Registration deadline approaching for Miss Cure on the Cane Pageant

Cure on the Cane-2018

The Third Annual Miss Cure on the Cane Pageant will be held Saturday, Sept. 15 at 10:30 a.m. at Westside Baptist Church Family Life Center. This registration deadline is Sept. 6. The entry fee is $55 for the first contestant and $30 for each additional sibling.

This is a “crown-all” event and no participant leaves empty handed. Proceeds go toward the Natchitoches Parish Relay for Life. For more information visit Cure on the Cane Pageant’s Facebook page.

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CLTCC Natchitoches Campus to Hold Fall Registration for Adults Seeking High School Equivalency Diploma

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Adults seeking their high school equivalency diploma can get help through the WorkReady U/Adult Education program at the Natchitoches Campus of Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC).

Registration is Tuesday-Friday, Aug. 14-17 beginning at 8 a.m. at the Natchitoches Campus. Parents wishing to enroll students ages 16 or 17 will need to get an age waiver from their local school board office. Enrollment will take approximately one hour.

Classes start Monday, Aug. 20. Day and night classes are available, and classes are FREE! The WorkReady U/Adult Education program also offers English as a Second Language and Citizenship classes.

Participants can get help with Math, Reading and Language, and prepare to take the High School Equivalency Test (HiSET). The HiSET is the new pathway for individuals who didn’t finish high school to earn a diploma and get on track for college or a career.
For more information, contact the Natchitoches Adult Education department at 318-357-3162, ext. 3223.

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Magnet blasts off into new school year at Open House

Magnet Open House-2018 (1)

There were a lot of new students exploring Magnet for the 2018-2019 Open House on Aug. 9. The school’s new theme is Outer Space and teachers wore shirts that said: “Magnet Teachers Are Out Of This World.”

The school increased its enrollment in the middle of the last school year, so it’s filling out its enrollment from 320 to almost 400 students. Principal Stephonie French said they’ll be able to offer students a lot this year, such as art and music classes. They’re also expanding their clubs. One example is the introduction of a 4-H Cloverbud Club for grades 1-3.

“We’re looking forward to challenging our students even further,” said French. “We had a great year last year and we grew and we’re excited to see what we can do this year.”

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Disturbance call leads to capture of Tennessee fugitive

Stacey Davenport

A disturbance call on Sunday evening, Aug. 12, led to the capture of a Tenneesee fugitive on felony warrants according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

NPSO Patrol Division deputies responded to a reported disturbance at 11 pm in the 200 block of Old Bethel Road west of Natchitoches. The caller reported that a relative had been drinking and was acting belligerent.

Deputies arrived on scene and spoke with the individual involved in the disturbance identified as Stacey Davenport Jr., 28 of Natchitoches.

During a National Crime Information Center database inquiry check, deputies learned Davenport was wanted by the Sumner County Sheriffs Office since March of 2018 for Felony Filing of a Police Report, Criminal Damage to Property valued over $1000, and Probation Violation on original charges of Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Abuse and Possession of a Handgun while under the Influence.

NPSO Communications Operators confirmed the warrants with Tennesse authorities.

Davenport was arrested without incident, transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center as a Tennessee fugitive where he is awaiting extradition at a later date.

Deputy T. Pledger made the arrest assisted by Lt. M. Wilson.

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Community invited to meet the gators this evening

Lakview Gators

Meet the 2018 Lakeview Gators football team members, coaches and the Booster Club President, Secretary and Treasurer at Lakeview’s Meet the Gators event this evening, Aug, 14 at 6 pm in th Lakeview library If your child is playing football come out and support the team for this season.

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DA announces trial conviction in 2017 shooting case

DA-BJHLOGOWHT

District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington announced today the guilty verdict in the jury trial of Ervin Leanard Walker of illegal use of a weapon during a crime of violence.
Walker, 53 of Natchitoches, was convicted for a 2017 shooting incident in a parking lot of a business on Keyser Avenue.

10th Judicial District Court Judge Lala Sylvester presided over the trial. Sentencing is scheduled for November 14, 2018.

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City Bank supports Creole Heritage Center’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

City Bank_Creole Heritage

The Creole Heritage Center at NSU will celebrate its 20th Anniversary Sept. 13-15 at the Sylvan Friedman Student Union on the NSU campus. City Bank donated to this event. For more information call 318-357-6685 or email wynderl@nsula.edu. Pictured from left are Madison Henson, Shelley Townson, Markita Small, CHC Office Clerk, Loletta Wynder, Director of the NSU CHC and Rachel Stephens.

