Northwestern State University’s Office of Electronic and Continuing Education will offer a Line Dane class beginning Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 127 of the Health and Human Performance Building. The class will be held each Tuesday through March 13. The fee is $65.

Line Dancing is a fun way to dance socially without a dance partner. Dancing styles covered in this class will include country western, zydeco, hip-hop and an introduction to salsa and waltz.

For more information, call (318) 357-6355, (800) 376-2422 or go to nsula.edu/ece/non-credit-programs.

 

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Two art students at Northwestern State University were selected as winners of this year’s art car design competition and their work is being featured at the 2018 Washington, D.C., Auto Show that runs through Feb. 4.

“Rose,” a design by Taylor Zane Bush of Rogers, Arkansas, won first place and “Lines” by Sarah Hill of Boyce won second. Julien Montousse, head of design for Mazda North American Operations, chose the winning designs with his Irvine, California-based team. Mazda installed Rose on a 2018 Mazda Miata MX-5 RF that is on exhibit during the annual exhibition, one of the nation’s top five auto shows. The world class event continues to wow audiences with its cutting-edge exhibits, latest model cars and displays of historic vehicles.

This is the second year in a row that designs by NSU students were selected as winners of the competition. Their submissions were coordinated by Associate Professor of Art Collier Hyams.

Bush, who is majoring in Fine and Graphic Art, said that when developing the concept for his design, he thought of what kind of person would drive that type of car.

“I myself drive a mid-sized crossover, and I remember my friends referring to my ride as a ‘Mom Car.’ So, I began to think, ‘What do moms like? Maybe I can do some sort of pattern on this car.’”

Doing research, he found a unique chevron pattern, drawing the lines in rose gold, a color popular with women. In applying the design to the Mazda MX 5 RF, he adjusted his original concept to the car.

“I wanted the line to be somewhat reflective and/or have a shine to it. To get this look we then went for a gold as close to the rose gold as we could, which I think was a perfect fit for this car and its style,” Bush said.

“My design, ‘Stripes,’ for the Art Car Project was the last design I created,” said Hill, who is also majoring in Fine and Graphic Art. “My design is based off a minimalist representation of the reflection of sound. I came up with this idea while I was researching the theme or reflection based surfacing and listening to music. Which ultimately led to me approaching it with the idea of incorporating sound waves as my primary influence.

The 2018 Washington Auto Show is being held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Information is available at https://www.washingtonautoshow.com.

Pictured above, a 2018 Mazda Miata MX-5 RF with a wrap design by NSU student Taylor Zane Bush is on exhibit at the Washington, D.C., Auto Show, one of the nation’s top five auto shows.

 

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New Northwestern State football coach Brad Laird will unveil his first signing class at a Demon Quarterback Club Signing Day luncheon next Wednesday, Feb. 7, at the Friedman Student Union Ballroom on campus.

Doors open for the buffet-style lunch at 11:45, with the program starting shortly after noon. Admission is $20.

Guests will be able to watch video highlights on each signee and will receive a packet of biographic information on the signing class. Laird and his staff will provide insight on each signee, and the new Demon coach will also outline plans for spring practice and other upcoming events for Demon football.

Since he was hired in late November as head coach, Laird has put a heavy emphasis on Louisiana high school prospects while working on completing the Demons’ Class of 2018.

Season tickets for the Demons’ five 2018 home games, including contests against in-state rivals Nicholls and McNeese, will be on sale at the luncheon, along with licensed NSU Demon gear. Demon football posters will be given away to guests.

 

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Kiwanian Anita Dubois presented January’s Terrific Kids at Natchitoches Junior High with certificates recognizing them for their character development, self-esteem and perseverance.

 

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NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Edward Allen Corder, Sr.
February 19, 1935 – February 2, 2018
Visitation: Monday, Feb. 5 from 9-11 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Service: Monday, Feb. 5 at 11 am at Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home
Interment: Memory Lawn Cemetery

Joy Dowden Cockrum
October 1, 1952 – January 31, 2018
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 2 pm at Kisatchie Baptist Church in Kisatchie
Interment: Kisatchie Cemetery
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 12-2 pm at Kisatchie Baptist Church, located at 1809 Hwy. 118 in Kisatchie

Ida Moody Mitchell
January 31, 2018
Arrangements TBA

DeEtte Wilkinson Tomka
February 16, 1944 – January 24, 2018
Service: Saturday, Feb. 24 at 11 am at Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 533 Second Street in Natchitoches
Interment: Trinity Bell Tower Columbarium
SURROUNDING AREAS:

James Napier
November 24, 1949 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 5 pm at Warren Meadows Funeral Home in Zwolle
Service: Sunday, Feb. 4 at 1 pm at First Baptist Church of Zwolle
Interment: Sardis Cemetery

