The Natchitoches Parish School Board was honored to welcome Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley to M.R. Weaver Elementary School on Aug. 26.

During his visit, Dr. Brumley toured the campus, observed classrooms in session, and met with Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloi, Principal Armetrice Williams—a 2026 Louisiana Principal of the Year Honoree—Board President Reba Phelps, and several other NPSB leaders.

The visit highlighted the dedication of Weaver’s faculty and staff, as well as the excellence in teaching and learning that takes place each day. Dr. Brumley’s recognition of Principal Williams underscores the school’s commitment to student success and strong leadership.

“We are grateful for Dr. Brumley’s visit and proud to celebrate Principal Williams’s well-deserved recognition,” said Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloi. “Her leadership, combined with the hard work of our teachers and students, represents the very best of Natchitoches Parish Schools.”

M.R. Weaver Elementary and NPSB extend their thanks to Dr. Brumley for taking the time to celebrate Principal Williams’s achievement and to witness firsthand the outstanding work happening within the district.

The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested Quintin Chatman (B/M, 20 y.o.a. of Bossier City) for being in possession of two firearms at a local night club early Sunday morning, Aug. 24 around 12:51 am.

Natchitoches Police Department officers were notified of a disturbance at a night club in the 7000 block of Highway 3110. Officers made contact with the club’s management who told them that Quintin Chatman, the suspect, was attempting to start an altercation with other patrons. Officers told Quintin Chatman to leave the establishment and he agreed to not re-enter the property.

Quintin Chatman was seen a short time later by officers entering the club through a side and was escorted outside. He was advised that if he was to return that he would be placed under arrest.

After agreeing to leave the property for a second time, officers located Quintin Chatman in the parking lot. As officers approached him they observed a firearm in his hand and immediately disarmed him. After being placed under arrest another firearm was located in his waistband.

Quintin Chatman is charged with Illegal Carrying of Weapons, Carrying of Firearms or Dangerous Weapons at an Alcoholic Beverage Outlet, Terrorizing and Remaining. He was placed in the LaSalle Corrections / Natchitoches Detention Center.

The Natchitoches Police Department would like to thank the Northwestern State University Police Department for their assistance with this incident.

If you would like to report suspicious activity or if you have additional information in regards to this investigation 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.

The Natchitoches Police Department has arrested Chad Haskins (B/M, 32 y.o.a. of Natchitoches) after brandishing a firearm early Monday morning, Aug. 25 around 1:03 am.

Natchitoches Police Department officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Younger Boulevard in reference to an individual waiving a firearm while walking up and down the street. Upon officers’ arrival they made contact with Chad Haskins, the suspect, who was acting erratic and punching in the air as if he was attempting to fight someone. As officers attempted to place Chad Haskins under arrest he began to act aggressive towards them and was actively resisting. Officers were eventually able to take Chad Haskins into custody and located 29 grams of marijuana and fifteen suspected methamphetamine pills before he was placed into police vehicle. A Bersa Thunder .380 pistol was also located on the ground.

Chad Haskins is charged with Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS, Resisting an Officer, Battery on a Police Officer and Terrorizing. He was placed in the LaSalle Corrections / Natchitoches Detention Center.

The Natchitoches Police Department would like to thank the Northwestern State University Police Department for their assistance with this incident.

If you would like to report suspicious activity or if you have additional information in regards to this investigation 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.

The Backbone Fire in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area has been declared to be 100% contained. The Kisatchie Ranger District in Natchitoches Parish has reopened the Wilderness Area, the trails within (Backbone, Turpentine, and High Ridge) and Longleaf Vista.

The Natchitoches City Council met on Aug. 25 addressing proclamations, ordinances, resolutions, and financial updates, while also welcoming a special guest from Northwestern State University.

Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. issued two proclamations recognizing upcoming community celebrations. Sept. 19–20 was declared Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival Days, honoring the city’s signature event and its cultural and economic impact. Aug. 29–30 was proclaimed Cane River Zydeco Festival Days, recognizing the annual event that brings music, food, and tourism to the region.

