Jessica Spitzer scored her first goal of the season, but a late goal from UL Lafayette handed the Northwestern State soccer team a 1-1 draw Sunday evening at the Demon Soccer Complex.

“I think that’s a fair result,” head coach Ian Brophy said. “I thought it was a pretty even match, back-and-forth. We took advantage of our set piece and got in front. I would have liked to see us close out the game, but (UL Lafayette) had a great goal to tie it up in the last couple minutes.

“That is the hard part, when you’re a couple minutes away, you want to see it out, and we were close to doing that. We have to look at the things we can improve upon in how we end games, but I am overall happy with the performance.”

NSU (4-1-2) scored on a scramble in the 72nd minute by Spitzer following the corner kick from Emma Pethel, who recorded her sixth career assist and second this season.

“Jess is a really good finisher for a center back,” Brophy said. “She is a goal scorer on corner kick situations, so I wasn’t surprised to see her get on the end of it.”

It looked like it was going to be the difference until UL Lafayette (3-3-1) scored in the 89th minute off a perfectly placed shot off the foot of Miku Kurihara from the left side of the box to tie it at 1-1.

It was just the second goal surrendered by NSU in the last five contests.

The Ragin’ Cajuns had chances to score and take the win in the final minute and a half, but the Demons defense stood tall and emerged with the tie.

After the Demons goal, ULL recorded eight of their 12 second half shots and 21 shots overall as the Ragin’ Cajuns pushed to try to score the equalizer, which they ended up scoring.

ULL led in shots 21-8, including 12-2 in the second half.

Despite the fact that the Ragin’ Cajuns scored late, redshirt freshman goalkeeper Audrey Marfia had a second consecutive sensational showing, stopping seven shots overall, including seven in the second half, many of which kept NSU in front.

“She was fantastic,” Brophy said. “She made some really big saves that helped keep us in the match. I was really excited to see her performance with those big saves, which was encouraging in terms of what she can do this year and what she’s been working on. That was awesome to watch.”

The Demons head to Abilene Christian on Thursday for the last non-conference game before Southland Conference play begins with a trip to UTRGV on Sept. 18.

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MINNEAPOLIS – The fast start the Northwestern State football team experienced in its season-opening win flipped sides in Week 2.

The Demons’ first trip to face a Big Ten opponent saw homestanding Minnesota score on a pick six on the first play of scrimmage and use that momentum to deliver a 66-0 victory inside Huntington Bank Stadium in a game that ended with 6:15 remaining because of a combination of a looming weather delay and Northwestern’s return trip to Natchitoches.

“The score is what it is,” second-year NSU coach Blaine McCorkle said. “You play these games, and sometimes these things get sideways in a hurry, but we didn’t do anything to help ourselves. Of all the things you take away from the day, 28 points in the first half came directly from turnovers. Then we have a really selfish penalty that hurt us in the red zone and put them in scoring position.

“Yeah, they’re bigger, stronger and faster than us – it’s Big Ten football – but when you play these games, you have to be clean, and we weren’t clean in the first half in those moments. That let the game get away from us maybe a little more than it should.”

One week after winning the turnover battle with a plus-2 margin, Northwestern (1-1) committed two first-quarter turnovers that resulted in touchdowns for the Golden Gophers (2-0).

John Nestor’s 29-yard interception return on the first play of the game was the first of two first-quarter defensive touchdowns for Minnesota, which capped its 35-point opening-quarter surge with a 25-yard fumble return score by Matt Kingsbury.

Two more turnovers deep inside Northwestern territory helped the Golden Gophers extend the lead to 59-0 at halftime. The Demons were minus-four in the turnover battle in the first half, which tied their worst final-game margin of the 2024 season.

After committing four first-half turnovers, the Demons collected their third end-zone interception in the first two games of the season in the third quarter when Troy Santa Marina snagged a Dylan Wittke pass. Dating to the 2024 season, five of the Demons’ past six interceptions have come in the end zone.

“Our best moments came defensively late in the game,” McCorkle said. “Troy had the pick in the end zone, and I’m so happy for him. He’s a walk-on who has fought his butt off to do things right and figure things out. Then to have the goal-line stand late showed the character of our team.”

Northwestern’s defense continued to build on the momentum started by Santa Marina’s interception, keeping the Golden Gophers off the scoreboard in the fourth quarter.

Included in the stronger fourth-quarter defensive performance were the first career sack from Natchitoches native Braden Woods and a fourth-down stop at the 2-yard line on the final play of the game before severe weather worked its way into the Twin Cities.