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Candidacy Announcement: Dorothy McGaskey, School Board District 3, #55

Dorothy McGaskey

I am Dorothy Mallard McGaskey, a candidate for School Board Member, District 3. I was formerly married to Elijah, “George” McGaskey. We have two children, Terrance McGaskey and wife Marissa, and LaKira McGaskey, formerly, Howard. I have one granddaughter, Kylie Howard, a first grade student who will be attending L.P. Vaughn Elementary this fall, and two step-grandchildren, Aaliyah Collins, a graduate of Natchitoches Central High School (NCHS) this past school year, and Jaylon Collins who is presently a sophomore at NCHS.

Employed for the State of Louisiana Support Enforcement Services for twenty-one (21) years as a Support Enforcement Specialist, I have retired since 2007. Prior to employment with Support Enforcement, I was employed with the Office of Family Security as an Eligibility Worker. I am currently a Commissioner in Charge at the 13th Voting Precinct. I began as a Commissioner in 2006 and currently serve in the capacity as supervisor of the Commissioners. My responsibilities include ensuring the voting process will run efficiently and effectively as required, and that all eligible voters are allowed to vote according to State law. I am a member of First Baptist Church, North Street, serving on various committees, and am a member of the choir-Golden Voices.

Having completed postsecondary education at Northwestern State University (NSU), I obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Social Work. While attending NSU, I pledged Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, a community conscious, service oriented, national organization whose objectives are education, voter registration, and services to the community. After graduation I joined the graduate chapter, Mu Omega Zeta, and became the first president; later served as an undergraduate advisor and presently serve in the capacity of 2nd Vice President and Scholarship Chairman in the Chapter. I am a past president of Amicae, the adult women support organization and an active member of the Z/Hope Project of the graduate chapter of the sorority. I am a member of the Natchitoches Parish Voters and Civic League and serve as the Education Committee chairman. The Homeless Coalition, a non-profit organization that assists the Homeless population where our focus is to provide temporary shelter and sponsor the Share a Meal Program for the citizens of Natchitoches is an integral part of my community service. I also work with the Stop the Violence Program, one that’s dedicated to ensuring support for a safe environment in our community.

My goal as a School Board, District 3, member is to be a dedicated voice for the children who are our future. I will represent them to the best of my ability and always vote in a manner which will be in the best interest of children and the educational community. I ask the parents and community to please remember that our school district will always need continuous support and involvement. Children are our most precious jewels and they have to be molded to become responsible adults. Education is the main pathway for their future. I am compassionate about my future role in serving as part of the Natchitoches Parish School Board representing District 3. With your help by Voting #55 I look forward to being a part of the decision-making process to assist in determining that children receive an excellent education.
Contact: Dorothy McGaskey Phone: (318) 527-1968

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Job Opening at Lott Oil: Accounting Clerk

Lott Oil Job Opening

 

Lott Oil is seeking to fill a Full-Time Accounting Clerk position.

PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The Accounting Clerk is responsible for multiple job responsibilities. The job includes accounts payable duties, accounts receivable duties and reconciling multiple retail accounts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Be able to process invoices by coding and keying them into the database
Be able to reconcile credit card payments
Be able to record customer payments

OTHER DUTIES:

Perform other duties as assigned or requested by management personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Preferred 5-10 years experience in accounting field
Detail oriented
Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines
Ability to multitask and switch focus quickly when needed
Good verbal and written communication skills
Problem solving skills
Excel and internet proficient

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

High school diploma or GED is required.
College diploma is preferred

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Occasional overtime work required throughout each week depending on demand.

SAFETY HAZARDS OF THE JOB:

Minimal hazards based on safe working conditions.

This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by supervisors or managers to perform other instructions and duties. You will be evaluated in part based upon your performance of the tasks listed in this job description. Management has the right to revise this job description t any time. The job description is not a contract for employment, and either you or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason.