The council adopted an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Natchitoches Economic Development Alliance. The one-year agreement provides for services to support business growth, marketing, and advertising on behalf of the city.

A key resolution was approved to authorize a contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc. for the acquisition of new police communication consoles and portable radios. The upgrade replaces outdated equipment no longer supported by the manufacturer and will enhance coordination among local emergency agencies. The agreement will be financed through a lease-purchase arrangement.

The council also passed a resolution appointing Steve Byone to the Natchitoches Airport Advisory Commission. Byone will fill the unexpired term of Janice Bolton, who retired after years of service.

Finance Director Clarissa Smith presented the city’s financial report, noting continued strong revenue collections compared to last year. Sales tax revenues and special taxing district collections remain ahead of 2024 figures, with festival season expected to contribute further gains.

Special guest Blaine McCorkle, head coach of the Northwestern State University football team, attended the meeting to update the council on the upcoming season. McCorkle thanked the community for its support and shared his optimism about both athletic and academic achievements among his players.

Announcements included notice of the next scheduled City Council meeting on September 8. City offices will be closed Friday, August 29, for Employee Appreciation Day, and Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.

The City of Natchitoches announces that construction will begin on Monday, Aug. 25 on
Myrtle Drive and Virginia Avenue in Natchitoches.

The initial work to be performed on these streets is the removal and replacement of isolated
sections of deteriorated concrete curb-and-gutter along each side of these streets.

This work will be followed by milling to remove the existing deteriorated asphalt surfacing, and base
reconstruction with Portland cement, which is expected to begin on or around Tuesday, Sept.
2.

This work is part of the City’s FY 2023 Louisiana Community Development Block Grant Street
Rehabilitation project, which also includes ongoing work on J.C. Deblieux Drive and upcoming work
on Brahma Drive and Ouida Drive. The contractor is Regional Construction, LLC, of Natchitoches.

While traveling through these work zones, motorists are advised to exercise caution and to obey all
warning signs and flagger instructions.

For more information, contact the City Engineer at (318) 352-3877.

Northwestern State University’s Veterinary Technology students recently toured the Natchitoches Animal Shelter as part of their parasitology course. 

Throughout the semester, students collaborate with the shelter by conducting fecal exams to test for parasites. The results provide valuable information that helps staff identify and treat internal parasites more effectively, ensuring better outcomes for the animals in their care.

The visit was guided through the facility by shelter staff member Johnathon Meziere, who shared insight into daily operations and the importance of parasite monitoring. This not only enhances the students’ hands-on learning but also strengthens the shelter’s ability to provide timely and accurate care. It highlights the community connection between NSU and the Natchitoches Animal Shelter, combining education with service to improve animal welfare.

Flutist Dr. Elizabeth McNutt will present a recital at Northwestern State University on Monday, Sept. 8 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/livestream.

McNutt will be accompanied by cellist Paul Christopher, an associate professor of cello at NSU.

The program will include works by Brian Ferneyhough, Ursula Mamlok, Sungji Hong, Elliott Carter and Franco Donatoni.

McNutt is internationally recognized for her performances of innovative contemporary and electroacoustic music. She has premiered countless works and performed in Europe, Asia, and throughout the U.S. Her playing has been described as “commanding” (LA Times), “fearless and astounding” (Flute Talk), “high-octane” (Musicworks), and “spellbinding” (Computer Music Journal). In addition to her solo CD “pipe wrench,” her recordings are released on the CRI, Centaur, SEAMUS and Parma labels. She founded and directs the Sounds Modern series in Fort Worth, plays chamber music in the Calliope Duo and improvises in a trio.

McNutt is committed to scholarly research, with articles published in “Organised Sound,” “Flutist Quarterly” and “Music Theory Online Journal.” She is on the faculty of the University of North Texas, where she teaches flute, directs the new music ensemble Nova and coordinates the related field in contemporary music performance.

