The Natchitoches Knights of Columbus presented a $3,500 check to the Natchitoches Association of Retarded Citizens as part of their Sanctity of Human Life efforts. Of that amount, $2,600 was collected during their annual Tootsie Roll Drive in October for the mentally challenged. Pictured from left are KC members Mike Menou, Dewey Paige, NARC administrator Laura Thomas, Red Laparouse and Henry Maggio.

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Ernie “Lou” Metoyer
September 16, 1935 – January 26, 2018
Visitation: Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 9-10:30 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Natchitoches
Service: Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 11 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
Interment: St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Cloutierville

SURROUNDING AREAS:

The Natchitoches City Council passed a proclamation at its meeting Jan. 9 declaring the month of January, 2018 as Arbor Month in the City.

Mayor Lee Posey helped put some dirt around trees being planted in City Park Jan. 26. These trees are just the beginning of some landscaping that will be done in the park.

Arbor Day was first observed in 1872 when J. Sterling Morton proposed a tree-planting day to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture and on April 10 of that year, sponsors estimated that over 1 million trees were planted on the first Arbor Day. Since then, this day has become an annual observance throughout the nation and the world, celebrating the role of trees in our lives and promoting tree planting, care and conservation.

Trees can lower heating and cooling costs, clean the air and provide habitat for wildlife. They are a renewable resource, which is used to make paper, building materials for construction, fuel for fires, and countless other wood products.

The City understands more than ever, the importance of trees. It is committed to an effective ongoing program that provides direction, technical assistance, public attention and recognition for ongoing efforts to the value of trees in the community.

Kevin’s Gallery

Downtown Natchitoches played host to a tradition observed by Scots the world over for more than 200 years as the Natchitoches Society of Mislocated Scots and Assorted Celtic Friends gathered to celebrate Burns Night. The gatherings honor Robert Burns, Poet Laureate of Scotland, born on Jan. 25, 1759 by celebrating his life, literature and Scottish culture.

More than 35 people from Natchitoches and Alexandria gathered at this year’s dinner. Alexandria bagpiper Rudy Lenaerts played an impromptu bagpipe concert for the crowd outside. He later piped with Alan McMurty and Sandy McNeely as they presented the Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish and a centerpiece of every Burns night, by marching through the crowd carrying it while guarded by a sword wielding Truman Maynard. Society head Sandy McNeely started the festivities with a recital of “Address to a Haggis.” After dinner, there was a traditional series of toasts and a poetry reading by former Louisiana Poet Laureate, Dr. Julie Kane. The evening concluded with a silent auction of various items related to Scottish culture.

The Louisiana Travel Association (LTA) introduced Rebecca Blankenbaker as the winner of the 2018 Rising Star award during its Annual Membership Meeting Jan. 23 in Lafayette.

The Rising Star award is presented to an up-and-coming young professional in the tourism industry who has demonstrated qualities of leadership, entrepreneurship and creativity.

“I consider myself lucky to have the opportunity to work in an industry that I love, and I am honored to be recognized by the Louisiana Travel Association with the 2018 Rising Star award,” said Rebecca Blankenbaker, Director of Communications of the Cane River National Heritage Area.

“Partnerships are key to any success in the tourism world, and I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful “family” of colleagues throughout the region who share my passion for heritage tourism. It’s best to simply express my appreciation with a sincere and profound thank you,” continued Blankenbaker.

In addition, Blankenbaker celebrated her graduation from the Louisiana Tourism Leadership Academy (LTLA) at the association’s 2018 Annual Membership Meeting in Lafayette.

The 18 members of the LTLA class spent all of 2017 developing their leadership skills while learning from seasoned professionals from throughout the tourism industry. The goal of the program is to equip each class member with knowledge and skills that will enrich their tourism-related organizations, therefore strengthening the state-wide tourism industry.

“I am grateful to have the opportunity to learn so much from established leaders in the tourism industry, and I look forward to continuing to showcase Natchitoches and the Cane River National Heritage Area to the rest of the world,” remarked Blankenbaker.