“Success is defined by improvement,” McCorkle said. “Even with the score today – opponent aside – we’re an improved football team. Last year, we played a much lesser FBS team than this and got beat a whole lot worse. The sideline didn’t like feel it did today. The energy didn’t feel like it did today. We’ve come a long way from those things last year.”

The Demons next week travel to Cincinnati to face the Big XII Conference Bearcats in a 2:30 p.m. CDT game on Saturday at Nippert Stadium. They are not home again until Oct. 4’s homecoming game.

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RoyOMartin has unveiled a new line for its popular TuffStrand™ line of oriented strand board (OSB) sheathing products. TuffStrand Weather Resistant Barrier™ (TuffStrand-WRB™) is a structural OSB panel with a factory-applied weather-resistant barrier, intended for applications requiring a structural panel and ideally suited for exterior walls.

Designed for use with special seam tape, TuffStrand-WRB™ installs faster and eliminates the need for traditional house wrap. Rather than applying a separate house wrap, builders can reduce labor time and cost by installing this system. Additionally, it is available in 8’ and extended lengths to save more time and money.

“With Tuffstrand WRB™, you’ll get a distinctive cover that stands out from all the rest,” states RoyOMartin President and Chief Operating Officer E. Scott Poole. “You get the benefit of a protective wrap without having the cost of the material or the time it takes to apply. By producing this product, RoyOMartin is enabling builders to work more efficiently while maintaining the quality and reliability they expect from our products.”

In wall applications, Tuffstrand WRB™ panels install with the foil or weather-resistant barrier facing outward. Seams and corners are taped with a multi-purpose acrylic tape that provides a consistent seal and durable, long-lasting results. The tape’s superior acrylic compound and intertwined fibers combine to create a durable bond.

TuffStrand-WRB™ is engineered for performance, safety, and efficiency, ensuring that we deliver a product that not only meets the needs of today’s construction industry but also showcases the craftsmanship of our team members.

As with all RoyOMartin products, we maintain the highest level of quality in both production and handling. Every panel we make reflects on our craftsmanship and reputation in the industry.

Learn more about TuffStrand-WRB™ on our website: royomartin.com/product/tuffstrand-wrb

About RoyOMartin
RoyOMartin is the trade name of a group of forestry-related and wood-products manufacturing companies based in Alexandria, La. The company operates manufacturing facilities that employ approximately 1,400 in Oakdale, La., in Chopin, La., and Corrigan, Texas. For more information, visit http://www.royomartin.com.

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The Omojo Percussion Duo will conclude their Fall 2025 tour at Northwestern State University on Friday, Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall. Admission is free and open to the public. A livestream will be available at nsula.edu/capa/capalivestream.

The duo is NSU faculty member Dr. Oliver Molina and Dr. Joe W. Moore III, who teaches at the University of Texas at Arlington. The duo will visit West Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, the University of Oklahoma, and East Central University in Oklahoma before performing at Northwestern.

They will perform percussion duets from a multi-movement work for marimbas by Marc Mellits, a piece for wah-wah tubes by Juri Seo and three works by Moore.

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A landmark Natchitoches restaurant overlooking the lake is now for sale, offering a unique opportunity for business owners to own a piece of the city’s history. The waterfront establishment features an elegant dining room for fine dining, a chef’s table on a private island, dock access for guests arriving by water, and a separate bar and grill for a more casual experience.

Jena Regan of Ellis Realty MS Gulf Coast is representing the property. Interested buyers can view the listing on LoopNet online at loopnet.com/Listing/5948-Highway-1-Byp-Natchitoches-LA/37442544 or contact Regan at 318-393-2259.

The restaurant has long been a cherished local spot, hosting everything from high school date nights and post-church lunches to family Christmas gatherings. Its lakeside atmosphere, sunset views, and memorable evenings have made it a fixture in the community. Now, the iconic location is ready for its next chapter under new ownership.

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The Natchitoches Parish Journal’s High School Pick ‘Em contest has launched its new season with a resounding show of community support, as an impressive 652 ballots were cast in the opening week. The overwhelming participation demonstrates that local football fans are eager to test their prognostication skills while supporting area high school teams.

A Simple Format with Big Appeal

The contest’s success lies in its accessibility and community focus. Participants have until Thursday at 4 p.m. each week to make their predictions on 10 high school football games featuring local teams including Natchitoches Central, Lakeview, St. Mary’s, and other schools of regional interest. The user-friendly format takes just 20-30 seconds to complete, with participants simply clicking to select winning teams for each matchup.