Adam “Goose” Keith Maddox
January 6, 1970 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 4-10 pm and Sunday, Feb. 4 from 8-10 am at the Kramer of Fifth Ward Funeral Home
Service: Sunday, Feb. 4 at 10 am in the chapel of Kramer of Fifth Ward Funeral Home
Interment: St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church Cemetery

John Albert Tucker Jr
March 15, 1965 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10 am – 12 pm
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 12 pm in the chapel of Kramer Funeral Home of Fifth Ward Funeral Home
Interment: Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery in Dupont

Annie Edwards
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at Flower Hill Baptist Church in Keatchie
Interment: Flower Hill Cemetery in Keatchie

Klaudia Robinson
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 2 pm at New Jersusalem Baptist Church in Many
Interment: New Jerusalem Cemetery in Many

Fasper Freeman
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 1 pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kingston
Interment: Mt. Zion Cemetery in Kingston

Ernest H. “Rusty” Melton Jr.
March 30, 1943 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9-10 am
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 10 am in the Southern Funeral Home Chapel in Winnfield
Interment: Melton Cemetery

Joy Nell Walker Rogers
June 17, 1935 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Monday, Feb. 5 from 5-8 pm at Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield
Service: Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 10 am at the First United Methodist Church of Winnfield

Pattie June Hippler Britner
November 7, 1963 – January 30, 2018
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 3 pm at Beulah Baptist Church
Interment: Beulah Cemetery

Eleanor Rodgers Wyatt
February 10, 1958 – January 28, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9:30-11 am at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Interment: Montgomery Community Cemetery

Eula “Sherry” Francis Dennis
April 7, 1935 – January 26, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10-11 am at Aimwell Baptist Church in Zwolle
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at Aimwell Baptist Church
Interment: Aimwell Cemetery

 

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Northwestern State President Dr. Chris Maggio has been named to the North Louisiana Economic Partnership’s Board of Directors for 2018-19. Maggio was among 51 business, professional, governmental and educational leaders selected by the partnership’s nearly 200 investors.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve alongside outstanding leaders in a variety of fields who are working to advance north Louisiana,” said Maggio. “Northwestern State is committed to producing students who are ready for today’s workforce. The information I am able to gain while serving on the NLEP board will help the university as it continues working closely with business and industry to advance our region and the state.”

North Louisiana Economic Partnership, an Accredited Economic Development Organization, provides professional economic development services to the 14-parish region of North Louisiana, including lead generation and prospect management. The organization also represents the interests of North Louisiana with a unified voice and as a single point of contact. It acts as a catalyst, convener and connector in the region to ensure that North Louisiana’s economic development potential is realized. Its vision is for North Louisiana to be a thriving region that is a destination for high quality talent, innovative companies and global investment.

Last year, Northwestern State hosted executives from NLEP for a round table meeting to discuss the university’s role in economic development and opportunities for collaboration to improve workforce development initiatives.

Over the last four years, Northwestern State has created new programs and strengthened existing programs to fill jobs here in Louisiana. These include a doctorate of nursing practice, a doctor of education degree in adult education administration, post-baccalaureate certificate programs in business analytics, project management and quality control, a master of science in information management, a bachelor of applied science in resource management, a bachelor of science in environmental chemistry, a bachelor of arts program in foreign languages and a bachelor of science degree in microbiology.

Partnerships with business and industry create opportunities for students to gain practical experience before they graduate. Programs promote internships, externships and other opportunities at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.

Northwestern State has agreements with several community and technical colleges around the state that allow students who complete a two-year degree to transfer credits to apply towards a bachelor’s degree, which saves time and money and opens career opportunities.

NSU is a pioneer in online education, offering 39 degree programs online, more than any other public institution in Louisiana. Online programs are beneficial for active-duty military, individuals who are employed full-time or those who location limits their ability to attend a traditional class.

 

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Arlene Gould of the Natchitoches Convention and Visitors Bureau was installed as Treasurer of the Louisiana Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (LACVB) Board of Directors during the association’s January meeting in Lafayette.

“I am honored to be serving LACVB and the statewide convention and visitor industry,” said Arlene Gould. “This organization plays an important role in connecting travel industry organizations throughout the state and helping them work together to attract convention and tourism business. I look forward to working with my fellow board members to keep the momentum going.”

New officers installed include the following: Paul Arrigo, with Visit Baton Rouge, as president; Eric Edwards, with the Livingston Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, as vice president; Timothy Bush, with Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou, as secretary; and Travis Napper, with the Ruston-Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau, as immediate past president.

“We are thrilled that our members have selected a slate of industry leaders from throughout the state to lead this organization as we work to position the convention and visitor industry as an important economic driver and provide members opportunities to market their communities as travel destinations,” said Jill Kidder, LACVB president and CEO.