The graduating class of LTLA also includes: Marica Brewster, with Von Mack Agency; Alvon Brumfield, with Louisiana Renaissance Festival; Kimberly Caldarera, with L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles; Megan Gavlick, with L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles; Katherine Johnson, with Natchitoches CVB; Zondra Jones, with St. Tammany Parish Tourist Commission; Leslie Landeche, with Mardi Gras World; Barry Landry, with Louisiana Office of Tourism; Shanna Landry, with Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana CVB; Kaylie Leblanc, with Lafayette CVC; Angie Manning, with Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana CVB; Joshua McNemar, with Office of the Lt. Governor; Jessica Ragusa, with Office of the Lt. Governor; Madeline Sanchez, with Louisiana Travel Association; Timika Spurlock, with Sheraton New Orleans; Stella Thorton, with Louisiana Tax Free Shopping; and Kellie Walters, with Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou.

“LTLA has been a tremendous opportunity for those interested in learning more about Louisiana’s tourism industry, and we are proud of the 2017 graduating class,” said Jill Kidder, LTA President and CEO. “It is our hope that these professionals will utilize their new-found knowledge and experience to better themselves, their organizations and their state.”

Sherri Outlaw joins the BOM family in the Loan Administration Department. Sherri is originally from Illinois where she was born and raised until moving to Natchitoches in 1978. Sherri is married to Bobby Outlaw Jr. and they have been blessed with two children and three grandchildren.

Sherri came to the bank with 19 years of banking experience. Sherri enjoys watching her favorite teams play football, going mud riding and especially, most of all, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Sherri attends Red River Cowboy Church.

Sherri stated, “I haver never worked where from my very first day the people here have been very friendly and inviting. They make you feel like you have been here for years already. I am beyond blessed to be a part of the BOM family.”

BOM
860 Washington St.
Natchitoches, La 71457
http://www.bofm.com

The first official day of practice for the 2018 Northwestern State baseball team had the feel of a Friday night game.

Highlighted by a well-pitched, seven-inning scrimmage, the Demons took the field as a unit for the first time Friday afternoon, leaving second-year head coach Bobby Barbier with plenty of positive takeaways.

“It’s good to get back out here,” Barbier said. “We talk about working every day, but the first day of practice does mean something. It’s exciting. We came out with good energy. We played really good defense in the scrimmage, and that’s exciting to me. It’s good to see the product we worked for to this point.”

Northwestern State pitchers were stellar during the scrimmage allowing just one run that came on a deflected RBI single.

The scrimmage followed a typical day of practice for the Demons, who open the regular season in three weeks against Binghamton. First pitch for the Feb. 16 season opener is set for 6:30 p.m.

Barbier praise his team’s dedication across the holiday break as Friday marked the first time since wrapping up the Rhodes Properties Fall World Series in early November the team took the field together.

“We don’t get much time to get them ready so you have to rely on those guys, especially pitchers, doing things on their own,” Barbier said. “It seems like they did a good job. Guys came back in good shape. It was a good first day.”

Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force Agents and Natchitoches Parish Sheiff’s Office Corrections Center Deputies arrested two suspects for bringing contraband into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center grounds.

According to a Task Force Official, Kenwick Jewitt (B/M 38) and Betty Kelly (B/F 36) were taken into custody Jan. 23 at the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center by NPDC Deputies who noticed suspected marijuana in plain view in their vehicle. Upon searching the driver, Kenwick Jewitt, NPDC deputies located .4 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 11 suspected Morphine pills and 1 suspected crack cocaine rock on his person.

The Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force were called to assist in the investigation and obtained a search warrant for the vehicle. The search of the vehicle yielded 3 grams of suspected marijuana, 1 suspected ecstasy pill and a .38 caliber revolver handgun, which was confirmed stolen from a local business.

NMJDTF agents also conducted 2 search warrants in connection with this investigation at the residence of suspect Betty Kelly at 500 North St. Apt. E-3 and the residence of Kenwick Jewitt at 319 Carver St. both in the city limits of Natchitoches. As a result agents located approximately 1.2 ounces of suspected methamphetamine at 500 North St. Apt. E-3. No evidence was located 319 Carver St.

Suspect Betty Kelly was an employee of Aramark Food Service Corporation which is contracted to provide food services for the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center.

Both suspects were placed in NPDC and charged with the following:

Kenwick Jewitt B/M 28

1 count R.S. 40:966E simple possession of marijuana
2 counts R.S. 40:966C Possession of schedule I drugs
2 counts R.S. 40:967 Possession of Schedule II drugs
1 count R.S. 40:982 Second or subsequent offenses
1 count R.S. 14:95E Possession of a firearm in the presence of CDS
1 count R.S. 14:95.1 Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
1 count R.S. 14:69.1 Possession of a stolen firearm
1 count R.S. 14:402 Introduction of contraband into a penal facility

Betty Kelly B/F 36

1 count R.S. 14:402 Principal to introduction of contraband into a penal facility.