One game serves as a tiebreaker, where contestants predict the total points scored. Should multiple participants tie for the most correct picks, the winner is determined by whoever comes closest to the actual total without going over.

Free Competition, Real Rewards

What makes the contest particularly attractive is that there’s no entry fee – staying true to the Natchitoches Parish Journal’s commitment to free community engagement, just like their no-cost subscription model. Each week throughout the football season, one participant will win $100 for their picking prowess, with winners announced in the Journal as the next week’s contest launches.

Every participant who isn’t already subscribed receives a complimentary subscription to the Journal’s convenient 6:55 a.m. daily email, further connecting the community with local news and sports coverage.

Community Partnership

The contest operates with support from local business partners including NRMC, Down Home Sausage, Family Farm & Garden, and Kathy Richmond – ReMax-Natchitoches, showcasing the community-wide investment in local high school athletics.

Cash in for $100 by picking weekly high school football winners

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Paid Editorial Feature – The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of the Natchitoches Parish Journal.

Last week, I published the first installment of How Credit Unions Are Draining Louisiana Communities. Today, I am providing a more detailed article outlining the direct and measurable impacts that credit unions purchasing banks in Louisiana will have on local governments.

Louisiana is somewhat unique in the way banks are taxed. In our state, both C-Corp and S-Corp banks are subject to a corporate tax, based on the bank’s capital and income, called the Bank Shares Tax. Under this system, banks in Louisiana pay taxes directly to the parishes, towns, and cities in which they operate. 100% of the Bank Shares Tax remains local—supporting schools, fire departments, police forces, infrastructure, and other vital public services.

Since credit unions are exempt from the Bank Shares Tax, any time a credit union acquires a bank in Louisiana, the local taxes that were once collected via the Bank Shares Tax disappear.

For many Louisiana municipalities, this tax loss can have devastating consequences.

My institution, BOM Bank, is headquartered in Natchitoches, LA, and holds approximately $1.4 billion in assets. We also maintain branches in several other towns, cities, and parishes across Central and Northwest Louisiana. Below are the actual Bank Shares Tax and property taxes BOM Bank paid in 2024. As you’ll see, these tax dollars stayed local, directly supporting the communities where our branches operate (SEE GRAPHIC BELOW).

Credit unions often argue that they pay payroll taxes, sales taxes, and in some cases, property taxes. However, every business—whether for-profit or not-for-profit—also pays payroll taxes. These support the Social Security Fund and the Unemployment Insurance Fund. In contrast, banks pay payroll taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, the Bank Shares Tax, and federal income taxes.

In Louisiana, credit unions can be taxed on their property, but this is entirely up to the discretion of each parish’s Tax Assessor. I encourage every reader to contact your local Tax Assessor and inquire: Are credit unions in your town, city, or parish paying property taxes? Or has your Tax Assessor decided to exempt them from these taxes?

In addition to the $1.1 million in local Bank Shares Taxes and property taxes paid in 2024, BOM Bank also paid approximately $4,050,000 in federal income taxes. As a reminder, credit unions do not pay federal income taxes. That brings our total tax contributions in 2024 to over $5,100,000, not including payroll and sales taxes.

Let me reiterate: if a credit union were to purchase a bank the size of BOM Bank, most (if not all of) the over $1.1 million in annual local tax revenue would vanish from the towns, cities, and parishes in which we operate—never to be collected again, as credit unions do not pay the Bank Shares Tax.

So what typically happens when a municipality loses a major portion of its tax base?

• Essential services are often cut.
• Vulnerable residents—such as schoolchildren, the elderly, and low-income families—are the most affected.
• Municipalities may be forced to raise taxes on residents and businesses to make up the shortfall.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Louisiana banks by credit unions isn’t just a business transaction—it’s a shift with long-lasting fiscal consequences for local governments and the communities they serve. The debate must extend beyond industry preferences and focus on the real cost to the public.

Ken Hale, President and CEO of BOM Bank

About BOM Bank: Established in 1903 in Montgomery, Louisiana, BOM Bank has grown from a local institution with $15,000 in capital to a community-focused bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Serving more than 32,500 customers across 26 branches in Louisiana and Texas, BOM Bank offers a range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment opportunities through its subsidiary, BOM Financial Services. With a deep commitment to community engagement and employee development, BOM Bank continues to build on its legacy of trust and service. Learn more at bofm.com or follow us on social media @bomest1903. BOM – a face you know, a bank you can trust.