About the Louisiana Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus

The mission of LACVB is to serve as the collective voice of Louisiana’s destination marketing organizations and provide members with education, networking and marketing opportunities. It works to impact the local, state and national convention and visitor industry, while also positioning the industry as an important economic generator in member communities.

 

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Thanks to Barbara Leach from LA Workforce Commission for speaking to our J.A.G. members on Jan. 31. She discussed job searching, building a resumes, how to fill out job application and the importance of turning in a two week notice before ending employment.

Pictured on front row from left are Aerial Jones, Mr. Barbara Leach, Lamontrea Robinson, Junneica Robinson, Arboni Brown, Courtravion Brimsey, Jhidorn Petite, and India Jackson. On middle row are Brad Young, NyKhia Moore, Raven Johnson, Caitlin Nash, Andrew Ezernack, Musa Bakeer, Christopher Demary, Caylin Demars, Devonta Rice, Anaya Mitchell, Mazette Queen, Charlene Walker, and Kendrea Braxton. On back row are Kayla Elliott, La Daysha Braxton, Jamontrey Hamilton, Tyrenisha Bowers, Jaylon Bell, Kenneth Brickhouse, Gevious Washington, Landon Allred, Jesse Lofton, and Diamond LaCaze.

 

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Get lasting relief from heavy periods caused by abnormal uterine bleeding

Her Option® is a safe and effective treatment that uses sub-zero temperatures to destroy the tissue lining the uterus (endometrium).

It is this tissue that sheds during your period that causes bleeding. By destroying most or all of this lining, your periods will be reduced or eliminatd.

Is your menstrual bleeding excessive?
Bleeding that soaks through one or more sanitary pads or tampons every hour for several consecutive hours.
Bleeding so heavy you need to double up on sanitary protection. Bleeding that causes you to change protection during the night. A period lasting longer than seven days.

Menstual flow containing large blood clots.

Heavy periods that interfere with your regular lifestyle
(i.e. physical activities, sexual intimacy, career, recreation, self-confidence)

Constant pain in your lower abdomen during your period. Severe cramps or headaches during your period.

Irregular periods.

Tiredness, fatigue or shortness of breath (symptoms of anemia). Depression or moodiness during your period.

If you’ve experienced one or more of these symptoms, your heavy periods could be the result of a condition called abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) or Menorrhagia.
You do not need to live with heavy periods and the limitations associated with AUB.

Moshood Olatinwo, M.D.
617 Bienville Street, Suite A
Natchitoches, Louisiana 71457
318-352-1108

www.summitobgynofnatchitoches.net

Paid Advertising

Shouts of “throw me something Mister” are being heard all over our state. Carnival Krewes are loading floats with throws, dressing up for Balls and loosening up their throwing arms. Louisiana is preparing for Lent. Many people don’t appreciate the association of Mardi Gras and Lent. Trust us, when you see the purple, green and gold beads hanging from overhead utility lines, Lent is close. In Louisiana we know how to prepare for Lent. We party!

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 14th. I suggest you might be careful in choosing to give up chocolate this Lent. If you give up chocolate, please let your significant Valentine’s gift buyer know of your decision.

Lent is associated with the spiritual discipline of fasting. Have you ever fasted? That is where all the fish on Friday jokes and stories come from. McDonald’s once sold a pineapple sandwich to take care of all the Friday fasters. They won’t do that again, but they can bring back the McRib.

Fasting is the spiritual discipline of reality, the interior posture of recognizing how radically we depend on God—choosing the hungers of reliance and desperation even when circumstances are fine. The truth is, we are always in desperate need of God, through conditions or surroundings maybe buffer and conceal it. Fasting pierces that veil.

Fasting is the strong assertion that our bodies are not our masters, that our god is not our stomach. Few practices cut more deeply against the grain of our indulgent, gluttonous culture than this. Yet, fasting was clearly a custom of Jesus and one he expected of His disciples. It is more frequently mentioned in the Bible than baptism.

There are fasts in Scripture of guidance, for discernment of God’s will, fasts associated with grieving, fasts to seek deliverance and salvation from enemies, fasts to express concern for God’s work, dedication to God’s call, and praise of God’s glory.

Jesus taught that fasting should be hidden for God to honor it. Jews ordinarily put ashes on their heads and bathed less during times of fasting and mourning. Clean faces and anointed heads were the custom of weddings and celebrations. Jesus taught, that while fasting, one should have a clean face and anointed head. The one fasting, known only to God according to the deeper righteousness of His kingdom could be assured of His reward.

