LINCOLN, Neb.—Vernell Atamah dropped in a game-high 20 points, but the Northwestern State women’s basketball team couldn’t overcome 24 turnovers and the size of Nebraska in a season-opening 103-46 loss Monday afternoon at Pinnacle Bank Arena.
NSU (0-1) coughed the ball up 17 times in the first half, leading to 30 Nebraska (1-0) points, which put the Demons behind to stay. They turned it over only seven times in the final 20 minutes.
“Today’s game was a tail of two halves,” head coach Anna Nimz said. “The girls corrected a lot of our first half mistakes and locked in and played more intentional in the second half. I was very happy with how they responded after halftime and played with more poise and discipline.
“We have a lot of good, teachable moments from today. Now we learn from it and prepare to take on Wichita State.”
Nebraska shot well from the field all day long, shooting 61 percent from the field, including 8-of-10 in the final frame. That was helped by 50 points in the paint.
When they didn’t score inside, the Cornhuskers used their size to earn trips to the free throw line, making 23-of-30.
Nebraska built a 32-10 lead after the first period and led 59-18 at halftime.
In the second half, it was a different story. Held to just five points on 1-of-7 shooting in the first half, last year’s Southland Conference Freshman of the Year woke up in the third quarter.
After missing her first two shots of the quarter, Atamah came alive, making five straight shots and scoring 15 in the third quarter to play the Cornhuskers to a virtual stalemate.
Next for the Demons is a Thursday contest at Wichita State, the second of three road games to begin the season.
Micah Thomas poured in a career-high 28 points for Northwestern Monday night at Texas A&M. (NSU file photo by CHRIS REICH)
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The Northwestern State men’s basketball team battled through a relentless Texas A&M press but couldn’t overcome the Aggies’ size and tempo in a season-opening 98–68 loss Monday night at Reed Arena.
Third-year Demons coach Rick Cabrera praised his team’s effort despite the outcome, noting the experience will serve as a valuable teaching tool.
“I’m proud of my guys for the effort,” Cabrera said. “We did some good things, but giving up 98 points is never acceptable. We didn’t guard the way my teams are known to defend. The press bothered us, but it’s a learning experience. One loss doesn’t define us — we’ll bounce back.”
Micah Thomas paced NSU with 28 points on 9-for-16 shooting, including 4-for-4 from 3 and 6-for-6 from the line. Omar Adegbola provided a second-half spark with 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting and 4-for-4 from the stripe.
“Micah carried us and played like a guard who could start for them,” Cabrera said.
Cabrera said facing an SEC press like A&M’s “Bucky Ball” defense provided perspective on the challenges ahead.
“We’re not going to see another defense like this,” he said. “They scored 48 points in the paint — that’s almost half their total. You can’t win when teams are getting that many layups and twos. But this is how we get better. I told our guys: it’s a learning game.”
Cabrera emphasized the impact of missing forward Willie Williams, who was sidelined with an injury.
“Willie’s such a big part of what we do,” Cabrera said. “He’s a great ball handler for his size and would’ve helped us against their press. Once we’re healthy, I expect us to compete for a conference championship.”
Northwestern returns to action Thursday at North Texas.
Ella is a loving and easy going girl with just the right amount of playful energy. She enjoys having fun and being part of the action, but she is happiest when she’s getting attention, affection, and lots of belly rubs.
One of Ella’s cutest quirks is her perfect sploot — she loves stretching out in the most adorable way, especially after a good cuddle session. And she gives riding in a car a 10 out of 10, especially if there’s a pup cup involved!
Friendly and affectionate, Ella believes every person she meets is a new friend. She’ll happily soak up all the attention and return it with love and kisses!
If you’re looking for a sweet pup who brings the perfect mix of playfulness and calm, Ella is your girl. She’s ready to share her heart — and her perfect sploot — with her forever family.
For more information about fostering or adopting Ella please reach out to FAUNA (Friends All United For Natchitoches Animals) at npfauna@gmail.com or visit the website npfauna.org
Ronald’s job required him to travel all over the world. His career was hectic, sometime chaotic, and he was constantly on the go. He was always surrounded by people. When Ronald got a much-needed break from work, he wanted to spend his time somewhere peaceful and quiet. His favorite hobby, fishing, provided him the perfect escape.