Paid Content

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Notice is hereby given that the Natchitoches Parish School Board will receive the following:

 NPSB WAN and Internet Access

Bids/Proposals will be accepted until the date and time specified and will be publicly opened and read aloud at that time in the School Board’s Central Office, 310 Royal Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana, 71457-5709.

Please find bid-related documents and place electronic bids, is desired, at WWW.CENTRALBIDDING.COM.

For questions relating to the electronic bidding process, please call Central Bidding at 225-810-4814. Bids/Proposals received after the date and time of opening will not be considered. Facsimile transmissions will not be considered. Additional information may be obtained upon request by contacting Jordan Rowell, Purchasing Coordinator or, Mike Cozad, Supervisor of Technology at 318-352-23, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

08-07-25; 08-21-25; 09-04-25

NPSB Approved Notice of Bid Information Packages signed letter.

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During the final days leading up to my youngest daughter moving out of her childhood home and into a college dorm there were so many trivial chores that had to be completed. One morning before we began to tackle our to-do list, we decided that we needed a Lasyone’s Meat Pie Kitchen breakfast as encouragement to make it through the day. And it did not disappoint. Leaving the restaurant filled to the brim with potato stacks, meat pies, and orange juice, we were ready to tackle the day.

As we were walking out of the restaurant, we were discussing our next stop and agreeing that we were both full as ticks. Not paying attention, I stepped off the sidewalk and for some reason unbeknownst to me, I missed a step and began to fall to the ground. It truly happened in slow motion; I saw meat pies and speeding cars flash before my eyes. I thought I was going to regain my clumsy composure, but it didn’t happen. So, I ungracefully rolled into the street as if I were leaving a Pub after having too many drinks. Even at this moment, I cannot tell if my daughter was mortified or concerned.

After she laughed and laughed for way too long, she giggled my nickname loud enough where anyone could hear. “Reebs! Are you okay?”. Reebs was facedown on Second Street. Mama was down.

With as much grace and dignity as I could muster, I peeled myself off the ground and scanned around to make sure there wasn’t an audience. Once I knew we were alone I glanced down at my favorite leggings to make sure there were no holes, I wiped the gravel off my knees, hands and elbows and proceeded as if I didn’t just roll down the street like a low paid stunt woman. I absolutely forbade my daughter to ever mention it again. Ever. I wanted this embarrassment to be tucked away in the recesses of my mind.

That was, until God had other plans.

Not long after the great fall of mama, I found myself at Bid Day at Louisiana State University. My daughter participated in Rush, so it was time for her find out which house accepted the little girl who made fun of her dear mom falling into the street. As I stood on River Road with approximately two thousand other parents in the one hundred degrees heat, I was praying the sun would move so the shade could take over. There is no heat like Louisiana in August. It was so hot you could see parents scooting towards any shade they could find. While I was appreciating the shift of the sun and the sudden cool breeze, I heard a loud thud with simultaneous gasps soon followed by the obligatory, “Oh no’s” from the crowd.

I looked around only to notice another poor mom who had suffered my same meat pie day fate. Someone’s mama was down. It even appeared as though she tucked and rolled the same way I did.

It suddenly hit me. This was time to shine. With the speed of a much younger woman who has never fallen, I rushed over to her to help. She sheepishly tried to say she was fine but her face was a shade of red that only embarrassment could provide. I recognized that face. That was my face a week earlier. I took the time to brush the gravel off her back while she collected herself and reassured her family that she was not hurt. I looked her straight in the eyes and began to console her.

I said, “Look, your clothes are not torn, I wiped off all of the dirt, you will be fine. Your dignity is still on the ground, your hair is a mess and your confidence will be shaken for a few days but you got this. Don’t let this little incident keep you down, mama!” She looked at me with grateful but surprised eyes and said, “I really appreciate you.”

As I walked away, kind of feeling like a superhero, I was reminded of the goodness of God. He took my mini-drama of falling down on Second Street and used it to console someone who suffered the very same calamity. He used me to comfort the sweet sorority mom who fell in front of hundreds of strangers. (I may have thanked God that I fell only in front of my daughter and not the masses…but nonetheless…I was grateful the other mama that went down was unscathed)

God will never let us experience a tragedy that won’t be used for his glory. Every downfall (no pun intended) we face on earth can and will be used for the heavenly purpose of helping those that God puts in our path. Our Savior has the power to turn our little messes into someone else’s testimony. Like only he can. He put us on earth to share the love of Christ and carry each other’s burdens.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2

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The Natchitoches Junior High JAG program will host its 10th Annual Initiation & Installation Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 19 at 9 a.m. The event will take place in the Old Natchitoches Junior High School Gymnasium, located at 1621 Welch Street in Natchitoches.