Clement of Alexandria, in the second century records that early believers fasted on Wednesdays and Fridays. Fasting has been a part of the observance of Lent since 340 AD, when Athanasius suggested it be used to commemorate Jesus’ experience in the wilderness. Fasting has been used throughout the church as a preparation for the Lord’s Supper. John Wesley refused to ordain Methodist leaders who did not observe a weekly time of fasting. Yes, I am reading what I am writing!

Jesus fasted. Jesus modeled fasting for his followers and expected it of them. The New Testament church fasted. Why do so few Christians fast? Perhaps they are and we don’t know it?

In the next couple of weekends when the parties, parades and Balls are in full swing, I thought you needed to know the reason for the party. Folks were living it up because Lent is coming.

How would it change our faith if we took the fast of Lent as seriously as we take the fun of Mardi Gras?

Since 1976, the United States has celebrated the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans since the African diaspora. Before this, historian Carter G. Woodson announced the second week of February, due to it coinciding with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass on Feb. 14 and Abraham Lincoln on Feb. 12, to be a time of celebration as black communities had celebrated these dates together since the late 19th century.

In keeping with this tradition, the Natchitoches Parish Library (NPL) has planned events throughout this month to encourage the celebration and remembrance of African American heritage and history. Every Friday this month, at 4pm, there will be a special Black History Month themed craft in the children’s department, open to all ages.

The NPL children’s department will also have two Black History Month movie and popcorn days, Feb. 7 and 21, at 3:30 pm.

The teen department will have a Black History movie day as well on Feb. 13, from 3-6pm. A Black History Month game night will be held on Feb. 20 at 6 pm, where teens will learn to play Mancala, a popular counting game that originated in Africa, along with other games popular in Black culture.

There will also be programming open to adults, including a live gospel music performance on Feb. 22 at 6:30 pm at the NPL! It will be a celebration of gospel music and spirituals, featuring the Agape Love Center Choir. This event is open to all ages. Two Black author showcases will take place on Saturday, Feb. 10 and Feb. 17 at 10 am. These will be book talks hosted by Terri Marshall, highlighting several recent books by African Americans. No sign up is required for either of these events and walk-ins are welcome!

For those closer to the Northeast Branch (NEB) in Campti, there will also be a special Black History Month program featuring guest speaker Mr. Elvin Shields, President of the Natchitoches Genealogical and Historical Association. He will discuss unique challenges facing those of African descent in tracing their ancestry and offer some solutions to those wishing to fill out their family trees.

For more information about any of these programs, you may visit natlib.org, the Natchitoches Parish Library Facebook page, or call the NPL at 357-3280, or the NEB at 476-3280.

 

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Northwestern State University announced the names of 1,175 students named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2017 semester. Students on the Dean’s List maintained a 3.5-3.99 grade point average. Students, listed by hometown, are as follows.

Aimwell – Jonathan Poole;

Alexandria – Abigail Barton, Heather Bergeron, Jordan Berlin, Lydia Branch, Morgan Bryant, Kayla Busby, William Faubion, Claudia Gauthier, Monnie Guillory, Martha Hopewell, Jaliyah Jasper, Hunter Lewis, Jimmie Magee, Paige Meynard, Jennifer Miranda, Wade Morris, Sha’Darius Plummer, Sadae Polk, Emily Rachal, Imani Ricks, Kenya Sariale, Shacora Simpson, Tammethia Starks, Christopher Warren, Elaina Williams, KaWonda Williams;

Barksdale AFB – Taylor Hemsworth, Tova Volcheck;

Bossier – Krystal Abraham, Jael Ahmad, Mickayla Blue, Shelby Booth, Katie Briggs, Hannah Brooks, Kendall Caple, Lacy Chism, Sharonda Demars, Nancy Diaz, Madison Edwards, Zachary Ekendahl, DeMontre Evans, Matthew Flynn, Toby Fontenot, Kelsey Gallman, Courtney Giddens, Julie Golden, Sydney Gootee, Jacob Guest, Candace Guillory, Jacob Hammons, Adrianne Hampton, Andrea Haynes, Caylin Head, Earline Hill, Oai Lee Huynh, Dejaney Jackson, Corey Johnson, Haley Joncas, Shane Kaiser, Hang Lian, Rance Mason, Kasey McClain, Claire McMillan, Benjamin Nati-Johnson, Kennedy Parson, Shelby Peebles, Michael Phelps, Taylor Powell, Shelly Purcell, Johnathon Schluter, Haley Sepulvado, Trayvon Snow, Savannah Stevens, Jessica Sullivan, Benjamin Tanner, Collin Thigpen, Michael Thomas, Kathy Thompson, Kortney Toellner, Giselle Trejo, Angel Vakoff;