September 25, 1942 — August 22, 2025

Richard Turner Johnson passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Natchitoches, Louisiana on August 22, 2025 at the age of 82. Richard is survived by his loving wife Barbara whom he was married to for 55 years. Their son Lance Johnson (wife Terrah) of Shreveport; granddaughters Emmalyn, Hannah, and Gracie. Daughter Leslie Johnson Kennedy (husband Mickey) of Southlake, Texas; granddaughters Addisyn and Amelia. Brother Lovick Howard Johnson III (wife Adris) and daughter-in-law Christy Johnson Everett of Natchitoches. He is proceeded in death by his parents Lovick Howard Johnson Jr. and Stella Turner Johnson and his son Richard Turner Johnson Jr.

Richard was born and raised in Natchitoches and went on to become a successful businessman owning L.H. Johnson Wholesale with his brother Lovick for over 50 years. The Wholesale brought so much joy to the whole family who spent many days there helping customers purchase for their stores, buying and selling pecans, and providing candy for The Natchitoches Christmas Festival. The Wholesale employed many members of the community who all became family.

Richard loved spending time with his family and traveling, he and Barbara traveled to many wonderful places with some of his favorite places being Las Vegas, Nevada; Park City, Utah; North Carolina; and Maine. He loved playing tennis and spent many weekends traveling all over the South playing in tournaments with Barbara and so many others who became lifelong friends. He also loved spending time outdoors fishing with his kids and planting and harvesting pecan trees. He loved learning about the different varieties of pecan trees and would ride to his farm every evening to check on his orchard.

A visitation will be held from 12:30pm-2pm Wednesday, August 27 at Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home; with a memorial service at 2pm followed by a celebration of life reception at Riverside Reserve, 104 Mill Street, Natchitoches from 3:30-5:30. A private family burial will follow that evening.

Pallbearers include: Payne Williams, Ryan Stehr, Chad Methvin, Trent Methvin, Cody LaCaze, and Lucky Kerry. Honorary pallbearers include: Gary DeBlieux, Frank Hines, Scooter Perot, Riley LaCaze, and Dannie Methvin.

The family would like to thank all the wonderful doctors, nurses, therapists and staff at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center plus the amazing caring staff of Hospice of Natchitoches. Also thank you to Natchitoches Community Care Center for making Richard’s time there so enjoyable and caring for him like he was family. Your dedication to his health will always be remembered, cherished and appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or FAUNA-animal rescue of Natchitoches.

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

The phrase “bigger and better” fits the first “Battle on the Bricks” high school football jamboree set for Turpin Stadium Friday and Saturday.

There’s been a local jamboree for many years, sponsored recently by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center. The local hospital’s support has been steady, and has attracted additional sponsors.

This year, it’s attracted additional teams and gotten a new name. Start with the three local schools – Natchitoches Central, St. Mary’s and Lakeview.

The fan out to two from Vernon Parish, 2024 Class 4A semifinalist Leesville (bringing varsity and junior varsity squads), and Pickering.

Look down I-49 and add Menard and Tioga, then go into the pine trees north of the Red River for Red River, Grant, LaSalle, and Winnfield.

It will provide six games, three each day. Tickets sold at each participating school produce revenue that stays at the school.

Friday’s schedule begins at 4 o’clock with Lakeview meeting the Leesville JV, then an appealing Class 2A clash at 6 between Winnfield and Menard.

Natchitoches Central tangles with Leesville at 8 to wrap up the opening night.

Saturday’s slate kicks off at noon when Tioga squares off against Red River. Grant and LaSalle battle at 2, and St. Mary’s wraps up the two-day jamboree at 4 taking on Pickering.

Teams will play two 12-minute quarters. The regular season begins on the first weekend in September.

Coaches and two players from each school participated in a “Battle on the Bricks” media session Monday at the hospital’s Listach Room.

“I truly believe this can become something that will be great for not just the local area, but the region. We have great quality teams, great coaches, and a lot of history of friendships throughout the coaching staffs, the players and the communities,” said St. Mary’s coach Kedrin Seastrunk.