The Natchitoches Parish Detention Center is a corrections facility and all vehicles and persons that enter the facility are subject to search at anytime. This safety measure is crucial in order to provide a safe environment for both employees and inmates at the facility. It is a felony to bring weapons, narcotics or any other contraband on to the grounds of NPDC.

The Natchitoches Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force would like to thank the Citizens of Natchitoches for their support. Many times an investigation begins with a simple phone call or tip from a concerned citizen. For this reason the Task Force encourages all citizens to report any crimes in their neighborhoods anonymously by calling 318-357-2248, The Natchitoches Police Department, or the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Get in the Mardi Gras spirit at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum Saturday, Feb. 3 at 2 pm. Children accompanied by an adult are invited to make festive Mardi Gras masks to celebrate the holiday and receive their first throw of the season.
Admission is free and open to children ages 6 and up. For more information call (318) 357-2492.

The Louisiana Travel Promotion Association (LTPA), which voted Jan. 23 to change its name to the Louisiana Travel Association (LTA), introduced Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria as the winner of the Accommodation of the Year/Full-Service Lodging during its Annual Membership Meeting Jan. 23 in Lafayette.

This year, LTA presented 17 “Louey Awards” to honor and showcase individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the Louisiana tourism industry.

“We are excited to be a winner of the Accommodation of the Year in full service Lodging,” said Jay Sharplin, Owner of the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria. “It is confirmation of the hard work our team has put in this past year.”

In 2017, Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria was awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence, named Best Interior Design of a Business and maintained an 8.3 overall score on AAA, based on exceptional reviews from guests.

With 13,000 sq. feet of meeting space and attached to the Alexandria Riverfront Center, the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria has hosted multiple citywide conferences. Guests can enjoy delicious meals at our full-service restaurant and lounge, THE LEVEE. The revitalized downtown entertainment district of Alexandria is within a few steps of the front door.

Pictured above from left are Lesa Mendoza, Christy Brunson, Maranda Evans, Chris Sharplin, Jay Sharplin, Lauryn Sharplin, Chelsey Sharplin, Keri Fidelak, and Adam Porche.

For bookings and reservations please call 318.541.8333 or email csharplin@sharpcohotels.com.

7th Grade Principal’s list:
Hailey Poydras, Ja’Torri Phillips, Jennifer Williams, Sammya Rachal, Trinity Browder

7th Grade A Honor Roll:
Colby Creamer, Jerrion Jones, Sa’Niyah Marshall

7th Grade B Honor Roll:
Donavon Carries, Evan Baker, Shiann Harris, Dillon Pikes, Kaelin Bruce, Rebecca Gallien, John Desoto, Serenity Bush, Demarcus Millage, Mar’Shae Grant, Taron Lofton, Cameron Lewis

8th Grade Principal’s list:
Meagan Corley, Zoie Britt

8th Grade A Honor Roll:
Allison Anderson, Elizabeth Poydras, Kandice Palm, Kandice Palm

8th Grade B Honor Roll:
Cartina Reliford, Aky’a Chatman, Dominick Rachal, Jamichael Burgess

Lakeview High 4th Quarter

9th Grade Principal’s list:
Alexia Adams, Shakayla Browder, Brenton Cherry, James Earp, Carleigh Lofton, Jo Porter, Averianna Slaughter, Jeremy Sowell, Larry Vaughn

9th Grade A Honor Roll:
Kallie Ayres, Jeffery Custis, Zachery Gorham, Amber Hembree, U’Donis Jones, Simon Messengmba, Kinley Nelson, Ingerlisha Nicholas, Zenobia Poydras, Ethan Smith, Jason Smith, Tierra Stacks

9th Grade B Honor Roll:
Dae’Breyuona Bell, Layla Below, Makayla Braswell, William Breshers, Destinee Britt, Taylor Coutee, Aalondra Garner, Gabriel Johnson, Derek Kirts, Kadarius Law, Mary Lebrun, Olivia Litton, Joshua Mattox, Braylon Reliford, Tapiwa Rubunya, Derrick Rock, Darian Sessions, Shaliya Smith, Darren Vaughn, Cole Yelverton