Boyce – Hannah Aslin, Tiffany Barnhart, Brooklynn Basco, Ekaterina Bordelon, Lauren Davison, Timothy Glass, Sonya Hill, Devin Hilliard, Hannah Miller, Alexandra Morgan;

Campti – Paige Cason, Troy Coleman, Allison Friday, Charleen Huffman, Pepper Lloyd;

Chopin – Dakota Nichols;

Cloutierville – LaKrisha Burrell, Alexia Gistarb;

Coushatta – Colton Campbell, Jameson Campbell, Elizabeth Cummins, Jon Hester, Sidney Jones, Lajustice Johnson, Aston Lester, Aaron Murray, Mikailah Smith, Precious Smith, Lauren Young;

Florien – Emma Herrington, Cullen Hopkins, Caroline Matthews, Noah Parker, Dylan Roberts, Chelci Scott;

Fort Polk – Amanda Dhondt, Abigail Howard, Allyson Predmore, Erin Schwartz, Shiela May Tabonares, Nohora Valencia Camacho;

Goldonna – Alexander Guillory;

Leesville – Junette Cutshaw, Skyler Abrams, Heather Alexander, Samantha Anable, Taylor Anderson, Summer Atkins, Katlyn Austin, Hannah Baker, Rebekah Bridges, Tyler Bruss, Victoria Butler, Anthony Cantrell, Amy Eckerle, Caryllan Fermato, Ovina Forque, Brittany French, Brandon Furlow, Jessica Gray, Madison Hall, Gabriella Haymon, Heather Hickman, Katherine Johnson, Jamal Jones, Hannah Longo, James Magee, Skylar Maines, Kylie McAllister, megan McDonald, Amy McKellar, Constance McManus, Gregory McNeal, Kelsea Mckinney, Emily Moore, Lisa Moore, Kaitlyn Pajinag, Victoria Perkins, Charlotte Rivara, Chloe Rouleau, Reginald Rubin, Nikkie Salinas-Chavis, Hannah Scott, Joseph Slaughter, Rachel Smith, Alicia Stanford, Bruce Stone, Sydmi Striedel, Marissa Weldon, Lana West, Kristin Whistine;

Lena – Juan Gonzales, Dillon Guin, Justin Williams;

Mansfield – Rowdy Burleson, Quinterra Clark, James Sowell, Devin Vanwinkle, Stanley Woodley;

Many – Chelsea Beasley, Rachel Bensinger, Jocelyn Cannon, Samantha Carrier, Shelby Clifton, Mallory Crittenden, Salvador Cruz Montellano, Laura Davis, Kyle Elliott, Nicholas Ezernack, Skyler Ezernack, Tiarra Frazier, Abby Hinds, Clayton Kelley, Charles LaFollette, Kaley Leach, Jonnathan Medine, Adina Manchack, Gabrielle Murphy, Chelsea Parrie, Lincoln Pearce, Thomas Phillips, Jonathan Pilcher, Sabrina Ross, Colten Sepulvado, Jasmine Sweet, Bailey Walker, Matthew Wooley;

Marthaville – Dylan Daniels, Dillon Hagan, Thomas Lirette, Madeline Procell, Alaina Weeks;

Maurice – Jenna-Clair Courville;

Natchez – Jackson Carroll, James Rougeau;

Natchitoches — James Almond, Daniella Angulo Martinez, Cass Arnold, Abbie Atwood, Thomas Balthazar, Samuel Bedgood, Gracie Bennett, Keaton Booker, Kayla Bordelon, Taylor Burch, Justin Burr, Deasia Burrell, Morgan Burris, Ebone Burton, Kezia Butler, Ana Cardaba Garcia, Valerie Chadick, Halley Chapa, Brittony Cole, Dalton Dark, Kara Davis, Sean Day, Hannah Deloney, Mazie Dubois, Lydia Doucet, Alyssa Duchesne, Elijah Durr, Peyton Ebarb, Layne Elkins, Jacob Ellis, Daniela Forero Salcedo, Ashley Fortenberry, Christopher Fuller, Corey Gallion, Luis Gallo Quintero, Taylor Garland, Laura Guzman Rodriguez, Orlando Gonzalez, Ian Grant, Samuel Greene, Jorgia Hamel, Dannie Harmon, Kaitlin Hatten, Jett Hayes, Emily Heard, Polina Ivanova, Retsel Jackson, Regina Johnson, Anthony Jones, Michael Kinglsey, Abagael Kinney, Ashante Knox, Lyndon Knueppel, Mary Koleas, Tarah Lott, Roger Luafalemana, Cody Luce, Meredith Machen, Alyssa Martin, Thomas Matuschka, Lathan Meyers, Brittany Miller, Jasmine Milsap, Ja’Lesia Mims, Joshua Minor, Jamie Neeley, Brooklyn Noe, Trevor O’Bannon, Joseph Parrie, Meredith Phelps, Kevin Price, Brandy Ranel, Rebecca Reine, Candice Richardson, Ashley Rico, Destinee Roberson, Cayla Roberts, Aaron Rogers, Taylor Rutledge, Emily Salter, Dante Samuel, Paula Sanchez Luna, Spencer Sepulvado, Nigel Severin, Anna Sibley, Anna Smith, Qinessia Smith, Rachel Smith, Shannon Smith, Hollie Spillman, Josie Stamey, Scott Stewart, Enonedria Thompson, Caitlyn Tobin, Hassik, Vazquez Narvaez, Ricardo Ventura, Eva Venzant, Hey Virece, Ryan Wade, Brittany White, Sarah Kay Whitehead, Nicholas Wiggins, Ryan Wright, ShaRhonda Zeno, Donna Cooper, Brian Jordan, Anna Taveney;