NCHS coach Brad Laird said he and assistant coach Pete Townsend, who was the coordinator putting together the jamboree, are modeling it after the longstanding “Bayou Jamb” hosted annually at ULM and involving nearly two dozen north Louisiana teams over a three-day span in Monroe.

“Coming back last year, from Bayou Jamb, Coach Townsend asked, ‘why can’t we do that in Natchitoches? Why can’t we do that in Turpin Stadium? A hundred percent credit to Coach Townsend for the work he’s done since last August to get this going in a much bigger way,” said Laird.

“It’s been great. We have a beautiful stadium. We have Northwestern State. We have a great community to show off to visitors,” said Townsend.

Over and over, coaches and players from outside of Natchitoches Parish expressed their excitement about playing in a college stadium and visiting the NSU campus, while fans can also enjoy spending time in Natchitoches.

“We expect this to be a very good start and we intend to make it bigger and better going forward,” said Laird. “We can’t thank our sponsors enough for making this possible.”

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

By JASON PUGH, Northwestern State Sports Information Director

As one of the world’s foremost experts on concussions, Natchitoches native and former Northwestern State football player Dr. Julian Bailes is a gifted man.

Ahead of the 2025 Northwestern football season, Bailes has taken those gifts and returned them in kind to the Demons, helping provide an innovative Q-Collar for every player on the roster.

The Q-Collar, designed by Bailes, is worn around the neck and applies light pressure to the neck, which causes a partial occlusion to the jugular veins and a slight increase of blood volume inside the head, which helps reduce the brain’s movement upon impact thereby greatly reducing the risk of concussion.

“(Natchitoches lawyer) Billy West, who is obviously really, really good friends with Dr. Bailes, made the introduction,” second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle said. “Dr. Bailes came in town (last year), and he had a meeting with our staff just to educate us on concussions. Just the knowledge was unbelievable, and that led from one thing to another, including the discussions about the Q-Collar. When he came back this spring, there were more discussions and it kind of grew into an opportunity for him to provide our whole team with Q-Collars.”

The Demons already are reaping measurable benefits thanks to Bailes, formerly the Pittsburgh Steelers’ team neurosurgeon and a longtime advisor to the NFL, NCAA, and Pop Warner football. He and Natchitoches residents David and Dr. Jennifer Thornton helped provide the Q-Collars to Northwestern, making the Demons among the first NCAA programs to utilize them.

McCorkle said concussion incidents through fall camp were among the lowest he could remember throughout his three decades of college coaching.

The Q-Collars and the custom-fit Schutt helmets the Demons ordered played roles in that number shrinking while the Q-Collars themselves have loosened up some of the Demons as an unexpected plus.

“Before I was wearing the Q-Collar, I’d take a big hit and feel a little rung up and it would take a little bit to get back to the huddle, but the Q-Collar allows you to play with confidence,” sophomore offensive tackle Garrett Morphis said. “It allows you to play free. You can take big hits or you can lay big hits and your head doesn’t hurt after the play. I think it does its job, so I can do my job at a high level.”

As training camp progressed, the Demons who used their newest piece of equipment quickly adjusted to it.

“I’ve gotten really comfortable wearing it,” sophomore safety Kaden Mackey said. “When I hit, I don’t even feel anything, so it’s amazing.”

With Bailes’ involvement in the development of the Q-Collar, a partnership with his hometown university made sentimental sense. The execution of it re-emphasized a message McCorkle has shared with his team throughout his 21-month tenure as the head Demon.

“We talk about ‘The Link’ we wear all the time and, it seems like he’s (Bailes) a teammate as well,” Mackey said. “Him donating it shows a lot of love. He wants us to play free because he loves the game.”

While the meeting between McCorkle and Bailes helped lead to the addition of the Q-Collars, it also gave McCorkle insight into what has helped Bailes relay his expertise to any and everyone.