10th Grade Principal’s list:
Joshua Graham, Salem Johnson, Hunter Thomas

10th Grade A Honor Roll:
Elizabeth Anderson, Julie Baldwin, Jaquan Bobb, William Brew, Diamond Brown, Kadon Cook, Mekall cook, Karmen Jarriett, Gracie Niette, Mackenzie Phillips, Anna Smith, Landon Vaughn, Nicholas Wiggins, Ariyama Williams, Daron Williams

10th Grade B Honor Roll:
Ashley Allen, Takia Ardison, Ka’Brian Bonier, Makayla Cook, Emily Corley, Dacoda Coutee, Da’Tron Davis, Zackari Favela, Chayton Friday, A’shanti Garner, Lisa Gooden, Ke’shawn Jefferson, Jodie Kerry, Alexis Kinard, Matthew Moberly, Danielle Morrison, Thomas Norman, Shermarcus Page, Se’annia Pattain, Raven Speir, Trinisha Sykes, Jakerian Washington, Timothy Washington, Jasmine Williams, Tyler Willimas, Noah Wilson

11th Grade Principal’s list:
Jada Aldredge, Latia Beavers, Taylor Coleman

11th Grade A Honor Roll:
Mekaila Braxton, Ja’Marrion Bush, Destini Carter, Madison Hale, Dillon Longino, Shaa’Vareyah Page, Brittany Sullivan, Ke’Aira Thomas, Jaylan Triplet-Bell

11th Grade B Honor Roll:
Jalen Benn, Joey Blackmon, Ashley Blake, Joseph Gallien, Rebecca Guy, Gage Harper, Breanna Harrison, Ladashya Hayes, J’Eishia Hill, Frederick Horton, Martina Jarnigan, Logan Johnson, Zarious Lewis, Zy-Keious Manuel, A’Keria Payton, Shaquera Reliford, Deanna Rowell, Makayla Sessions, Christopher Small, Larry Thompson, Tiffany Valure, Matthew Vaughn, Jada Williams, Ashley Womack

12th Grade Principal’s list:
Robert Barthelemy, Alyssa Breaud, Quintarious Coleman, Trent Collier, Diavione Frazier, Layton Friday, Mason Harper, Katherine Hicks, Devin Irvin, Wesley Lindamood, Jesse Rachal, Tony Scott, Alexis Smith, Tyler Sullivan, Dontavious Waldrup, Nasser Shuaibi

12th Grade A Honor Roll:
Alanna Anderson, Michael Banks, Serenity Beavers, Julee Daniels, Kayla Denham, O’Darious Mitchell, Norman Moreland, Alayshia Moss, Dalton Riddle, Brandon Roberts, Le’Andre Ruffin, Diamond Smith, Daviion Telsee, Kamry Toms, Everett Waldrup, Savannah Walter, Skylar Williams, Ariel Wilson, Jalen Winslow, Ladarrion Winslow, Ladavion Winslow

12th Grade B Honor Roll:
Le’Quinta Bell, Jordan Bevill, Ronald Black, Camryn Brown, Brianna Bush, Elizabeth Dawson, Jacaria Holden, Za’Chary Jackson, Sloan Peacock, Douglas Reliford, Nikayla Rock, Terry Rowell, Skylar Rider, Dwaelon Shepherd, Do’Joureyan Smith, Cassidy Vascocu, Dillan Winslow, Demondre’ Young

Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches representative Heather Martin presented students at LP Vaughn with Terrific Kids certificates, recognizing them for their character development, self-esteem and perseverance.

NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Ernie “Lou” Metoyer
September 16, 1935 – January 26, 2018
Visitation: Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 9-10:30 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Natchitoches
Service: Tuesday, Jan. 30 at 11 am at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church
Interment: St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Cloutierville

Mary Maggio Thompson-Willis
September 15, 1919 – January 24, 2018
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10 am at The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Natchitoches
Interment: Catholic Cemetery

Oliver Johnson
January 18, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9-10 am at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home in Natchitoches
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 11 am at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church
Interment: St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery

Milton Lloyd Carter
January 27, 1952 – January 18, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9-11 am at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home in Natchitoches
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 11 am at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home
Interment: Robeline Cemetery

Ida Lee Newton
January 18, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 12-2 pm at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home in Natchitoches
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 2 pm at the Winnfield Memorial Funeral Home
Interment: St. Mark Methodist Church Cemetery in the New Town Community

