The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested the following individuals over the past week:

Terrell Burton – Possession of Schedule I

Ouaneal Calhoun – Theft

Marquis Carheel – Failure to Appear

Ledarrien Dixon – Violation of a Protective Order

Aalyshia Edwards – Possession of Marijuana

Ayonna Gillie – Possession of Schedule I

Deverius Shannon – Failure to Appear

Andre Sowell – Resisting an Officer / Possession of Schedule I

Angelica Speed – Simple Criminal Damage to Property

If you would like to report suspicious activity please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101.  Remember all information given shall remain confidential.  

How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:  

You can also report a tip anonymously by downloading the P3 Tips app on your smart phone or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388.  All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $5,000 for the arrest of an offender.

Phonetic: /SPEK-yuh-layt/

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition

• to form ideas or theories about something usually when there are many things not known about it
  
  

  Scientists speculate that the newly discovered exoplanet could host liquid water.

  Their research explores the implications of so many people speculating on the stock market in the years leading up to the Great Depression.

Phonetic: /fɔɪst/

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition

• to introduce or insert surreptitiously or without warrant
• to force another to accept especially by stealth or deceit
  
  … when the states … foist unnecessary expenses on local taxpayers …
  —T. C. Desmond
• to pass off as genuine or worthy
  
  … foist costly and valueless products on the public …
  —Jonathan Spivak
  
  … inferior caviar has been foisted on an unknowing public …
  —David Rosengarten

A Lesson in Community-Driven Aesthetics 

A local controversy regarding the aesthetic of the downtown historic district reached a resolution this week after a unified wave of public feedback led to the removal of a new display at the Front Street traffic circle.

What began as a few isolated social media posts quickly transformed into a citywide conversation involving lifelong residents and newcomers alike. The debate centered on a display placed in the traffic circle across from the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame—a location many consider the “heartbeat” of the community.

While the Mayor initially saw no issue with the installation, the reaction from Natchitoches voters and taxpayers was immediate. Critics argued the display failed to reflect the charm and identity that defines the riverfront district.

The outcry was fueled by several key concerns regarding the city’s image:

• Media Representation: The area is a frequent backdrop for KTBS Channel 3 news broadcasts, projecting the city’s image to viewers across the region.

• Economic Stakes: Residents noted that in a tough economic climate, small businesses rely on the city’s carefully maintained “atmosphere” to drive year-round tourism.

• Preservation Standards: Locals emphasized that the city’s unique appeal—from brick streets to wrought iron—is the result of intentional preservation that must be protected.

The removal of the display is being viewed by many as a victory for public discourse. Rather than mere complaining, the movement was characterized as a deep-seated care for the city’s identity and its economic future.

The saga concluded with Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. acknowledging the community’s voice. By removing what many labeled an “eyesore,” the city administration demonstrated a willingness to listen to the taxpayers who remain committed to Natchitoches’ timeless charm.

Brought to you by Lance Lopez with Farm Bureau, the Harrington Law Firm, the Sharpco Hotel Group, the Mariner’s Restaurant and Local Businessman Pat Johnson;

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The Voices 4 Autism Parent Support Group will host its Autism Awareness Walk and Fun Day on Saturday, April 25 at Natchitoches City Park.

The event, themed “The Best Walk on Earth, We Will Get There Together,” will be held from 10 am – 1 pm.

Participation in the event is free, with optional walking fees set at $20 for groups and $25 for children. Food and drinks will be provided for attendees.

For more information, contact Lela Harvey at 318-529-0638.

The Natchitoches Parish Council meeting will be held on Monday, April 20 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Council Board Room, #211 on the 2nd Floor of the Courthouse.

Agenda for tonight’s meeting:

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