And so it was early one evening in the 1980s. Ronald and his dog, a toy fox terrier named Tuffy, boarded Ronald’s bass boat and headed out onto Lake Shasta in northern California. Ronald was sure to find solitude in the 30,000-acre lake whose shoreline spans some 365 miles. Ronald motored his boat into a cove on the lake near a grove of tall pine trees which jutted out from the depths. Some of the pine trees, the Sugar Pine, grow to a height of up to 200 feet, but about half of the height of the trees Ronald anchored his boat near that day were underwater. There was hardly a ripple on the water. He could hear a slight breeze blowing through the trees and the calls of a few birds. A dog barked in the distance. Ronald cast his bait into the water. As he slowly reeled it back in, he glanced at the beautiful snow-capped Mount Shasta, the second highest peak in the Cascade mountain range. He scanned the shoreline and took a deep breath. When he exhaled, it was as if months of pressure was released from his body and mind. With each cast, he became more relaxed. The catching of a fish was beside the point. There were no other boats in sight. Nothing, he thought, could interrupt the tranquility that he was experiencing.
Suddenly, without any buildup or warning, the silence was broken by a sound he described as being “as loud as a hundred freight trains.” Ronald was born and raised in a refrigerated boxcar that his father had converted into a home just about a rock’s throw from the main line of the Santa Fe railroad. The noise was instantaneous and deafening. Ronald thought someone had thrown a case of dynamite into the lake. He was sure it was the end for himself and Tuffy. One of the tall pine trees near his fishing spot, a tree he estimated to have been about 110 feet tall, “was released by mother nature from the bottom of the lake.” With so much of the tree underwater, when its deep roots let go it shot up into the air like a rocket to a height of about 300 feet then broke into three pieces. Ronald said, “millions of gallons of water flew from its branches.” The tree shattered when it crashed back down onto the lake’s surface near his boat. Then, there was a deafening silence. The sounds of the birds singing, the distant dog’s barking, even the sound of the breeze rustling the leaves in the trees had stopped.
As Ronald looked around in stunned silence, he realized that he had survived. Tuffy was also visibly shaken but uninjured. He thought about what he had just witnessed and understood how lucky he was once again. He had spent much of his youth in juvenile detention centers, and as a young adult, he had survived a stint in the notorious San Quentin prison. Ronald concluded that if the trajectory of that hurtling waterlogged tree had been slightly different, he would have been killed, and the cause would have remained a mystery. After his shocking fishing trip, Ronald returned to work performing his hit songs including “Mama Tried,” “Workin’ Man Blues,” and “Okie From Muskogee.” You see, Ronald was the middle name of Merle Haggard.
The tattered remains of a balloon, its silver string dangling over a flowerpot in my backyard, caught my attention one early morning before Halloween.
(Surreally speaking, Sir Isaac Newton, attired in the Dickensian tatters during his ghostly visit by means of balloon ex machina, drove home the laws of “What goes up must come down,” illustrating the laws of motion governing the heavenly bodies. And also the earthly ones.)
And my heart leaped for the image of Banksy’s ‘Girl with Balloon’ inscribed with the phrase – THERE IS ALWAYS HOPE.
I hope that the child, assuming that it was a child, who lost her or his grip on the silver string of the balloon, knows that there is always hope. And I hope that the child’s guardian is there to remind the child that there is always hope. For “The Child [without hope] is Father of the [lost] Man.”
“However, beyond its scientific significance, this quote can also serve as a catalyst for philosophical contemplation.” (The Socratic Method)
William Shakespeare’s “Seven Ages of Man” is a vivid illustration of the “What goes up must come down” pertaining to human being from its “Mewling and puking” infancy to its last stage of “second childishness and mere oblivion”, completing the cyclical nature of our being.
“What goes up must come down” underscores the Hindu concept of incarnation. What dies must be born again. And again.
Given the philosophical twist of the Möbius strip of being, death is present in life, and life in death. It is similar to the Taoist concept of the union of Yin and Yang, two seemingly opposite forces.
