breathing room.
To enter, contestants must submit their full name, working cellphone number, email address and the exact current amount due on their utility bill.
The service address must be located in Natchitoches Parish, and the contestant’s name must appear on the bill. Entrants should retain the original bill or a copy because the winning contestant will be required to provide proof of the amount submitted.
Only the current amount due will be considered. Multiple entries will not be accepted.
Winners must consent to having their name and photograph published by the Journal. The Journal will not sell information submitted through the contest.
Residents may review the complete rules and enter the “Pay My Utility Bill” contest at:
When nearly everything costs more, one paid utility bill could make a meaningful difference. The Natchitoches Parish Journal hopes the contest will provide that relief to some of its readers this summer.
Phonetic: /AHB-duh-rut/
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition
Obdurate is a formal word that means “resistant to persuasion.” It is usually used to describe someone who is not willing to change their methods or opinions, or something that is not easily altered.
Though obdurate problems loom, the organization under its new leadership is poised to make real and effective changes.
Sue Mathis Shaw
Service: Friday at 11:30 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Natchitoches Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.
Eighteen K-12 teachers from 13 school systems across Louisiana got to enjoy some Natchitoches hospitality at a Social Studies workshop conducted by Louisiana Public Broadcasting and hosted at Natchitoches’ Fort St, Jean Baptiste State Historic Site Thursday, July 16. The Natchitoches Parish school system was ably represented by Fairview Alpha’s Trisha Weaver.
The theme of the workshop was “Louisiana’s Hidden History-Revolutionary Louisiana” and explored our state’s little known contributions to the Revolutionary War. Participating social studies teachers expanded their professional knowledge and received packets they can incorporate into their lesson plans.
The visiting teachers also were given tours of both Fort St. Baptiste and the Los Ades Historic sites led by the park’s interpretive ranger staff.
A new Louisiana law that took effect July 1 is creating additional opportunities for retired educators to return to the classroom, and Natchitoches Parish School Board Director of Human Resources Ramona A. Wynder hopes local retirees will consider answering the call.
Act 344 of the 2026 Regular Legislative Session replaces previous return-to-work laws for members of the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana (TRSL), simplifying the rules and expanding reemployment options for retirees.
Wynder said many retired educators have already reached out with questions, and some have already returned to work in Natchitoches Parish.
According to TRSL, the new law provides several return-to-work pathways depending on a retiree’s circumstances. Depending on the option selected, retirees may be able to return to work without impacting their retirement benefits or may choose to suspend benefits and earn additional retirement credit.
Retirees who returned under previous rules were often subject to earnings limitations that could affect their retirement benefits. Under Act 344, retirees now have several options based on factors including retirement date, age, employment in certified critical shortage positions, earnings limits, or regaining active TRSL membership to earn a supplemental benefit.
Wynder said the district still has teaching vacancies and believes retired educators continue to have an important role to play in serving local students.
“For those retirees, they have proven their dedication to the students and families of this area, and there’s still a place for them in the classroom,” Wynder said.
She said Natchitoches Parish schools continue to have openings, particularly in English and Math.
Under Act 344, retirees must still satisfy a 12-month waiting period before returning to work unless otherwise provided under the law.
Among the options available under the new law are:
Wynder encourages retired educators interested in returning to the classroom or learning more about available positions in Natchitoches Parish to contact her directly.
For information about employment opportunities, contact Ramona A. Wynder, Director of Human Resources for the Natchitoches Parish School Board, at Ramona.Wynder@npsb.la.
The City of Natchitoches Community and Economic Development Department has installed a Blessing Box at the corner of Sixth Street and Trudeau.
According to the department, the purpose of the Blessing Box is simple: “Take what you need. Leave what you can.”
Community members are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, books or school supplies to help support neighbors in the community.
“Every small act of kindness makes a difference,” the department said.
The historic city of Natchitoches is thrilled to invite the media and members of the public to a landmark celebration as it officially kicks off the countdown to the historic 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights. The “Christmas in July” Press Conference & Centennial Exhibit Unveiling on Friday, July 24 at 10 am will celebrate a century of holiday magic in the heart of the Natchitoches Historic District. The event will be held at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum, located at 800 Front Street in the Landmark Historic District of Natchitoches.
The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is Louisiana’s longest-running community celebration and one of the nation’s oldest Christmas festivals. Visitors travel from across the country and around the world to attend the six-week festival each year.
10:00 AM – Press Conference & Centennial Kickoff
This opening segment will feature official details about the upcoming 100th Natchitoches Christmas Festival schedule, new additions to the festival, and the release of several centennial collectible items, including a bracelet, an ornament, and the Official Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights poster.
10:45 AM – Opening of the “Christmas 100” Exhibit
Guests will head to the second floor for the official opening of the “Christmas 100” exhibit, featuring exclusive exhibit tours and dedicated photo opportunities. The exhibit explores the history of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, beginning with the first event held in 1927 with just a simple string of lights along the downtown riverfront.
11:00 AM – Centennial Reception
The celebration concludes in the Museum Lobby, where attendees can enjoy refreshments, view historic photos, and enjoy festive holiday music.
The event is co-presented by organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Louisiana’s oldest city. They include the Cane River National Heritage Area, represented by Rebecca Blankenbaker; the Natchitoches Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, represented by Paige Alost; and the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association and Christmas Festival Planning Committee, represented by Sandra Dickens.
All media members, community members, and history enthusiasts are warmly invited to attend this kickoff and share in celebrating 100 years of holiday magic at the Natchitoches Christmas Festival. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP but it is not required.
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