The ceremony will honor the program’s new members and recognize the achievements of its dedicated student leaders. It celebrates the JAG program’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth through leadership development and community service.

Parents, community members, and supporters are invited to attend and help recognize the hard work and accomplishments of the students. The event marks a significant milestone for the program and highlights the continued growth of future leaders in the Natchitoches community.

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MINNEAPOLIS – A new chapter in Northwestern State football history will be written Saturday morning.

The Demons, fresh off a season-opening victory against Alcorn State, will square off with a member of the Big Ten Conference for the first time in program history when they tangle with Minnesota at 11 a.m. Saturday.

The game will be shown on Big Ten Network with the NSU radio broadcast at 100.7 FM KZBL in Natchitoches and through www.NSUDemons.com.

“Minnesota could care less (about the Demons’ season-opening win),” second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle said. “What it will be is an example of toughness. It’s going to take some mental toughness to put those things behind you. We can’t be patting ourselves on the back. Minnesota’s not worried about that.”

What the Golden Gophers (1-0) are is a bit of a mirror image of what McCorkle wants his 1-0 Demons to continue to be.

“You talk about tough, the Big Ten is tough, hard-nosed physical football, and I’m loving watching their film,” McCorkle said. “As an old offensive line coach, that’s what you live for – Big Ten football. Being an SEC homer – I’m that my whole life – but offensive lines in the Big Ten are real. They are big, and they can move, and they’re angry when they do it. They’re fun to watch. We have our work cut out for us.

“We’ve got to prepare to win a game like we would any other game. It will take some mental toughness and fortitude to do that.”

Northwestern showed plenty of those characteristics in its 20-10 season-opening win against Alcorn State on Aug. 28 – doing so in all three phases of the game.

A quick start gave the Demons a 13-0 first-quarter lead before a lightning delay paused the game for more than an hour. McCorkle told Director of Athletics Kevin Bostian during the delay the second-year coach felt his team had won the game in that moment.

Part of that McCorkle said was owed to his team’s character and maturity – which belies its standing as the youngest roster in the country.

“It all comes down to the preparation within the week, studying film, knowing our opponent better than we know ourselves” said safety Christian Williams, whose tipped-ball interception in the end zone was the No. 6 play on SportsCenter’s Top 10. “Throughout the delay, we knew as a leadership council we had to keep them focused and not joke around. We knew we were going to get back out there and handle business.”

Williams’ pick was one of two end-zone interceptions the Demons turned in, extending a run that began late in the 2024 season. Four of Northwestern’s past five interceptions have come in their opponent’s end zone.

While the Northwestern defense did its best bend-but-don’t-break impression, the Demon offense rode a roller coaster in the first 60 minutes of the season.

After a three-play, 66-yard march led to an opening-drive score, Northwestern did not gain more than 29 yards on its final five possessions of the first half and the first of the second half.

That changed with two third-quarter drives that saw the Demons stay on the field for 25 total plays, gaining 128 yards. The game changer was a 12-play, 68-yard sojourn that ended with a 1-yard Ryan Tyler touchdown that provided the final points of the game.

“As an O-line, it starts with us,” junior guard Isaiah Ybarra said. “We knew that going into the game, and that showed in the beginning. We faded once we got that delay, but we came back out and put that drive together.

“Before we got out there, we were saying, ‘It starts with us. We have to get our minds right, so everyone else’s minds are right.’ We just came back out with the mentality we started with. Now, we need to maintain it through the whole game.”

Doing so would give the Demons their best chance against a power-conference foe in Minnesota, which defeated Buffalo 23-10 on Aug. 28 in its season opener.

The mentality McCorkle said he wants from his team is permeating the roster as the Demons prepare for their first of back-to-back, power-conference foes. Following Saturday’s game, Northwestern will face Cincinnati on Sept. 13.

“We’re just trying to go there and win,” Williams said. “We’re not going there just for a trip, just to have fun and see the nice stadium. We’re going there to win.”

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Two first half goals in another offensive explosion lifted Northwestern State to a 3-0 women’s soccer victory at home against Grambling on Thursday evening at the Demon Soccer Complex.

It was the third straight game for NSU (4-1-1) where it scored at least three goals in a game and the fourth time in the team’s six contests.