Oak Grove – Heather Allen, Tonya Creech;

Pineville – Taylor Bailey, Emily Bordelon, Christian Boudreaux, Alexzandria Boyd, Latasha Cain, Taylor Campbell, Kaylee Chronister, Luke Conway, Caitlin Crawford, Selena Ferguson, Sarah Flue, Hannah Gaspard, Leia Graham, Megan Gypin, Kaitlyn Jackson, Sidnie Kendrick, Landon King, Ashlee Mitchell, Santana Mount, Rylee Parker, Jason Parks, Michalene Perry, Victoria Peterson, Cinnamon Player, Wendi Powell, Bonni Rayburn, Jodie Roberts, Mary Robinson, Rachel Rudd, Thaddaeus Sands, Candice Smith, Mikah Smith, Corbi Walters, Emily Wiley, Jewel Woods, Madeline Wright;

Pleasant Hill – Brayleigh Brown, Stephanie Pulzone, Lamairea Scott, Yasmine Maxie;

Provencal – Taylor Craft, Katlynn French, Christopher Jennings;

Robeline – Reshanda Housley, Alyssa Maley, Bergen Oge, Courtney Rachal, Madelyn Rachal, Morgan Rachal, Fawn Slaughter, Bradley Sparish, Rebecca Sparish, Christopher Taylor, Jeffrey Watley;

Saline – Jerri Blanchard, Cheyenne Roberts;

Shreveport – Lindsey Adkins, DayJah Alexander, ShyMiracle Ball, Noah Baudoin, Hannah Bolton, Alyssa Bonacci, Kikeeriya-Jontay Bowden, Rakeisha Brown, Tiffany Calhoun, Rikkia Ceasar, Amanda Charles, Toney Charles, Jessie Childers, Tracy Clark, Celeste Clifton, Brandon Cockerham, Elizabeth Cook, Audrey Copeland, Kendall Crosby, Courtney Dehart, Miya Douglas, Kristina Doyal, Shalanda Duncan, Brandy Ellison, Reagan Escude, Irishia Finister, Jamie French, Cander Freret, Aaran Gafford, Tyler Gardner, Chelsea Girard, Andrell Green, Courtnei Green, Elaina Guerrero, Nadeen Hajaj, Brea Housley, Madyson Istre, Drake Johnson, Ainsley Johnson-Braden, Demariae Jordan, Lajarious Jones, Nathan Jones, Jason Joshua, Colton Kennedy, Emily Kennon, Kaitlyn Knighton, Jesse Kortus, Mallory LaLena, Taimata Luafalemana, Tiffany Mack, Rici McDonald, Maxey McSwain, Destiny Mitchell, Myles Mitchell, Kelly Moody, Damitron Moore, Latravia Mosley, Aaron Navarre, Dana Patterson Evans, Haley Peace, Patricia Reed, Jasmine Roberts, Brandon Rosalis, An-Gel Samuel, Chekayah Samuel, Kathryn Shrader, Mary Sibley, Kariah Sisk-Shaheed, Richard Sloan, Fredriona Smallwood, Jamie Stewart, Joyce Taylor, Cynthia Terrell, Angela Thomas, Gabrielle Thomas, Albert Tuiel, Kayla Waller, Jayla Washington, Aaliyah Watkins, Devon West, Crystal Williams, Lajayda Williams, Suzanne Williams, Emily Wingrove, Morgan Woodall, Ashlee Wyndon;

Winnfield – Harli Austin, Taylor Burnett, Kerry Fitzgerald, Melissa Godwin, Kara Grantadams, Ieishlia Lynch, Marisa Mercer, George Parish, Javoni Thomas, Caitlin Womack, Caroline Womack, Katy Zimmerman;

Zwolle – Cheyanne Ebarb, Lloyd Gentry, Courtney McDaniel, Konner Parrie, Deidre Rivers, Rylea Sepulvado;