Charlotte Ann Gonzaque Green
January 16, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 8:30-10 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10 am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church
Interment: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Cemetery

SURROUNDING AREAS:

Shirley Bonnette Lamartiniere
September 10, 1935 – January 24, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 8:30-11:00 am at the Kramer of Fifth Ward Funeral Home
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 12 pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Fifth Ward
Interment: Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery # 3

Sandra Smith
January 18, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9:30-11 am at the New Willow Baptist Church of Leesville
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 11 am at the New Willow Baptist Church
Interment: Leesville Memorial Cemetery

Bobby Booker
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 12 pm at Gethsemane Baptist Church in Mansfield
Interment: Gethsemane Baptist Church Cemetery

Betty Lucius Marsh
June 29, 1941 – January 24, 2018
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 10:30 am at Pisgah Baptist Church in Florien

Madison Paige Kelly
June 10, 1997 – January 22, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Jan. 27 from 11 am – 1 pm at Southern Funeral Home
Service: Saturday, Jan. 27 at 2 pm at Duchnese Cemetery

Lakeview Junior-Senior High School Band members Myla Porter, Jo Porter, and Zoie Britt performed in the L.M.E.A. District II Band Directors’ Association Honor Band concert at Tioga High School on Saturday, January 20, 2018. These students were selected to participate in this event by playing auditions last semester, which consisted of chromatic and major scales, two prepared pieces, and a sight reading selection. This year’s honor bands were selected from 22 participating schools in eight different parishes.

Sophomore Myla Porter placed third in the baritone section and freshman Jo Porter placed fourth in the trumpet section of the “Lafitte” Senior High Honor Band. This honor ensemble performed “Falcon Fanfare” by Brian Balmages, “In a Quiet Place” by Bill Calhoun, “Arabian Dances” by Roland Barrett, and “Twittering Machines” by Brian Balmages. The band’s conductor was Mr. Gregg Griffin, a graduate of NSU, who currently teaches in Erath, Louisiana.

Eighth grader Zoie Britt placed fourth in the flute section of the “St. Denis” Junior High Honor Band. Their performance selections were “Superheroes R Us” arranged by Michael Story, “Little Star” by Rob Grice, and “Armory” by Randall Standridge. The band’s conductor was Ms. Brittany Laza, a graduate of NSU, who currently teaches in Winnsboro, Texas.

Myla Porter, Jo Porter, and Zoie Britt are the students of Ms. Denise Roper, a graduate of LSU, who is in her fifth year as band director at Lakeview Junior-Senior High, and currently in her 27th year of teaching. Myla Porter has been a participant in the L.M.E.A. District Honor Band concert for three consecutive years, and her sister Jo Porter has been a participant for two consecutive years. Eighth grader Zoie Britt is a first time participant in the district honor band event. Both Myla and Zoie are in the Natchitoches Parish talented music program, and are students of Ms. Kelsey Wright.

You’ll want to save the date for two great events Northwestern State University is planning, which will both be held on March 23, 2018.

Flavor of Louisiana:

President Chris and First Lady Jennifer Maggio invite the public to the Flavor of Louisiana, a spring fundraiser and seafood extravaganza that celebrates our donors, supporters, alumni and students at NSU.

The Louisiana Seafood Board partnered with the NSU Foundation to showcase specialty dishes from some of the greatest restaurants across Louisiana.

Flavor of Louisiana will be held Friday, March 23 at 6 pm with music, cocktails, and specialty dishes at NSU’s Prather Coliseum. In conjunction with this event, the six colleges at NSU will host their very own fundraising booths that will assist in raising money for each of the colleges.

This event is hosted by the NSU Foundation and the Louisiana Seafood Board. All proceeds go to support the NSU faculty, staff, programs, and scholarships.

“This year we have added two new sponsorship levels, and have incorporated NSU’s six colleges to play a role in this event, said Rebekah Burleson, Assistant Director of Development. “With a large selection of great food, live entertainment, and good company, this is an event you do not want to miss.”

For more information contact the Office of University Advancement at (318) 357-4414.

Long Purple Line – Hall of Fame Luncheon:

NSU will honor six graduates by inducting them into the University’s alumni hall of distinction, the Long Purple Line at a luncheon Friday, March 23 at 12 pm in the Friedman Student Union Ballroom. Tickets are $20, which includes the lunch.