The Demons received goals from Emily Senatore and Riley Stern in the first half to jumpstart the home team before Hosane Soukou nailed the door shut, finding the back of the net in the second half to create the final score.

“That goal from Emily got us into a groove,” head coach Ian Brophy said. “We started to grow into that rhythm even before the penalty, which is probably why we won it. We really started building off that. We were playing really well and then got the second goal.

“I told our team I thought there was another one out there in the second half and it was good to see us get that and put in a professional performance to finish the game.”

Each team had its share of opportunities in the first 20 minutes, but an unfortunate bounce for Grambling hit a Tigers player in the hand in her own box for a penalty kick for the Demons.

There was no doubt who would take it.

Senatore’s boot hit the right post before deflecting in to give NSU a 1-0 lead and her fifth goal of the season and 16th of her career.

“I knew I had it,” Senatore said. “We actually talked about this when we played them in the spring and had a penalty kick shootout. Coach Ian told me I wasn’t going to take one then since we were playing them in the fall, and it worked out perfectly.”

The offense didn’t let up from there, still putting pressure on Grambling (2-3-1).

The Demons outshot Grambling 12-4 in the first half and 19-12 for the game, as redshirt freshman goalkeeper Audrey Marfia made five saves to notch a shutout in her first start.

NSU is back in action Sunday evening at 6 when it hosts UL Lafayette to finish the home weekend.

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By MATT VINES, Journal Sports

When a coach enters his second season, there’s no need for introductory speeches, passing out new playbooks, or setting ground rules.

Natchitoches Central head coach Brad Laird finds himself in that position after a misleading 2-8 season in which the Chiefs lost four of those games by 11 points or less.

It’s the first time since 2022 that NCHS won’t be led by a new head coach – Jess Curtis coached his one and only season in 2023 with Laird debuting in 2024.

“It means a lot,” said senior defensive back Jeremy Lowe Jr. at a press conference for last weekend’s Battle on the Bricks jamboree. “Going through four years of playing and not having that stable coaching staff is hard.

“So it means a lot to have the same staff heading into this season.”

Reversing crucial errors at critical moments as well as generating just a few more plays each game could turn some of those losses into wins as NCHS aims for its first playoff appearance since 2021.

That journey starts tonight at 7 when the Chiefs welcome in Class 4A Breaux Bridge into Turpin Stadium.

NCHS’s 14-12 win at BBHS  in swampy conditions a year ago set a tone that the Chiefs could gut out close wins, but a trend didn’t materialize in the ultra-deep District 1-5A.

With quarterback Owen Smith back under center accompanied by a cadre of returning receivers and rushers, the Chiefs certainly expect to top their 14-point total from the 2024 opener.

Smith threw for nearly 2,500 yards and rushed for another 700 with 31 combined touchdowns, all that despite missing his top target Dillon Braxton for most of the season.

The only positive from Braxton’s absence (now graduated) is that a slew of young Chiefs’ pass catchers were thrown into the fire, and K.J. Newton, Jordan Carpenter and Mason Brittain lead a group that now has playing time under their belt.

Newton topped the 1,000-yard mark with 10 touchdowns.

NCHS would love to establish a consistent running game, and running back Kelton Howard is back after gaining more than 500 yards.

The offense was balanced in the 28-23 jamboree loss to Leesville as the Chiefs’ offensive line factored into a successful night.

The offensive line has some familiar faces like Kennedy Coutee and Cemarian McNeal that should provide continuity.

“I thought the offensive line did a great job, and both Kelton and Kayden Kuykendoll made some things happen running the football,” Laird said in an interview with Inside Natchitoches Sports. “And of course, Owen threw it well with the three touchdowns passes and was able to utilize his legs to create time in the pocket.

“I also thought receivers did a good job up front of providing protection.”

The defense doesn’t feature as many returners, but linebacker/safety Lowe Jr. and defensive end/linebacker Case Singletary should offer stability to a unit that allowed 35 or more points to five opponents this past season.

Injuries and illness impacted the Chiefs’ ability to limit big plays as Leesville gained chunk yardage throughout the jamboree.

Now NCHS hopes to heal in time to face a Breaux Bridge squad that’s putting the pieces back together after a two-win season in which they had a large senior class.

A destination along I-10 that cemented itself with deep playoff runs now will ask the majority of its starters to play both ways.

Isaiah LeBlanc is the Tigers’ most dangerous offensive weapon and could appear at receiver or quarterback.