 

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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):
Kennedy Blackman Jr., 1120 Magnolia St, Natch, La – Simple Assault
Jonathen Marsh, 501 Bossier St Apt A, Natch, La – Exp MVI
Kevin Evans, 169 Caspari St, Natch, La – DP, Criminal Trespass
Jacqueline Moody, 127 Gabrielle Loop, Natch, La – No DL, NSB
Whitney Solitaire, 700 Bossier St #1, Natch, La – DP
Lekeshia Willis, 843 Knooce St, Natch, La – DP, Simple Assault
Jerrell Aaron, 845 Posey St, Natch, La – SCDP
Vance Coutee, 1514 Dean St, Natch, La – NSB
Latoya Finister, 500 North St Apt Q8, Natch, La – DP
Robert Griffin, 100 Lakeview Dr Apt 304, Natch, La – SPOM
Daphanie Sowell, 150 Paul Jorban Rd, Natch, La – No DL, Impeding Flow of Traffic
Elbert Vaughn, 1436 Grace Ave, Natch, La – NSB, Exp MVI
Caterica Williams, 298 Vienne Rd Lot 15, Natch, La – Exp MVI
Shaunkeylius Efferson, 1401 Dixie St, Natch, La – LM
Alvin Bolden, 1313 Primrose, Natch, La – DWI
Dinesha Landrus, 500 North St Apt 14, Natch, La – TBS
Anqunetta McNeal, 211 Miranba Loop Apt 2, Natch, La – NCR, Exp MVI
Kendall Owens, 470 Dixie St, Natch, La – TBS
William Robinson, 1250 Dixie St, Natch, La – Simple Assault, DWI
Cortez Duncantel, 430 Howell St, Natch, La – Simple Assault
Callissia Mitchell, 420 Julia St, Natch, La – Unlicensed Driver
Crystal Blake, 738 Brahma Dr, Natch, La – DP

Trial (T):
Demario Bush, 1225 St John St, Natch, La – Unlicensed Driver, Hit & Run
Alvin Bolden, 1313 Primrose, Natch, La – SPOM
Jason Moss, 130 Robeau St, Campti, La – DWI, Unlicensed Driver
Elizabeth Sykes, 324 E. Thirb St, Natch, La – LM
Arbranika Smith, 515 Fairgrounbs Lot 51, Natch, La – DP
Teresa McHenry, 500 Lakeview Dr Apt 521, Natch, La – TBS, DUS

 

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Ivan Smith Furniture held their annual awards banquet on Jan. 30. The Natchitoches store received several awards including:

Rookie of the Year, Ricky Hatchet:
This award goes to the top Salesperson in the first full year with the company.

First Runner Up Salesperson of the Year, Robbie Tarpley:
This award goes to the second place overall salesperson in the company.

Commitment to Service, Robbie Tarpley:
This award goes to a single employee who best exemplifies the company’s commitment to improved and enhanced customer relationships.

Ivan Cup:
This award goes to the best store in the company in combined sales categories.

Pictured above, from left, are Ricky Hatchet, Robbie Tarpley, Store Manager Dane Terrell, and Regional Manager Cary Nissen.

 

 

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NATCHITOCHES PARISH:

Ida Moody Mitchell
January 31, 2018
Arrangements TBA

DeEtte Wilkinson Tomka
February 16, 1944 – January 24, 2018
Service: Saturday, Feb. 24 at 11 am at Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 533 Second Street in Natchitoches
Interment: Trinity Bell Tower Columbarium
SURROUNDING AREAS:

Annie Edwards
Visitation: Friday, Feb. 2 from, 7-8 pm at Jenkins Funeral Home in Mansfield
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at Flower Hill Baptist Church in Keatchie
Interment: Flower Hill Cemetery in Keatchie

Klaudia Robinson
Visitation: Friday, Feb. 2 from 6-8 pm at Jenkins Funeral Home in Many
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 2 pm at New Jersusalem Baptist Church in Many
Interment: New Jerusalem Cemetery in Many

Fasper Freeman
Visitation: Friday, Feb. 2 from 1-6 pm at Jenkins Funeral Home in Mansfield
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 1 pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Kingston
Interment: Mt. Zion Cemetery in Kingston

Paula Pratt
No serve planned

Ernest H. “Rusty” Melton Jr.
March 30, 1943 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Friday, Feb. 2 from 5-8 pm and Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9-10 am
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 10 am in the Southern Funeral Home Chapel in Winnfield
Interment: Melton Cemetery

Joy Nell Walker Rogers
June 17, 1935 – January 31, 2018
Visitation: Monday, Feb. 5 from 5-8 pm at Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield
Service: Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 10 am at the First United Methodist Church of Winnfield