“We’ll continue to roll out the purple carpet treatment for our six inductees and guests this year, so we hope that you will be able to join in as we celebrate those six individuals receiving NSU’s highest honor,” said Van Erikson, Associate Director of Alumni Affairs.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives arrested a Natchitoches woman in connection with an identity theft investigation after she allegedly forged checks of a man she allowed to live with her for a couple of months in 2017, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

NPSO High Tech Crime Unit detectives received information from a Natchitoches man on Dec. 5. He noticed several unauthorized transactions on his checking account during the period of October-November 2017 in the amount of approximately $2,487.

During the course of an investigation, detectives learned the complainant was given permission by a female identified as Cynthia B. Williams, of Natchitoches, to live with her for a couple months during June-October of 2017.

As the investigation progressed, detectives reviewed financial documents and gathered forensic evidence identifying Williams as a person of interest in the investigation. They interviewed Williams at the NPSO Criminal Investigations Division on Jan. 24.

During the interview, Williams allegedly confessed to forging some of the checks and then driving to Alexandria to cash one of the forged checks in the amount of $400.

As a result of the investigation, detectives arrested:

Cynthia B. Williams, 60, of the 300 block of Hwy. 504 in Natchitoches, who was booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center and charged with 4-counts of Identity Theft, 3-counts of Illegal Transmission of Monetary Funds, and 1-count of Bank Fraud.

Williams remains in the Natchitoches Detention Center awaiting bond.

Detectives say the investigation is continuing with the possibility of additional charges.

Detective Amber Shirley investigated the case.

Jonathan Andino, a junior music student at Northwestern State University, recently won the Violin I category of the Music Teachers National Association South Central Division Competition, which was hosted by Northwestern State.

Andino, the Louisiana winner, competed against students Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas. He will compete at the MTNA National Conference in Lake Buena Vista, Florida March 17-21. Andino is from San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

Last year, Andino won the Rapides Concerto Competition after receiving first place in the NSU Concerto Competition. He is a student of Professor of Applied Violin and Viola Dr. Andrej Kurti.

Kurti has won numerous competitions as a performer and said winning a competition requires a good performance level, strong mental and physical endurance, an approach that is both realistic and optimistic and timing the performance peak for the day of the competition.

“It is generally hard to win any competition,” said Kurti. “When you add to the previously mentioned factors talent, discipline, dedication and consistency, the results and artistic achievements can be impressive. Jonathan possesses all attributes mentioned above, he is always open for the constructive criticism, and he never ever complained. It is a joy being his mentor, especially when witnessing rapid and consistent progress and improvement.”

Andino performed “Adagio” from Bach “Sonata No. 1 in G Minor” Sibelius’ “Violin Concerto in D Minor” and Eugene Ysaye’s “Sixth Violin Sonata in E Major.” He will play the same works at the national competition.

“After winning the Rapides and NSU concerto competitions last year Dr. Kurti and I decided to work on a higher level repertoire to participate in a bigger competition, so we decided to participate in the Music Teachers National Association competition,” said Andino, “ We decided not only for a highly technical repertoire but also a very entertaining and impressive one.”

Andino thanked Kurti, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Greg Handel and accompanist Michael Young along with his family for their support.

BOM

The Relay For Life of Natchitoches Parish committee held its Relay For Life Blitz Day here in Natchitoches Jan. 12. Danielle Cobb, American Cancer Society staff partner; Brenda McCain, 2018 Event Lead; Laura Thomisee, a breast cancer survivor and committee member; and Addison Evans, the youngest Relay For Life Team Captain at 10-years-old visited Top Teams. Stops included Alliance Compressors, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, City of Natchitoches, BOM, Weyerhaeuser, SWEPCO, Walmart, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center.

This year’s Relay for Life event is scheduled for April 27 from 6 p.m. – 2 a.m. The theme is “Don’t Sit Calm, Stand Up and Fight Cancer.” Teams are asked to pick their favorite sit-com and decorate their tent site accordingly. International Paper- Red River Mill will be the Survivor Sponsor once again this year, hosting the Survivor Dinner the evening of the event.

Relay for Life is currently accepting new teams, new committee members as well as cancer survivors to participate in the day of activities.

Visit http://www.relayforlife.org/natchitochesla for more event details. Anyone interested in getting involved with the Relay For Life event can contact Danielle Antoon Cobb, Senior Community Development Manager at Danielle.Cobb@cancer.org.