Hence the chariot of life runs on the wheels of Dharma and Karma. Rebirth or Moksha depends on the Dharma and Karma working in tandem. Dharma propels the one with a clean Karmic slate out of the Möbius loop of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) on to the realm of deathlessness. It is called Nirvana in the Buddhist tradition
Here is an example of art copying the rhythm of life, in James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake’s concluding word is “the”, which sends the reader back to the beginning of the book, “riverrun”, connecting the loop, albeit a linear one. So to speak, Finnegan is born again.
Also, “What goes up must come down” is the beginning line of the 1st stanza of “Spinning Wheel”, the 1969 hit song by Blood, Sweat & Tears, a Jazz Rock Group. “Everything comes full circle” is the theme of “Spinning Wheel” song.
Finally, let us abide by the love and warmth of our humanity, for we are the undying embers. Let us abide our time, for the Phoenix will rise again.
Joseph L. Efferson Service: Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 12 pm at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Natchitoches Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them tonpjnatla@gmail.com
The Diocese of Alexandria lists assets of $16.7 million and liabilities of $9.5 million in its bankruptcy petition filed October 31.
Seeking Chapter 11 reorganization, the diocese through its attorneys lists $7.8 million in unsecured claims.
Chapter 11 stays action against a debtor, allowing time for reorganization and court assessment of payment demands.
Bishop Robert N. Marshall Jr. in a letter to parishioners said the 93-page petition seeks a global settlement with those who seek remuneration as a result of alleged clergy sexual incidents.
More than half the 85 identified complaints, by the alleged victims or on their behalf, as of the filing stem from the 1970s or earlier.
A final number will not be known until the court, Chief Bankruptcy Judge John S. Hodges, U.S. Western District of Louisiana, presiding, sets a claims deadline.
It has been previously reported that diocesan officials thought it could pay up to $4 million to resolve the matter and remain solvent.
The diocese a year ago confirmed it and 40 other organizations were working to reach a global settlement before any filing, as a result avoiding extensive delays and legal fees.
(The diocese estimates legal fees of the current matter to be $1 million to $2 million.) A mediator hired by that consortium worked with six attorney groups to reach agreement to stay civil proceedings while negotiating proceeded.
In the interim staggering award numbers have occurred in several jurisdictions, most recently New Orleans, where $230 million is in play.
(An aside: Alexandria attorney Richard Arsenault is court-appointed reviewer of the New Orleans individual claim awards under a points system.) Status of the Alexandria mediation effort has not been disclosed.
Unsecured claims listed in the Diocesan filing include $7.1 million for priest retirement, health insurance and burial benefits and $626,000 guarantee of a loan to Holy Savior Menard Central High.
In addition to the primary petition the filing includes 21 motions, mostly relating to enrollment of counsel, agent for eventual distribution, financial management and the like.
Bradley L. Drell, of Alexandria’s Gold Weems, is counsel. Also enrolled is national firm Husch Blackwell LLP, three of its partners and a senior counsel.
The filings include a proposed interim order, a proposed final order and disclosure of compensation, none of which is viewable online without subscription to the court-approved information system.
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives are reporting that Ernest Lard, 50, wanted by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, was captured this afternoon in Red River Parish by Red River Parish Sheriff’s Deputies.
Lard was wanted by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office for 1 count of First Degree Rape in connection with an ongoing sexual assault investigation being conducted by NPSO Detectives in Campti. No further information will be released at this time to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Lard is currently being held in the Red River Parish Jail pending his transfer to Natchitoches Parish.
Sheriff Stuart Wright expressed his appreciation for the assistance provided by the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office and the public, stating:
“We want to thank Sheriff Glen Edwards and his deputies for their excellent cooperation and quick response in locating and apprehending this suspect. We also appreciate the members of the public who provided helpful information during the course of this investigation. Working together, we were able to bring this case one step closer to justice.”
If you have any information you would like to share, contact Detective Sgt. Matthew Robertson at 318-357-7830.
The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO) has confirmed that a woman arrested following Wednesday’s 38-mile pursuit on Interstate 49 was using a false identity and is actually a fugitive wanted in Alabama for two counts of attempted murder and arson.