“Dr. Bailes, obviously, he’s brilliant, and he has a lot of information and a lot of things that we’ve never heard, thought of or even knew existed, but he has a unique way of making it make sense,” McCorkle said. “He kind of boils that cabbage down so the lay person – the simple football coach like myself – can really understand it. That’s a gift – to be able to communicate that way. Every time he shows up or we have a chance to visit or listen to him present, you take something different away.”

Contact Jason at pughj@nsula.edu

Demon fans, show your Purple Pride and join the Northwestern State University family for the season-opening Purple Out game Thursday, Aug. 28 in Turpin Stadium. Tailgating, entertainment and more is store for fans prior to kick-off at 7 p.m. against the Bravehawks of Alcorn State.

“Wear your purple and come to Turpin Stadium to support your NSU Demons!” says NSU President James Genovese as he urges the community to join the Proud to Be Purple initiative, a focus on school spirit, pride in Northwestern State and tight community support. “It’s important for the community to show up for NSU and, not just the football team, but the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, the cheerleaders, pom line and our student fans.”

The Alumni Tailgate at Collins Pavilion will be from 4-6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for members of the Alumni Association and $15 for non-members and include one trip through the buffet and two drinks. Tickets can be purchased at the tailgate.

The university has also designated the Aug. 28 home opener as a Faculty and Staff Appreciation Night. All NSU employees are invited to attend a Faculty/Staff tailgate and are eligible for ticket discounts and giveaways.

First-time freshmen will participate in a beloved pregame tradition, the Inferno Run, prior to the football team runout.

“The Inferno Run is an unforgettable experience, and it gets the Class of 2029 and the fans in the stadium excited to welcome the team onto the field,” Genovese said.

The Spirit of Northwestern Demon Marching Band will debut the “Winner Takes All” half-time show, along with their traditional pregame show.

“I think this football team, right now, is what we call ‘joyfully angry,'” said second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle following the opening of fall camp last month. “We can be both at the same time. You can have a good attitude and work hard, but there is a healthy anger about this team right now that I’m kind of enjoying.”

Demon fans are also invited to NSU Quarterback Club luncheons, presented by Cross Financial, with this season’s first lunch at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 25 at Merci Beaucoup Restaurant. The cost is $20 with a selection from a limited menu of Merci Beaucoup favorites. McCorkle and staff will address the group and provide insight and reflection into the NSU program and its upcoming opponents. Additional luncheons will be held Sept. 18, Oct. 2, Oct. 23, Nov. 6 and Nov. 17.

“We need fans in the stands and voices in the air cheering our student-athletes and the student spirit groups that support them,” Genovese said. “Get your tickets and we will see you there.”

General admission is $15 for adults and $10 for youth 12 and under. General admission tickets are valid for any bleacher seat in the stadium on west side, east side or the upper deck.

Information on season tickets, VIP boxes, ticket packages, chairback seating and group pricing is available at nsudemons.com/sports/2022/4/19/2022-FB-Tickets.aspx.

Information on NSU Athletics is available at nsudemons.com.

In 2006, 28-year-old Army Specialist Todd Shriver was just one of many soldiers fighting in Iraq against Saddam Hussein’s regime. Todd and other soldiers in his unit were tasked with clearing buildings of enemy insurgents in the city of Ramadi, but the work was slow. The soldiers listened for any movement in the room to be cleared. If they heard nothing, the soldiers took a quick peak into a room, with a mirror if one was available, to check for any signs of obvious danger such as enemy soldiers or explosives. They could be hiding anywhere. Then, the soldiers cautiously and slowly walked or crawled through the doorway with their weapons at the ready. Once a room was cleared, they repeated the process on a slow, seemingly endless cycle. If they failed to notice a tripwire, just one…BOOM!