The Rotarian with the Program, David Guillet, introduced the Director of Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery, Grant Weber, at the Rotary Club of Natchitoches meeting Jan. 23. The Natchitoches Fish Hatchery was established in 1931, is one of the largest federal fish hatcheries in the United States, and is celebrating its 75th Anniversary.

Rotarians Tommy Caldwell, Joe Sers and Eddie Harrington received Paul Harris Fellowship Awards from Natchitoches Rotary President David Zolzer (Photos Dr. Ron McBride).

City Marshal Randy Williams wanted to inform the following people that they have outstanding bench warrants through the Natchitoches City Marshal’s Office. The names on this list did not pay their fines in full nor did they return to court on the court date they were sentenced to by City Court Judge Gahagan. These individuals will need to clear up their fines and bench warrant fees at the City Marshal’s Office located at 373 Second St. to stop any further actions:

FINE PAYMENT (F):
Early Antwine Jr., 1023 Berry Ave, Natch, La – Discharging Firearm
Terri Black, 4523 Tannehill LN, Austin, TX – No Vehicle Registration
Scotty Brisker, 2815 Red Oak Rd, Coushatta, La – DWI
Vivan Clark, 190 Sorgee Rd, Natch, La – DWI, No Brake Lights, NCR
Kevin Davis, 201 Barnum St, Campti, La – Exp MVI
Samuel Futrell, 211 Dunn Rd, Natch, La – DWI
Krystle Gates, University Columns, Tarlton Dr #511, Natch, La – TBS
Connie Helaire, Lakeview Apts #4216, Natch, La –Telephone Harassment
Samuel Johnson, 500 North St Apt N-7, Natch, La – DP
Randy Lewis, 1025 Allen St, Natch, La – TBS
Kendrick Nicholas, 175 Lebrus St, Natch, La – DP, No DL
Yolanda Pitts, 618 Hwy 478, Natch, La – TBS
Latarie Robinson, 206 Miranda Loop #2, Natch, La – NSB
Jada Smith, 601 Pavie St, Natch, La – DP
Shendell Solitaire, 1901 South Dr Lot #835, Natch, La – SPOM, (2) No DL
Louis Melancon, 1408 Bennie Davis St, Natch, La – Exp DL
Sheniece Melancon, 1408 Bennie Davis St, Natch, La – No Tail Light
Eleta Washington, 568 Grow St, Montgomery, La – NSB
Holly Borne, 112 B Amulet St, Natch, La – DP, DWI
Mary Bush, 120 Reba St, Natch, La – DP
Makeisha Taylor, 218 Airport Rd, Natch, La – TBS

Trial (T):
Alicia Glass, 1553 Grace St, Natch, La – TBS
Darrin Dickerson, 413 Bennette St, Natch, La – SPOM
Ashley Croll, 1501 North 5th St, Natch, La – TBS
Jermaine LaCaze, 911 Lake St, Natch, La – SPOM
Laerica Ellis, 1305 South 7th St, Monroe, La – SPOM
Shelley Baxter, 515 Fairgrounds Rd Lot 49, Natch, La – TBS
Shola Obialo, 1411 Holmes St, Natch, La – Simple Assault

Kevin’s Gallery

The NCHS’ soccer team held its senior night before a boys/girl’s doubleheader against Monroe’s Neville High School Jan. 23. The Chiefs, Natchitoches’ lone high school soccer program for over 20 years, presented 12 seniors to a crowd of friends, family and soccer fans.

The Natchitoches Parish Journal wishes these impressive young men and women success in the remainder of their season and Godspeed in their future endeavors. We are looking forward to hearing good things about all of you in the future!

Matthew Brown

Son of Mike and Cathlyn Brown. Matthew has played soccer for 4 years at Natchitoches Central. He is a 4 year State Qualifier in Cross Country. This year he was awarded 1st Team All-District and 2nd Team All-State in Cross Country. He is also very active in his Youth Group at First United Methodist Church. Matthew plans to attend Northwestern State University and major in Secondary Education.

Aaron Foster

Son of Eddie & Reinette Foster. Aaron has played soccer each of his high school years. He is an active member of FFA and an officer for the past 2 years. He placed 4th in Agronomy at Nationals. After graduation, Aaron intends to enlist in the US Marine Corps.