NPSO received a tip on Oct. 31 from a concerned citizen revealing that the female suspect, who initially identified herself as Charidi S. Lopez, is in fact Terry Jo Richardson, 41, of Birmingham, Alabama. Richardson remains in custody at the Rapides Parish Detention Center in Alexandria.
NPSO deputies and communications operators relayed the information to Louisiana State Police Troop E, whose investigators confirmed Richardson’s true identity using the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS). A National Crime Information Center (NCIC) check then revealed her active Alabama warrants.
Louisiana State Police have since added charges of Misrepresentation During Booking, Interfering with the Duties of State Police, and Criminal Obstruction of Justice.
The case began on the morning of Oct. 29 when NPSO Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby, conducting a special speed enforcement detail, attempted to stop a 2015 GMC Yukon traveling southbound on I-49 near mile marker 132 for speeding 88 mph in a 75 mph zone.
When Cpl. Kerby exited her patrol vehicle, the driver made a hand gesture and fled, initiating a 38-mile pursuit that reached speeds exceeding 100 mph. The suspect vehicle struck multiple guardrails, exited and re-entered the interstate several times, and eventually entered Rapides Parish.
Louisiana State Police Troopers successfully deployed a tire deflation device near Rapides Station, after which the Yukon overturned and came to rest on the interstate. Both the driver and passenger fled on foot but were quickly apprehended by troopers without further incident.
Both suspects sustained minor injuries and were treated at an Alexandria hospital before being booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center.
The passenger, identified as Wilbur L. Heard Jr., also of Birmingham, Alabama, was found to have outstanding warrants in Alabama and faces extradition, along with additional State Police charges. Sheriff Stuart Wright commended the interagency cooperation that led to the safe conclusion of the pursuit and the identification of a dangerous fugitive.
“This investigation demonstrates the professionalism and persistence of our deputies and partners at Louisiana State Police and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Wright. “Thanks to their teamwork, a dangerous individual wanted for serious crimes in another state has been taken off the streets.”
The Adai Caddo Indian Nation hosted its 27th Annual Powwow in Robeline, Natchitoches Parish on October 18, 2025. The powwow is the largest festival in Robeline drawing thousands of attendees from across the country and as far away as Russia and Australia.
The day started with an 8:00 AM mass at the Los Adaes State Historic Site sponsored by the Cane River National Heritage Area. The presidio at Los Adaes, originally called Nuestra Señora del Pilar de los Adaes, was the first capital of Texas and it’s mission was the first Catholic mission in present-day Louisiana. The first mass was held there over 300 years ago. Both the presidio and mission are named for the Adai Caddo Indians (Los Adaes translates to the Adai).
Father Louis Sklar (a native of Natchitoches Parish) presided over the mass with a congregation consisting of the descendants of the original French, Spanish, and Native American settlers. Assisting Father Sklar as lector was John Mark Davis, Chief of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation.
“We were honored to attend mass at Los Adaes, a historically significant site for all people of Louisiana and Texas,” said Robert Brevelle, Tribal Councilman of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation. “Over 300 years ago, our ancestors welcomed the Spanish and French explorers. We asked our guests to build a mission so that we may worship and learn the teachings of Jesus Christ. That mission was the first Catholic mission in present-day Louisiana and named for our people [San Miguel de Linares de los Adaes]. The presidio [Los Adaes] and the second mission in Louisiana, built nearby, was also named for our people [San Miguel de Cuellar de los Adaes]. The presidio served as the first capital of Texas for nearly 50 years. And at last week’s mass, the lineal descendants of the Indigenous peoples and the Spanish and French pioneers gathered to worship. We are cousins sharing a common history, bloodline, and faith.”
The powwow was held at the Adai Caddo Cultural Center located five miles north of Los Adaes. The 80-acre complex includes a museum and ceremonial grounds. The powwow is free and open to the public. The family friendly event includes arts and craft vendors, musicians, and dancers from across the country. Father Sklar blessed the grounds at 10:00 AM and the festivities went until 4:00 PM.
Vice Chief Deb Garrett received the Chief Rufus Davis Jr. award, the Adai Caddo Indian Nation’s highest honor. The award is presented to individuals whose selfless service and actions are above and beyond all others, contributing to the protection and advancement of the tribe, its members, and legacy.