Enemy soldiers had set booby traps in many of the buildings. The explosives were triggered by nearly invisible trip wires. The various branches of the military had spent an untold amount of money searching for a practical solution for finding these tripwires, but none of their ideas became standard-issue equipment. Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Garver, a U.S. military spokesman in Baghdad, explained that soldiers often have to improvise on the battlefield and that commanders are given money to purchase nonstandard supplies. During the war in Iraq, soldiers bolted scrap metal to vehicles in what they called “Hillbilly Armor.” Troops removed old bulletproof windshields from damaged vehicles and attached them to working military vehicles to provide extra protection to gunners. Medics used tampons to plug bullet holes until the wounded soldiers could be transported from the battlefield to medical facilities. Soldiers used condoms over the muzzles of their rifles to keep sand out.

With no clear solution to easily locating tripwires, Todd and his fellow soldiers continued the slow process of clearing buildings. One day in October 2006, Todd was assisting some Marines in clearing a building. It was pretty much the same process of listen and look. Then, the Marine did something Todd was not expecting. He pulled out an aerosol can and sprayed its contents through the doorway. Todd was curious about the Marine’s action, but the soldiers knew to keep quiet. After clearing a few rooms in the same manner, the Marine took out the aerosol can and sprayed it as he had through the other doorways. This time, something different happened. The contents that spewed from the can clung to a nearly invisible thread which spanned the doorway. With a quick push of the can’s nozzle, the soldiers located a practically invisible tripwire that could have been deadly.

Todd requested cans of the product, but none could be found in Iraq. The product was plentiful in the United States, so Todd turned to his mother, Marcelle Shriver. On a telephone call, Todd told her what the product was and how they could use it if they had it. Todd’s mother sprung into action. She sent her son a few cans of the spray, but they needed more. With the help of her church, Todd’s mother sent him a few more dozen cans. Word spread quickly about the need and manufacturers joined in the cause. Within a year, Todd’s mother had sent more than 80,000 cans of the spray to soldiers in Iraq. Todd’s mother was collecting the spray cans, not from hardware stores, but from party supply stores. You see, the product in the aerosol cans that has saved countless lives by making the invisible tripwires visible was a silly solution called Silly String.

Sources:

1. “A Serious Use For Silly String,” December 6, 2005, CBS News, accessed August 17, 2025, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/a-serious-use-for-silly-string/.

2. Mel Evans, “Silly String care packages sent to troops in Iraq,” October 15, 2007, NBC News, accessed August 17, 2025, https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna21309380.

“As long as men are free to ask what they must, free to say what they think, free to think what they will, freedom can never be lost and science can never regress.” -Marcel Proust

So long as men and women can hold the homemade sign – NO FAUX KING WAY – against the backdrop of the architectural masterpiece – The Gateway Arch, “designed by the Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen and the German-American structural engineer Hannskarl Bandel.”

So long as men and women can heed the testament of blood, sweat and tears by “the conscience of Congress, the late Congressman John Lewis: “Though I may not be here with you, I urge you to answer the highest calling of your heart and stand up for what you truly believe. In my life I have done all I can to demonstrate that the way of peace, the way of love and nonviolence is the more excellent way. Now it is your turn to let freedom ring.”

So long as men and women can “Get in good trouble, necessary trouble” by “the conscience of Congress”, this nation will not lack the “good troublemakers, necessary troublemakers”, and its torch is necessarily carried by the savvy Gov. Gavin Newsom of California as a counter measure against the Lone Star State’s “planned implementation of new congressional maps”, minding the mantra of the late Congressman John Lewis, the son of a sharecropper.

So long as men and women can stand or sit her/his ground, as in the YMCA case of Ms. Maria Spooner, 72, not getting up from the seat she occupied in the senior exercise class at the Y of South Boston, VA, which was coveted by the elderly ‘Caucasian’ lady, but she steadfastly refused, saying “I got here first.” To me, Ms. Spooner appeared to be the rightful bearer of the spirit of Rosa Parks, who offered the following in order to rectify the public notion about her tiredness.