Breaux Bridge’s defense is more experienced with a good number of players earning playing time, but can they hold up for four quarters in the early September heat?

Coach Tyler Pierce is in his second season and will try to reverse the 2024 result in which Laird took the win in both coaches’ debuts with their new programs.

“Tyler Pierce is a Natchitoches native, and for him to be able to come back home and play is a nice moment for him,” Laird said. “Schematically, you see a team that plays hard and with great effort.

“Breaux Bridge is starting to take advantage of opportunities presented to them. But we just have to make sure we’re well prepared to play no matter the opponent.”

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The monthly Young at Heart luncheon for seniors was held on September 3 at the First United Methodist Church.

Erin Boyt, Community Liaison for Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, presented an update on the Medical Center. She reported that NRMC received the highly-coveted Leap Frog Safety Rating in the spring of 2025 and that new, state-of-the-art MRI equipment is now operational at NRMC. Dr. Theodore Knatt, a newly-arrived orthopedic surgeon, spoke to the group about current treatment options that are available for arthritis.

September birthdays were celebrated by Betty Whitehead, Carla Bond, Harvey Polk, Judy Polk, and Paul Baird.

Harvey Polk served as Master of Ceremonies, and Rev. Linda Clark offered a prayer before the meal. Beth Foshee and Sherrie Graf provided NSU football-themed table decorations.

Young at Heart meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11 AM in Bostick Hall at the church (enter through doors under the bell tower). The meeting is non-denominational, and all community seniors are welcome to come and enjoy the entertainment, food, and fellowship. Those attending are asked to pay a $5.00 fee or to bring a covered dish to share. The next meeting is scheduled for October 1.

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Here is a look at the week of Sept. 7-13 at Northwestern State University.

Aug. 18 – Sept. 11 – Exhibit by Gretchen Murchison, “Rippled, Ruched, and Fractured,” Orville Hanchey Art Gallery

Sept. 7 – Soccer vs. UL-Lafayette, Lady Demon Soccer Complex, 6 p.m.

Sept. 8 – Guest recital featuring flutist Dr. Elizabeth McNutt, Magale Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. #

Sept. 9 – Part-Time Job Fair, Friedman Student Union, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Volleyball vs. UL-Monroe, Prather Coliseum, 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 9 – Annual Faculty Showcase, Magale Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. #

Sept. 11 – Patriot Day ceremony, Caspari Hall Flagpole, 7:46 a.m.

Sept. 12 – Omojo Percussion Duo Concert, Magale Recital Hall, 7:30 p.m. #

Sept. 13-14 — Remote Pilot Certification prep course, Kyser Hall, Room 107, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

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Community Facility Will Bring Compassion, Care, and Connection to the Region

On a bustling stretch of Hwy 1 Bypass, construction crews are hard at work on a project that promises to transform animal care and community life for families throughout Natchitoches Parish. Rising from the foundation is a new community center for animal care and adoption, designed not only to provide lifesaving care for animals in need, but also to serve as a hub for families, volunteers, and the wider community. Guided by local leadership and fueled by broad support, the project reflects a shared commitment to improving both animal welfare and community life.

The initiative is led by FAUNA (Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving animal welfare. In recognition of years of advocacy, support, and deep generosity, FAUNA’s Board of Directors voted to name the facility the Edwina & Sam Friedman Pet Adoption & Welfare Center. While the facility is being built through the generosity of major supporters, FAUNA emphasizes that its long-term success will depend on the dedication and participation of the entire community—a parish-wide effort made possible by many hands.

Funding for the center reflects that same balance of leadership and community spirit. Partial support comes from the State of Louisiana and private donors, but the largest contribution comes from Edwina Friedman, a longtime animal advocate. She is dedicating the new facility to the memory of her late husband, Sam Friedman, a respected hotelier and founder of Dimension Hospitality, whose career was built on the values of service, dignity, and care, principles that now guide the mission of this new center.

“Sam’s philosophy was that hospitality wasn’t just about running hotels—it was about creating a sense of home and belonging,” said Edwina Friedman. “This center will continue that spirit. It will be a place of comfort, safety, and new beginnings, not only for the animals who come here but also for the families who welcome them into their homes.”

She added, “Sam believed every guest deserved warmth and care. I believe animals and their families deserve the same. By creating this center, we are extending hospitality to the members of our community, two-legged and four-legged alike.”