Please send inquiries and resumes to the following email address: info@lottoil.com

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First day of Head Start classes delayed until Monday, August 20

Head Start Classes Delayed

Due to circumstances beyond the control of the Natchitoches Parish Government and Office of Community Services, Head Start will not begin class as planned on Aug. 15. The start date will be Monday, Aug. 20 for all centers: Natchez, Breda, MLK, NSU, Campti, and Mansfield. We apologize for any inconvenience the delayed start date may cause. For any questions, please call your child’s teacher or the Head Start office at 318-357-2213.

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The Road to Victory Starts Here! The Demons Hold Their First Scrimmage

NSU Scrimmage 08-2018 (2)

Kevin’s Gallery

The NSU Football Team has been focused on one thing, victory, since reporting for camp. This Saturday, Aug. 11th, the team’s newfound intensity was on full display as they held their first scrimmage with full pads. The Demons came out 107 men strong to learn, prepare and get better under first year Coach Laird and his staff. The offense and defense practiced various game scenarios as the players worked on their skills and continued to grow together into one team and family. It is indeed the dawn of a new day for Demon Football!

NSU’s first game will be against Texas A&M at the legendary Kyle Field on August 30th. Their first home game will be against Grambling State University on the 8th of September. The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes to extend its best wishes to the Demons for victory as they embark on the upcoming season. Fork ’em Demons!

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Faculty and staff at NSU E-Lab get energized for new school year

ELAB_Faculty and Staff

The Faculty and Staff at NSU Elementary Lab School started the school year off with a Lock-In on Aug. 6. Principal Caron Coleman, along with the Leadership Team of E-Lab, planned a night full of learning, team building, games, thinking skills, enthusiasm, food, and fun. The theme of the Lock-In was “The Energy Bus,” adapted from the motivational book, “The Energy Bus,” by Jon Gordon. Coleman presented the 10 rules of riding The Energy Bus and encouraged the faculty and staff to use positive energy to create positive results at E-Lab this year.

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Man from Natchitoches arrested in Florida on second degree murder charges

Matthew Solice

Orange County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call regarding an Attempted Homicide (Domestic) July 31 at 5:24 p.m. The suspect Matthew Solice, 33 of Natchitoches, called 911 to report he had just killed the victim, identified as 26-year-old Amy Solice, by strangulation after a verbal altercation. When units arrived on scene Matthew surrendered himself without incident and was arrested.

Matthew advised officers that he and his wife had moved to Orlando a year ago where he got a job at Disney. The couple split up in July, but Amy would watch their young child while Matthew was at work. The incident on July 31 began when Matthew confronted Amy about an affair she was having.

The woman was unconscious and deputies performed life-saving measures on the woman until relieved by Orange County Fire Rescue. The victim was transported to Celebration Hospital in critical condition and was later transported to ORMC where she succumbed to her injuries Aug. 2.

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2018 Demon Fall DigFest – The Tradition Continues

Didfest - 2018 (9)

 

Kevin’s Gallery

The Northwestern State University Volleyball team held its annual Fall DigFest Saturday August 11th at the Point Place Marina. The Fall DigFest, along with one held in the spring, are fundraisers for the NSU Volleyball team and a fun annual tradition for the community.

The Marina was filled to capacity as ten teams from around the area battled throughout the day on a sand court under a crystal clear blue sky. The DigFest is held to finance projects and extras for the team not covered by their budget, such as new equipment for practicing and renovating the locker room. The funds also allow the team a few nice extras while on the road. This year’s Fall DigFest is expected to raise $1,500.00 to assist Demon Volleyball.

Northwestern State University’s Volleyball team boasts 18 players coming to NSU from Louisiana, Texas and Oklahoma. The team has an average grade point average of 3.6 and a phenomenal 100% graduation rate. Team member Madeline Drake played on the United States team at the recent FISU games held in Brazil.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal is donating the day’s photography. Copy protection is off and anyone may download any they wish. If you do download a photo, please consider a donation to NSU Volleyball.

The Demons first home game will be on the 28th of August vs. Jackson State University. Their first conference game will be on the 20th of September against Incarnate Word University. The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes this group of superb scholar-athletes every success in their upcoming season. Fork ’em Demons!

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Join Ivan’s Mobile Rewards and WIN

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Have you heard the word? Join the Mobile Rewards Program for Ivan Smith Furniture of Natchitoches for your chance to win up to $500 instantly off your next purchase.

Ivan Smith has a team of salesmen with a combined 50 plus years of experience who will help you pick out what’s right for you from appliances, to living room sets, to dining room tables. Just sign up today!