Liz Niette Williams, Patricia Niette Gilcrease, and Sandra Arthur received the Tribal Council Award for their outstanding leadership, volunteerism, and service to the tribe.Harper Danielle Davis was crowned Adai Caddo Princess by the Council of Elders, and she will represent the tribe at powwows, festivals, and other events.
In attendance and participating in the gourd dance was Chief Tom Rivers and Vice Chief Jake Rivers of the Choctaw Apache Tribe of Ebarb. Chief Rivers is also the Chairman of the Louisiana Native American Commission.
“The powwow was held historically for many purposes,” said John Mark Davis, Chief of the Adai Caddo Indian Nation. “Traditionally powwows would have been held several times a year for different purposes such as war, harvest, honor and prayer for a successful harvest or a successful hunt. Today we celebrate our powwow to honor these traditions and demonstrate our heritage with dances, crafts and traditional food.
This year’s powwow was a great success, and even extra special, thanks to the Cane River heritage group for arranging a Mass lead by Father Louis Sklar at one of the first missions and one of our original villages, at Los Adaes for El Camino Real day.
The following day, the Adai Caddo held their annual meeting at the Cultural Center. Adai Caddo Paul Vercher of Old Henly Knife & Tool Co. presented gifts of tomahawk calumets (peace pipes) to Chief John Mark Davis, Vice Chief Deb Garrett, and Councilman Robert Brevelle. Paul hand forged the tomahawks from steel salvaged from a 19th century wagon wheel found on the family’s Texas ranch. Paul did all of the woodwork and leatherwork himself. One of the calumets will be used next year at a ceremony for the Adai Caddo and the Spanish government.
Northwestern State University’s School of Allied Health announces the appointments of Rebecca Farmer, MSRS, RT(R)(M), as School of Allied Health department head and Megan Wedgeworth as program director of the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences.
NSU’s School of Allied Health houses the university’s programs in undergraduate radiologic science and diagnostic medical sonography and prepares highly skilled professionals who play vital roles across the healthcare system. Graduate programs are available in radiologic science and allied health. There are two online bachelor’s completion programs offered in radiologic science and allied health as well. The school also offers certificate programs in invasive cardiovascular, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Farmer is a tenured associate professor at NSU’s School of Allied Health. She completed her radiologic technology education at NSU in 1993, then obtained her master’s from Midwestern State University in 2003 and is currently enrolled at Louisiana Tech in the doctoral program for educational leadership. Farmer has been active with national and state radiologic science organizations and has presented and published locally and nationally many times. She is married with four children and two grandchildren. In her spare time, Farmer is active in her church and enjoys hunting, fishing, scrapbooking and traveling with her family.
“It is an honor to be named department head of such a distinguished program with talented faculty,” Farmer said. “I am excited about the future and look forward to expanding and enhancing the outstanding programs within our School of Allied Health.”
Wedgeworth graduated from NSU in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) degree and worked at North Caddo Medical Center for two years before going to Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, where she spent over nine years doing diagnostic and computed tomography. She joined NSU as a clinical adjunct instructor in January 2021 and was hired as an assistant professor in October 2021. She served as clinical coordinator from January 2023 until she was promoted to the BSRS program director position.
“I am excited to be named the new BSRS program director for the School of Allied Health. I am looking forward to the potential growth of our BSRS degrees,” she said.
NSU’s School of Allied Health equips students with the knowledge, clinical training and professional competencies necessary to excel in today’s healthcare environment. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement and workforce development, the School partners with regional healthcare providers to ensure students gain real-world experience while serving the needs of patients and communities. Alumni of the School of Allied Health are recognized for their expertise, leadership and compassionate care, making a meaningful impact in hospitals, clinics, academic learning centers and beyond.
Kolbe Burrell led Northwestern State’s rushing attack with 57 yards in Saturday’s loss at McNeese. (NSU photo by CHRIS REICH)
LAKE CHARLES – Visiting its Southland Conference rival for the first time in four years, Northwestern State was unable to slow McNeese’s running game as the Cowboys built a sizeable halftime lead en route to a 50-3 victory Saturday night at refurbished Navarre Stadium.