That spirit of hospitality will be reflected in the services the center will offer. When completed, the new center will provide safe housing and adoption services for animals in need. It will also host affordable spay/neuter and vaccination clinics, helping families reduce costs and keep their pets healthy at home. Additionally, the center will promote responsible pet ownership through education programs, and it will serve as a gathering place for volunteers, fosters, and local families who share the desire to make a difference in animal welfare in the community.

Designed to serve the parish for decades to come, the facility will also include a multipurpose meeting room that can host a wide range of activities, from educational workshops and civic meetings to family gatherings and community events. In addition, a surgical suite with treatment, exam, and X-ray rooms will provide animals housed at the center with high-quality medical care, supporting their wellbeing as they wait for adoption.

Outdoors, two ponds will provide irrigation for the site, while play and exercise areas will give dogs room to thrive. Future plans include a nature-inspired park environment with a walking trail that will create a safe, welcoming space where the community can enjoy the grounds while supporting animal care.

“This is so much more than a shelter,” said Rachel LeBlanc, President of the FAUNA Board of Directors. “It is a community center that will strengthen families, build connections, and celebrate the generosity, spirit, and resilience that define Natchitoches. It will also carry forward the Friedmans’ legacy of hospitality and the compassion of our entire community.”

To bring this vision to life, FAUNA partnered with design professionals who share its commitment to efficiency and community service. The design team includes A Beazley Architecture (Broussard, LA) and Longo Architecture Studio (Lafayette, LA), shaping the overall architectural vision; element5/26 (Birmingham, AL), creating inviting and versatile interior spaces; and JCLA Studios (Baton Rouge, LA), designing the outdoor environment. FAUNA is deeply grateful for their dedication to creating a center that will be welcoming, functional, and inspiring for both animals and the community.

While the facility itself is being carefully planned, FAUNA’s commitment to the community is already strong and deeply rooted in years of service. Their work demonstrates that caring for animals is also a way of caring for families, neighborhoods, and the wellbeing of the entire parish. FAUNA was formed in 2022 when two animal rescue groups, Natchitoches Hope for Paws and Natchitoches Humane Society, combined forces. Collectively, the two organizations have been serving the community for more than 70 years. Today, FAUNA carries forward that legacy with multiple community programs:

• Spay Natchitoches: Provides a robust spay/neuter program to help families manage the care of their pets.
• TNR (Trap/Neuter/Return): Humanely manages community cats to prevent overpopulation, improve health, and reduce nuisance behaviors while supporting rodent control.
• Pet Health Fairs: Hosted several times each year, offering no- and low-cost vaccinations, microchipping, and education on the benefits of spaying and neutering.
• PACT (Providing Animal Comfort Therapy): Brings service animals to nursing homes, offering companionship and joy to residents and staff.
• NSU Veterinary Technology Partnership: Collaborates with Northwestern State University’s Veterinary Technology Program, enhancing care for community animals while supporting student learning. As part of this commitment, FAUNA funds an endowed scholarship for NSU Vet Tech students, ensuring ongoing support for future professionals.

These programs demonstrate FAUNA’s active role today, even as anticipation builds for the opening of the new facility in late 2026. Details on volunteer training sessions, school programs, and other events will be announced closer to opening. For updates and opportunities, visit https://www.npfauna.org  or email npfauna@gmail.com.

🐾 Get Involved with FAUNA Now

The new pet adoption and welfare center will open in late 2026, but you don’t have to wait to make a difference. As this parish-wide resource takes shape, FAUNA believes its impact will grow strongest when supported by the same spirit of collaboration that built it, from families and volunteers to community leaders, local institutions, and businesses.

• Individuals & Organizations: Volunteer your time and talents, from hands-on animal care to event planning and execution, transport, education, marketing, digital applications, administrative and clerical assistance, grant writing, and community outreach.
• Teachers & Schools: Inspire the next generation by partnering with FAUNA to create meaningful student learning opportunities.
• Families & Individuals: Open your heart and home by adopting or fostering pets in need of care and comfort.
• Local Businesses: Build stronger communities through sponsorships and partnerships that support programs benefiting families and animals alike.
• Community Leaders & Institutions: Be champions of progress by providing the partnerships, resources, and support needed to ensure this parish-wide effort thrives for families and animals throughout the city and parish.
• Donations: Invest in compassion and a stronger future for families and animals across our city and parish with a tax-deductible gift that expands FAUNA’s programs and advances the new center.
• Naming Opportunities: Make a lasting impact—community members, organizations, and businesses can sponsor spaces such as kennels, adoption rooms, and gathering areas to sustain these vital resources for generations to come.
• Contact: https://www.npfauna.org | npfauna@gmail.com

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