To sign up with Robbie Tarpley text 53Ivan to 40213

To sign up with Rickey Hatchet text 55Ivan to 40213

To sign up with Harry McKay text 2Ivan to 40213

Not an instant winner? No problem! Mobile Reward subscribers are entered into monthly drawings for $200 gift cards. Every sign up also gets a coupon for 10% off the purchase of an accessory item (no expiration date).

Subscribers also receive exclusive offers:

Cash and Christmas Sales
Notifications on Company-wide Savings
Natchitoches Store Specials like Annual Warehouse Sales
Invitations to VIP Events

But don’t worry, it’s free to sign up and you can opt out at any time. Ivan Smith will never send more than two texts to your phone each month.

“This is the perfect program for home owners that know what they want to buy, but want to wait for the right time to buy it,” said Dane Terrell.

Ivan Smith Furniture – Natchitoches
Home town faces with big store buying power.
936 Keyser Avenue
(318) 352-5889

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Natchitoches’ FUMC is Ready for School!

Bless Backpacks FUMC - 2018 (2)

It was back to school time at Natchitoches’ First United Methodist Church as the congregation hosted two events to kick off the upcoming school year Sunday, August 12th. Each of the day’s three services featured the annual tradition of the “Blessing of the Backpacks” in which students of all ages brought their backpacks and devices to the front of the church. Each student was presented with a tag for their backpack, after which the congregation prayed for a safe and successful school year.

The day’s events concluded with a Back to School Bash in the Family Life Center. This event featured an inflatable castle, face painting, snacks and games. Over 100 happy children and their families enjoyed an evening of family fun and fellowship.

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Full Pads and Full Speed: Chiefs Get Ready

By Kevin Shannahan

NCHS Scrimmage-2018 (3)

Kevin’s Gallery

The NCHS Football Team has been relentlessly focused on victory as new coach Byron Keller embarks on his first year at the helm of Natchitoches Central High School’s football program. Coach Keller comes to NCHS after three seasons as head coach at Lakeview High School. Prior to coaching the Gators, Keller was head coach at St. James at Vacherie, where he was also a player as a student.

Coach Keller’s talented staff includes some gridiron legends. Assistant Coach Vernon Robinson is an alumni of the former Central High School in Natchitoches. He was a standout player there and at Grambling State University. He went on from the Grambling Tigers to play 5 seasons with the NFL’s 49’ers and Dolphins as well as the Canadian Football League where he set several records. He is joined by former NSU football coach Sam Goodwin.

This Thursday, Aug. 9, marked their first practice with full pads. The Chiefs came out 65 men strong to learn, prepare and improve under the Argus Eyed Coach Keller and his equally sharp-eyed staff. The offense and defense worked on various game scenarios as the players honed their skills and continued to meld together into one team and one family.

The Chiefs will play Many High School at the Jamboree on Aug. 24. Their home opener will be against North DeSoto Aug. 31 at NSU’s Turpin stadium. The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes to extend its best wishes to the Chiefs for victory as they embark on the upcoming season. Go Chiefs!

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OMC welcomes new dental director

Cliff Davis

Outpatient Medical Center would like to welcome aboard its new Dental Director, Dr. Cliff Davis. Dr. Davis left high school for university life at the young age of 16, earning a BS in biology from the University of California, Riverside in1985. He was awarded his DDS degree from UCLA, which included an extra year of special study at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Since completing his General Practice Residency at the Veterans Afairs Hospital in New Orleans in 1999. Dr. Davis has served Louisiana’s underserved communities whether in private practice or in Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Dr. Davis has previously served as dental director at FQHCs in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, and brings considerable vision and experience to Outpatient Medical Center, Inc. Dr. Davis enjoys spending time his family. His hobbies include building cars and motorcycles, and trying to play guitar.

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Legal Notice – James Rex “Kip” Fair, Jr.

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If you were represented by attorney James Rex “Kip” Fair, Jr. within the past 5 years, call 318-352-6455 by August 31, 2018 to make arrangements to obtain your file, if you have not already done so.

Files will be returned to clients upon a showing of proper identification. Unclaimed files will be destroyed after August 31, 2018.

Attorney at Law
Post Office Box 60
Natchitoches, LA 71458-0060
Facsimile: 318-352-4401
E-mail: sw35585@icloud.com

Paid Legal Notice

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