“There wasn’t a lot of good today,” second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle said. “That was probably the most disappointing loss since we’ve been here. I thought we had a really good week of practice, and I thought our kids came in feeling good and confident. When the game got going, it got away from us in a hurry. It shows just how far we have to go.”
The Demons (1-8, 0-5) overcame a first-play interception to take a first-quarter lead for the second straight week as Kaden Mackey’s interception two plays later and subsequent 39-yard return gave Northwestern possession at the McNeese 26.
Camryn Davis’ 4-yard rush on third-and-1 moved the Demons inside the McNeese 15 before Northwestern settled for Grayson Lytton’s 33-yard field goal.
From there, McNeese (3-6, 2-3) turned to its running game to take control.
Led by quarterback Jake Strong, the Cowboys rolled up 244 first-half rushing yards with all four of their first-half touchdowns coming on the ground – including a pair from their quarterbacks.
The first score came when Coleby Hamm bulled in from the 1-yard line on a fourth and goal after Northwestern snuffed out a third-down jump pass from backup quarterback Devin Lippold.
Strong added a 35-yard scoring run while Lippold scored from 2 yards out, sandwiching those scores around a 10-yard touchdown run by Tre’Vonte Citizen.
While McNeese found its offensive rhythm on the ground, the Demons struggled to extend drives in the first half until Kolbe Burrell broke a 38-yard run just ahead of the two-minute timeout. Burrell followed that explosive play with a 14-yard run that helped give Northwestern its deepest drive of the night.
However, the Demons could not convert a fourth down, seeing its drive end at the McNeese 19-yard line.
“Physically, we got dominated,” McCorkle said. “We’re too small and too young right now to hold up against a team of that size and stature. McNeese, just like they’ve been for a hundred years, is a big, big, massive physical football team. You have to be able to hold up, and on both sides of the line of scrimmage, we weren’t able to do that. We weren’t able to generate much in the run game inside, which hurt us, and our defensive line struggled to hold up for four quarters against their offensive line.”
The Demons were able to slow the Cowboys’ ground attack in the second half, allowing 69 yards, but McNeese used its quick-passing game to pick up the slack.
McNeese found success with pop passes, including a 23-yard touchdown from Jonathan Harris.
Northwestern could not get its offense untracked after halftime as the Demons compiled 64 of their 178 yards in the final two quarters. That came a week after Northwestern put together a season-best total offense performance against then-No. 15 Lamar, posting 307 yards against the 15th-ranked Cardinals.
“Last week against Lamar, we didn’t win the game and we lost by a decent score, but there were some things that gave us some confidence,” McCorkle said. “You couple that with people telling them McNeese wasn’t very good. We’re not mature enough to handle those two things right now, and we didn’t handle those two things tonight. We have to go back to work and do a lot better, because what happened tonight is not acceptable.”
The Demons return to action at home Saturday when they host UIW. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. inside Turpin Stadium.
November 15, 2025 Municipal General Election Polling Places Open at 7 AM and Close at 8 PM
ELECTION: CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 11 (20 YRS.) RENEWAL
(13) Precincts Include: part of 1-9A (held at NCHS), part of 3-5 Provencal School, 3-6 Provencal Village Hall, part of 3-8 Los Adias, 3-9 Bellwood, 3-10 Vowell’s Mill, part of 4-1 Cypress, part of 4-3 Melrose, part of 4-4 Cloutierville, 4-5 Montett’s Ferry, 4-6 Gorum, 4-7 Kisatchie, and 4-8 Flora
Early voting in the Registrar of Voters office began Nov. 1 and will run through Saturday, Nov. 8 from 8:30 AM – 6 PM (Closed on Sunday, Nov. 2). The ROV Office is located inside the Court House (RM #103) at 200 Church Street in Natchitoches.
Absentee Voting by mail is intended for voters who will be out of the parish on Election Day and the week of Early Voting, or if the person is over 65 years of age, or has a mobility impaired ID card (must provide copy). Fax request to: 318-357-2212 or Mail to: Registrar of Voters, P.O. Box 677, Natchitoches, LA 71457-0677.
Deadline to make a written request for an Absentee Ballot by mail – Nov. 12, 2025 at 4:30 PM. Written Request Forms can be downloaded at http://www.sos.la.gov under “ELECTIONS” click on the “VOTE” LINK; Click on “VOTE BY MAIL” on application to vote by mail.