Pattie June Hippler Britner
November 7, 1963 – January 30, 2018
Visitation: Begins Friday, Feb. 2 at 5 pm at Beulah Baptist Church
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 3 pm at Beulah Baptist Church
Interment: Beulah Cemetery

Raymond Samuel Newman
September 23, 1934 – January 29, 2018
Service: Friday, Feb. 2 at 1:30 pm at Old Union Cemetery

Eleanor Rodgers Wyatt
February 10, 1958 – January 28, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9:30-11 am at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church
Interment: Montgomery Community Cemetery

Eula “Sherry” Francis Dennis
April 7, 1935 – January 26, 2018
Visitation: Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10-11 am at Aimwell Baptist Church in Zwolle
Service: Saturday, Feb. 3 at 11 am at Aimwell Baptist Church
Interment: Aimwell Cemetery

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After careful consideration, and with the support of the appointed Principal Search Committee, the Superintendent of the Diocese of Alexandria, and Bishop David Talley, Father Blake Deshautelle has officially named Andrea Harrell as Principal of St. Mary’s Catholic School.

During the past year, Harrell has done an exemplary job in leading our school and community, and we have no doubt that she will continue to do so as we move forward. In addition to showing strong leadership, Harrell has been faithful in building and supporting the Catholic identity of St. Mary’s.

“Mrs. Harrell has continued to work with teachers and students to build a strong curriculum while at the same time striving to create a healthy environment of positive teamwork and excellence,” said Father Blake Deshautelle. “I would like to thank all those who have been involved in this process as well as those who have shown such wonderful support during this time of transition.”

This marks a new period of education and opportunity at St. Mary’s Catholic School as Harrell joins a long list of faithful principals who have responded to God’s call to serve. While she is not Catholic, she has nevertheless demonstrated a firm resolve to not only further the Catholic faith of the school, but she has also demonstrated a willingness to support and continually learn about our faith tradition. Bishop Talley is fully aware of her hard work, as well as her background, and he has given his full support. Therefore, please continue to keep Harrell and Father Blake in your prayers, as well as all who strive to serve our children here at St. Mary’s. May God’s blessing be upon all of you as we continue this new year together.

Pictured above are Zachary Harrell, Brianna Harrell, Andrea Harrell and Wayne Harrell.

 

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The Louisiana Travel Promotion Association (LTPA) – which voted Jan. 23 to change its name to the Louisiana Travel Association (LTA) – installed a group of tourism industry leaders as new officers for its executive committee and board of directors during the association’s Annual Membership Meeting Jan. 25 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Lafayette.

“For 57 years, LTA has strengthened Louisiana’s tourism industry through our marketing program, advocacy efforts and educational opportunities,” said Jill Kidder, LTA President and CEO. “We are thrilled that our members have selected tourism industry leaders from throughout the state to lead this organization as we continue to promote a viable job-creating and revenue-producing industry.”

New officers installed on the executive board committee include:

Chairman Travis Napper, Ruston-Lincoln CVB
Vice-Chair Janice Delerno Verges, The Stockade Bed & Breakfast
Secretary Ben Berthelot, Lafayette CVC
Treasurer Kerry Andersen, Pinnacle Entertainment
Immediate Past Chair Mark Romig, New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation

New directors:

Timothy Bush, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou
Dustin Gontarski, Compass Media
Jennifer Ritter Guidry, Atchafalaya National Heritage Area
Kevin Kelly, Houmas House Plantation & Gardens

Returning directors:

Marc Becker, New Orleans Hotel Collection
Peggy Benoit, Carmel Inn & Suites Thibodaux
Dickie Brennan, Dickie Brennan & Company
Alana Cooper, Monroe-West Monroe CVB
John Crook, Vernon Parish Tourist Commission
Brandy Evans, Shreveport-Bossier CTB
Marion Fox, Jeff Davis Parish Tourist Commission
Arlene Gould, Natchitoches Parish CVB
Andy LeBouef, Mardi Gras World
Ralph Ney, Marriot Hotel Baton Rouge
Donna O’Daniels, St. Tammany Parish Tourist & Convention Commission
Lynette Tanner, Frogmore Plantation & Gins
Denise Thevenot, Louisiana Tax Free Shopping

About the Louisiana Travel Association

LTA, formerly the Louisiana Travel Promotion Association, is a trade association leading and strengthening Louisiana’s vibrant tourism industry through promotion, education and advocacy on behalf of our members. The membership voted in early 2018 to shorten the association’s name and staff is working with an agency to reveal a full rebrand later this year. Tourism generated $1.04 billion for Louisiana in 2016 and employs more than 230,000 people throughout the state. For more information, visit LTPA.org.

 

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