Jake Stultz

Son of Rusty and Anne Stultz. Jake attended Natchitoches Central High School his freshman and sophomore years and Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts his junior and senior years. He has played soccer all 4 years for the Chiefs. He has been a member of the Natchitoches Central High School Orchestra as well as the Northwestern State University Orchestra and has performed at Carnegie Hall and throughout Europe. He has also earned All-State as well as All-National Orchestra Honors. Jake plans to attend Louisiana Tech University majoring in Mechanical Engineering and has been awarded an Outstanding Student Scholarship and been admitted to the Honors College.

Russ Stultz

Son of Rusty and Anne Stultz. Russ attended Natchitoches Central High School his freshman and sophomore years and Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts his junior and senior years. He has played soccer all 4 years for the Chiefs. He has been a member of the Natchitoches Central High School Orchestra and has performed at Carnegie Hall and throughout Europe. Russ plans to attend Louisiana Tech University majoring in Mechanical Engineering and has been awarded a Presidential scholarship and admitted to the Honors College. He has also been awarded a full four year Army ROTC scholarship.

Trevor Sullivan

Son of Rowena Sullivan and William Sullivan, Jr.. Trevor attended and played soccer at Slidell High School his freshman year. He has attended Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts for the last 3 years and has played soccer for the Chiefs all 3 of those years. At LSMSA, he is an academic peer tutor. He is undecided which college he will attend.

Dylan Price

Dylan is the son of Brad and Daviona Price. Dylan lettered in soccer for all of 4 years at NCHS and also lettered in football for 3 years. He has earned a 3.5 GPA  and plans to attend Louisiana Tech for aviation, and to become a pilot. Dylan was a state champion in meat identification for the NCHS Future Farmers of America last year. Additionally, Dylan was 2nd team all district in soccer and runner up for 1st team all district in soccer.

Thomas Wiggins

Son of Van and Lisa Wiggins. He has enjoyed being a player on the NCHS varsity soccer team for the past 4 years. He is also active in the fishing team and has enjoyed playing football and baseball as a NCHS chief. He is looking forward to graduating and attending NSU next year pursuing a degree in Engineering Technology.

Senior Annah Carnline was accompanied by her mother, Lois Carnline, and father, Wayne Carnline. She has lettered 2 years for the Lady Chiefs. She has proven to be a strong pillar, having 6 shut-outs just this season. In addition to her varsity soccer play, she is a member of the National Honor Society and Student Government Organization at NCHS. She has been awarded National Honors and Principal’s honor roll due to her outstanding GPA. After high-school she plans to attend LSU, where she will study in pre-med.

Senior Asia Dolliole was a accompanied by her mother, Marianne, and her father, Noe Cortez. She has lettered all 4 years for the Lady Chiefs. She has been varsity’s starting outside back for 3 years. Asia has 4 goals in her high school career. In addition to her play for the Lady Chiefs, she plays varsity tennis. She has an impressive 3.84 GPA . After high school she plans to attend ULL and study Criminal Justice.

Senior Tayla Rachal was accompanied by her mother, Carla Rachal. Tayla has lettered two years for the Lady Chiefs. In her 2 seasons of varisty play, she scored 3 goals. In addition to her play for the Lady Chiefs, she is involved in the National Honor Society at NCHS. Tayla has received several Principal honors, as she maintained a 3.83 GPA through her high school career. She plans to attend LSU and study biology.

Senior Kiara Padilla was accompanied by her mother, Shannon Santana. She has lettered two years for the Lady Chiefs. She has been a varsity starter for both seasons, and has tallied 18 goals thus far in her senior season. In addition to soccer at Natchitoches Central, Kiara is active throughout the athletic teams at the Louisiana School where she also serves as an ambassador. After high school she plans on attending NSU to major in criminal justice with a concentration in psychology and a minor in finance.

Senior Shaylynn Hargis was accompanied by her mother, Lynn, father, Gary, and sister, Linsey. She has played for the Lady Chief soccer team for 2 years, lettering her senior year. Shaylynn has scored a goal and assisted many combination plays in her senior season. In addition to her play for the lady chiefs, she plays varsity softball; all while maintaining an impressive 4.0_GPA. After high school she plans to attend ULL and study_nursing.

Senior Rolesha Colbert was accompanied by coach Yanci Johnson_. She has played for the Lady Chiefs for two years. Though not able to play because of injury, Rolesha has been the loudest and most supportive of our Lady Chiefs. In addition to her play for the Lady Chiefs, she is involved in JROTC and Slap team at NCHS_. After high school she plans to enlist with the Navy.