Your written request must include: Voters Name, Voters Natchitoches Parish Address, Voters Date of Birth, Voters Social Security Number or Drivers License Number, Reason the ballot is being requested, Election Date (Nov. 15, 2025), Address to where ballot is to be mailed, and Voter Signature.
Ballots must be returned to the Registrar of Voters Office by mail, by 4:30 PM on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. Military and Overseas: Ballots must be returned to the Registrar of Voters Office by mail or by fax before Noon on Election Day.
The Northwestern State University Faculty Woodwind Quintet concert originally scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.
The recital will be rescheduled for the spring semester, and updated details will be announced once finalized.
The quintet extends its gratitude to the community for its continued support and understanding and looks forward to welcoming audiences to future concerts and recitals in the spring.
Several Natchitoches Central High School seniors attended Pilot Preview Day on Oct. 31 at Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS), gaining firsthand experience of college life and the opportunities awaiting them after graduation.
Throughout the day, students toured the campus, met with LSUS faculty and current students, and learned about academic programs, financial aid options, and student organizations. The visit offered valuable insight into university life while encouraging students to envision their own paths forward.
The trip was organized through the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program, which focuses on preparing students for life after high school through exposure, exploration, and empowerment.
“It was inspiring to see our seniors engaging with university staff and imagining their futures,” said the JAG specialist. “Their excitement about the possibilities ahead reminds me why these experiences are so meaningful.”
The NCHS students proudly represented their school with curiosity, enthusiasm, and excellence as they took this important step toward their next chapter.
Joseph L. Efferson Service: Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 12 pm at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville
Natchitoches Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or npjnatla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them tonpjnatla@gmail.com
A Louisiana judge has ordered the suspension of all board member access to the financial accounts of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation following allegations of unauthorized transactions and missing documentation.
Judge Jimmie C. Peters of the 10th Judicial District Court signed the order Oct. 13, granting sole access to court-appointed special master Christopher M. Sylvia. The ruling comes in an ongoing lawsuit filed by Citizens of Democratic Action Inc. and Helen Obioha against the foundation.
According to court documents filed by Sylvia, a CPA hired by the foundation discovered debit card transactions and cash withdrawals from an NCIF checking account that lacked supporting records or documentation. Mark Thomas, the accountant, had been retained to analyze financial records and prepare tax returns for the period from January 2019 to the present.
The motion states that despite requests for documentation to explain the purchases and withdrawals, no records were provided to account for the transactions.
Under the new order, no board member of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation may access any bank account, investment account or funds belonging to the organization. Only Sylvia has been authorized to access accounts and financial records.
The court also ordered that any investment brokers, financial institutions, banks or other entities holding NCIF funds may only release property to third parties as instructed by Sylvia. He now has signing authority on behalf of the foundation.
Sylvia’s motion noted that he had previously controlled all NCIF funds but had turned over control to the newly elected board. The special master was appointed by the court as part of the litigation between the community organization and the foundation.
The case is docketed as number 94091B in Natchitoches Parish. Attorneys Connor L. Dillon, Jeffery H. Thomas and Alan Pesnell are copied on the order.
A letter dated Sept. 2 from Peters to the Natchitoches Parish clerk of court indicates the executed order was sent electronically to avoid the need for formal service, though counsel were notified.
The foundation could not immediately be reached for comment.
BOARD MEMBERS
According to a May 2025 order filed in the case, the following individuals were identified as board members or representatives of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation:
Earnestine Armstrong Takesha Barnum Harold Bayonne Sr. Marvin Blake Jr. Linda Franklin Brenda Milner Helen Obioba Tan’Keia Palmer Rene Porter Deborah Roque Ernest Sawyer Kevin Stafford Jerry Walters Yvette Williams Davin White
The court order suspending board access to financial accounts applies to all board members of the organization.
A traffic stop and 38-mile vehicle pursuit that ended in a single-vehicle crash on I-49 near Rapides Station in Rapides Parish resulted in the arrests of a male and female suspect, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright. It began on Oct. 29, around 10:30 a.m., when NPSO Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby, working a special speed enforcement detail, attempted to stop a 2015 GMC Yukon traveling southbound on I-49 near mile marker #132 for speeding 88 miles per hour in a posted 75 mph zone.