“People always say that I didn’t give up my seat because I was tired, but that isn’t true. I was not tired physically, or no more tired than I usually was at the end of a working day. I was not old, although some people have an image of me as being old then. I was forty-two. No, the only tired I was, was tired of giving in.” [National Women’s History Museum (Bold mine)] I think Ms. Spooner channeled Rosa Parks’ “tired of giving in” by not budging over. Because “I got here first.” Ironically, it was the YMCA staff who called police on 72-year old Virginian Rosa Parks over a chair, uttering, “Tired of this.”

People err. The police err. And the YMCA staff err. For to err is human. However, it is good to have an organization, especially the service organization fondly known as the Y, with people wearing peacemaker’s hat cobbled together with the sinews of the Civil Rights struggle.

Most importantly, the YMCA apologized to Ms. Maria Spooner.*

SO LONG AS
MEN AND WOMEN CAN DO
THIS
THEY’RE FREE!

Readers may click on the link below for the full text of the YMCA apology. *Dispute over chair at South Boston YMCA leads to police involvement

Natchitoches City Council will have a pre-council meeting on Monday, August. 25 beginning at 5 p.m. and ending at 5:30 p.m. to discuss non-agenda items. The City Council meeting will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month and will be reserved to only items on the Agenda.  The public is invited to both the pre-council meetings and council meetings with the understanding that items not on the agenda will not be discussed at the scheduled council meetings, but the public is welcome to discuss any topic at the pre-council meetings.  The City Council Meetings are held at the Natchitoches City Council Chambers, located at 716 Second St. in Natchitoches.

PROCLAMATIONS:
#067 Smith-Kirkendol #068 Elie #071 Harrington Proclamation Declaring September 2025 As National Sickle Cell Awareness Month In The City Of Natchitoches

Proclamation Declaring September 19 and 20, 2025 As Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival Day’s In The City Of Natchitoches.

Proclamation Declaring August 29 and 30, 2025 As The Cane River Zydeco Festival In The City Of Natchitoches.

ORDINANCES – FINAL:
Ordinance Authorizing The Mayor Of The City Of Natchitoches, Louisiana, To Enter Into A Memorandum Of Understanding With The Natchitoches Economic Development Alliance, Which Said Memorandum Provides For Services To Be Provided By The Natchitoches Economic Development Alliance., Providing For A One Year Term, Providing For Advertising, Further Providing For Severability, And Further Providing For A Repealer And Effective Date Of Ordinance.

RESOLUTIONS:
Resolution Authorizing And Approving The Contract Between The City Of Natchitoches And Motorola Solutions, Inc., For Acquisition Of New Communications Consoles And Portables Under A Piggy Back Contract And Authorizing The Mayor, Ronnie Williams, To Execute The Lease-Purchase Agreement With Motorola Solutions, Inc., And Any Other Documents Necessary And Proper In The Premises.

Resolution To Appoint Steve Byone To Fill The Unexpired Term Of Janice Bolton As Commissioner On The Natchitoches Airport Advisory Commission For The City Of Natchitoches.

FINANCIAL REPORT: Clarissa Smith

SPECIAL GUEST: Blaine McCorkle, NSU Head Football Coach

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
• The next scheduled City Council meeting will be September 8, 2025.
• The City of Natchitoches offices will be closed on Friday, August 29, 2025 for Employee Appreciation Day and Monday, September 1, 2025 in honor of Labor Day.

PAID CONTENT

NPSO-A Marrero man was arrested Thursday evening after being clocked at 115 mph and driving recklessly on Interstate 49, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

On August 21, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m., deputies with the NPSO Patrol Operations Bureau were conducting patrols near mile marker 132 on I-49 when they observed a southbound 2025 Toyota SUV rental vehicle traveling at 115 mph in a posted 75 mph zone.

Deputies initiated a traffic stop using emergency lights and sirens, but the driver failed to yield and continued southbound in a reckless manner. The pursuit continued for approximately six miles before the vehicle came to a stop.

During the stop, the driver initially pulled onto the left shoulder before abruptly crossing both lanes of traffic, nearly causing a crash, deputies reported.

The driver, a 23-year-old male from Marrero, Louisiana, was taken into custody without further incident.