When Cpl. Kerby exited her patrol unit and attempted to make contact with the female driver, the driver fled the scene. A pursuit ensued southbound on I-49. Louisiana State Police Troop-E (Alexandria) was contacted to assist, along with additional NPSO deputies. The pursuit continued southbound, reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph. The suspect vehicle avoided a tire deflation device deployed by deputies north of Chopin, exited the interstate at Chopin, then re-entered I-49 and exited again at Lena. Deputies reported the vehicle struck several guardrails during the pursuit.
The pursuit entered Rapides Parish, where Louisiana State Police Troopers successfully deployed a tire deflation device near Rapides Station. The vehicle continued a short distance before the driver apparently lost control, causing the Yukon to overturn and come to rest in the right lane of the interstate.
Following the crash, a male and female fled on foot down an embankment, crossing a ditch and fence before being taken into custody by Louisiana State Police Troopers without further incident.
Both suspects were transported by Pafford Ambulance to an Alexandria hospital for treatment of minor injuries and later released.
As a result of the investigation:
•Charidi S. Lopez, 44, of Mission, Texas, the driver, was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on Louisiana State Police charges.
She also faces the following Natchitoches Parish charges: Speeding 88/75 Speeding 100+/75 No Seat Belt Aggravated Flight from an Officer
•Wilbur L. Heard Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama, the passenger, was found to be wanted in Alabama on outstanding warrants. Heard was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on those warrants and additional State Police charges.
Louisiana State Police Troop-E Troopers investigated the crash. When questioned by deputies about her decision to flee, Lopez reportedly stated she “didn’t want Heard to go to jail.”
Sheriff Stuart Wright commended the professionalism and teamwork displayed by all responding agencies.
“This incident shows the dangers our deputies and state troopers face daily when motorists choose to flee instead of complying with lawful orders,” said Sheriff Wright. “We’re grateful for the seamless coordination and support from the Louisiana State Police and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office in bringing this pursuit to a safe conclusion.”
The investigation is continuing. Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby was assisted by Deputy Lt. M. Powell, Deputy Sgt. C. Olliff, Louisiana State Police, Troop-E Troopers and Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office. Mugshots are currently unavailable while they remain in the Rapides Parish Detention Center.
Kelton Howard and the NCHS Chiefs scored an impressive win on the road Thursday night in Shreveport. (Journal photo by GAVEN HAMMOND, landgphoto.com)
Natchitoches 34 Huntington 14
SHREVEPORT – The Natchitoches Central Chiefs football team notched a key District 1-5A victory over Huntington Thursday night at Independence Stadium, with 20 unanswered second-half points fueling a 33-14 win over the Raiders.
NCHS improved to 5-4 overall and 3-4 in the district with one regular-season game remaining, next Friday at Benton (2-7, 1-6).
Huntington fell to 3-6 overall, 3-4 in district.
The win will boost the Chiefs’ LHSAA power ranking, as would a victory next Friday, as other bubble teams lose. The Chiefs were not among the state’s top 24 in Non-Select Division I before beating the Raiders, and the two dozen highest-ranked teams reach the playoffs.
NCHS overcame four turnovers to win. Senior quarterback Owen Smith ran for touchdowns of 12 and 2 yards and threw a 14-yard scoring pass to Demarcus Nicholas. Chiefs’ workhorse Kelton Howard ran for a 4-yard TD and Kaden Kuykendoll scored on a 14-yard scamper.
The Natchitoches Police Department would like to encourage parents and children to follow the following safety tips while trick-or-treating for Halloween.
Only trick-or-treat during the City’s observed hours of 5-8 p.m.
Children should trick-or-treat in groups or with a responsible adult.
Realistic replica firearms should never be used.
Children should always use the sidewalk, not the street for walking and should look in all directions before crossing the street. If walking on the street is necessary, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
Parents should know what route their children will be taking.
Only approach a home with the porch light lit.
Children should never accept rides from strangers.
Children should never eat any treats until they have been examined.
Additional officers will patrol neighborhoods so everyone can have a safe and happy Halloween.
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.