He was transported to LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center and booked on charges of:
Speeding 115/75
Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

As of this morning, he remains in custody awaiting bond.

The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office reminds motorists that speeding is one of the leading causes of traffic crashes and urges all drivers to obey posted speed limits for the safety of motorists.

Deputy Cpl. B. Keyser made the arrest.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), advises the public that on Wednesday, August 27 from 8 AM – 4:30 PM, weather permitting, Bridge #053-03-0811-1 on LA 1 over Cane River will be reduced to one lane for routine bridge maintenance. The bridge is on LA 1 and is located 0.5 miles north of the LA 495 Intersection.

Permit/Detour section
No detour will be needed as one lane will be open at all times

Safety Reminder
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution around the construction sites and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at http://www.511la.org. Additionally, you can follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ http://www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page.

Church Street was closed on the morning of Aug. 23 as a crane was brought in to move a new air conditioning unit into the Natchitoches Parish Courthouse.

The installation addressed the portion of the building housing the Clerk of Court, District Judge’s office along with the Courtrooms, which had been without air conditioning for the past week.

The Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission met on August 21, at 10 a.m. for its full commission meeting, covering financial updates and reports from partner organizations.

The commission approved minutes from the July 24 meeting and reviewed the July 31 financial statement, which showed a balance of $139,665.26 and $1,200 in expenses for the month. A motion to approve the financial statement passed unanimously.

Commission member Van Erikson reported on Northwestern State University, noting that the fall semester began August 18 with what is expected to be the largest freshman class in several years.

Housing is at capacity with a waiting list, and transfer enrollment is strong. Upcoming athletic events include the first home football game on August 28. He also highlighted the opening of Alost Hall, a $46 million facility already in use for classes, as well as renovations to Iberville Cafeteria. Community partnerships through “Proud to Be Purple” and “Demon Deals” campaigns were also recognized. A tour of Alost Hall was scheduled for later in the week.

Reports from other organizations included:

Historic District Business Association: A record number of entries are expected for the upcoming Car Show. The weekend will also coincide with homecoming activities for both Natchitoches Central High School and NSU.

Tourist Commission: Marketing efforts for the Christmas season are being combined with the Christmas Festival Committee and Convention and Visitors Bureau. A redesigned website now features itineraries and activities for NSU students.

Cane River National Heritage Area: Riverbank stabilization projects are nearing completion. Landscaping in the Mill District is awaiting DOTD permits, while downtown utilities are preparing new connections to support Christmas Festival displays.

Natchitoches Historic Foundation: The board will meet August 24, and Christmas Tour of Homes ticket sales have already reached 194. Social media promotions for the event are underway.

Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches: A White Linen Night membership drive will take place August 21. The Fall Tour of Homes is scheduled for October 10–11, including candlelight and town tours. Upcoming festivals include Zydeco in early September, the Meat Pie Festival in mid-September, the Car Show in October, and Tapped Tober later that month.

Chamber of Commerce: Recent events included the Chamber Breakfast Club with NSU Athletics. Upcoming workforce events are scheduled for August 29 in Campti and September 5 in Natchez. Leadership Natchitoches applications open October 1, and other events on the calendar include the Imagine More Yoga Studio ribbon cutting on October 3, Thrive Gala on December 11, and the Best of Natchitoches in November.

Natchitoches Events Center: Staff introduced Branden Burton, a key member of operations. Events include the NSU Athletic Scholarship Auction, upcoming weddings, and the Bigfoot Convention September 5–6, which is expected to draw 3,000 attendees.

City of Natchitoches: An open house for the Teen Center will be held August 25. National Night Out is scheduled for October 7, and the 2025 Christmas Festival poster announcement is forthcoming.

Community Updates: The Demon Diamond and Devotion Breakfast will take place September 20 at Prather Coliseum, and the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast and 5K Color Run are also set for September 20 at the Collins Pavilion.

The commission also heard updates on the riverbank project, including new broadband equipment installation by Pelican Broadband to support internet needs during large festivals.