GET YOUR Natchitoches Jazz/R&B EARLY BIRD TICKETS NOW!!!
THIS WEEK IS YOUR LAST CHANCE to secure your 2023 tickets at the lowest price possible for the Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival on May 12th & 13th.
The Early Bird sale ends March 31st at 11:59 pm!
Buy tickets and be entered in the Steel Magnolia’s Getaway Giveaway!
VIP ticket buyers will be entered into an exclusive VIP Giveaway to be announced! STAY TUNED!
Get your tickets & enter the giveaway here:
JOURNAL STAFF
The latest chapter in the ongoing process of churches disaffiliating from the United Methodist Church Denomination played out in Baton Rouge on Thursday. Nine United Methodist ministers, four of whom live in Caddo Parish, filed suit on March 13 in East Baton Rouge Parish District Court against the Louisiana Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, South Central Jurisdiction. The hearing of that lawsuit was held Thursday, March 23 and Judge Kelly Balfour dismissed the lawsuit deciding that his court did not have jurisdiction to hear the lawsuit. The judge followed a doctrine that states civil courts do not have jurisdiction since the United Methodist Church has its own court to address such issues.
The petition alleged that the Louisiana Annual Conference is not using the proper process to hold meetings where local churches vote on disaffiliating and it asked the court to enjoin the disaffiliation process from proceeding. In their petition, the nine ministers used the First United Methodist Church of Shreveport as their example of what they consider to be a flawed process.
The Louisiana Annual Conference filed an exception to the petition stating that the civil court does not have jurisdiction to hear this case because the United Methodist Church has its own court that hears these kinds of matters. A memorandum filed by the Louisiana Annual Conference states that the church court has already decided against persons making claims similar to those made by the nine ministers.
On Monday, March 20, the First United Methodist Church of Shreveport filed an intervention pleading stating that the church has followed the rules regarding disaffiliation and explained the steps taken by that church. The church stated that a meeting is scheduled for April 16 where a vote is to be taken and if that meeting is postponed, it is unlikely that another meeting can take place before the time for having such meetings has expired. At the meeting, two-thirds of the persons present must vote to disaffiliate in order for the church to disaffiliate and thereby become a Methodist church, independent from the United Methodist Church.
The First United Methodist Church of Shreveport is scheduled to vote on April 16, 2023, on whether to disaffiliate or remain a member of the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. Over 67 Methodist churches in Louisiana have already voted to leave the UMC denomination.
Position: Administrative Assistant 5
Salary: $2,883.00 – $5,675.00 Monthly
Location: Natchitoches, LA
Job Type: Classified
Department: Northwestern State University
Job Number: 171972
Closing: 3/9/2023 11:59 PM Central
Supplemental Information
Northwestern State University is currently accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant 5 in Business Affairs.
Applicants must have Civil Service test scores for 8500-Office Support Exam in order to be considered for this vacancy unless exempted by Civil Service rule or policy. If you do not have a score prior to applying to this posting, it may result in your application not being considered.
Applicants without current test scores can apply to take the test here.
To apply for this vacancy, click on the “Apply” link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page.
*Resumes WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.*
For further information about this vacancy contact:
Benetrus Brooks, H.R. Specialist
Northwestern State University – Human Resources
200 Sam Sibley Dr. – St. Denis Hall
brooksb@nsula.edu
It has been, and will continue to be, the policy of Northwestern State University to be an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are based on job related standards and must comply with the principles of equal employment opportunity.
In keeping with this policy, the University will continue to recruit, hire, train, and promote into all job levels the most qualified persons without regard to race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or retirement status. All personnel actions, such as compensation, benefits, transfers, layoffs, training, and education are administered without regard to race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or retirement status.
The University is committed to equal opportunity for student success by providing access to educational programs, tuition assistance, and social and recreational activities for all students without regard to race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or retirement status. Additionally, the University provides equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.
Student complaints or inquiries related to Title IX should be directed to the Director of Student Advocacy and Title IX Coordinator, Julie Powell (318-357-5570), Room 308 of the Friedman Student Union or email obannonj@nsula.edu. Employee Title IX issues should be directed to the Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Human Resources, Veronica M. Biscoe (318-357-6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or email ramirezv@nsula.edu.
In accordance with Section 35.106 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all participants, applicants, organizations, and interested individuals are advised and notified that the ADA Coordinator for Northwestern State University for facilities is the Director of University Affairs, Jennifer Kelly (318-357-4300), located in New Fine Arts, 104 Central Avenue, Ste. 102 or email andersonje@nsula.edu. For studentacademic services, contact the Director of Access and Disability Support, Taylor Camidge (318-357-5460) located in Room 108-C Watson Memorial Library or email camidget@nsula.edu. For faculty/staff accommodations and services, contact Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Human Resources, Veronica M. Biscoe (318-357-6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or email ramirezv@nsula.edu.
Qualifications
Job Concepts
Function of Work:
To serve as the special assistant to a classified/unclassified executive or high-ranking classified administrator.
Employees perform duties independently and exercise a high degree of independent judgment and initiative in determining the approach/action to take in non-routine situations.
Level of Work: Advanced.
Supervision Received:
General from a classified/unclassified executive or high-ranking classified administrator.
Supervision Exercised:
May supervise 1-2 lower-level personnel.
Location of Work:
May be used by all state agencies.
Job Distinctions:
Differs from Administrative Assistant 4 by the presence of responsibility for serving as special assistant to a classified/unclassified executive or a high-ranking classified administrator.
Differs from Administrative Assistant 6 by the absence of responsibility for serving as the confidential executive assistant to the unclassified Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Undersecretary, Assistant Secretary, or equivalent high-level classified/unclassified executive of a major state department.
Examples of Work
Relieves the executive of a variety of administrative matters by assuming delegated authority in assigned areas.
Performs and supervises administrative support activities such as maintaining files and central records, printing and duplicating services, security, purchasing of supplies and equipment, warehousing, and preparation of payroll and personnel records.
Serves as executive support to department advisors and decision-makers, including administrators and boards/committees.
Reviews correspondence and receives telephone calls related to the most sensitive and confidential matters and determines appropriate action to be taken.
Interprets departmental policies and procedures for staff members and the general public.
Conducts and/or supervises special projects, such as organizing charity drives or coordinating facility maintenance.
Collects and compiles budgetary data for monitoring funds and staffing levels.
Prepares materials needed for meetings, such as agendas, handouts, binders, etc.
May attend meetings and transcribe minutes.
May serve as backup for experienced-level professional duties, such as procurement, accounting, etc.
Administrative Assistant 5 – View Online
EOE
Position: Accounting Technician
Salary: $25,896
Location: Natchitoches, LA
Job Type: Classified
Department: Northwestern State University-Business Affairs
Job Number: 170232
Closing: 2/6/2023 11:59 PM Central
Supplemental Information
Northwestern State University is currently accepting applications for an Accounting Technician in Business Affairs.
No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.
To apply for this vacancy, click on the link below and complete an electronic application,
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/louisiana/default.cfm
The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, as a condition of employment.
*Resumes WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.*
For further information about this vacancy contact:
Benetrus Brooks
Northwestern State University – Human Resources
200 Sam Sibley Dr. – St. Denis Hall
brooksb@nsula.edu
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Three years of experience in bookkeeping, accounting, payroll, or numerical computation.
College training will substitute for the required experience on the basis of thirty semester hours for one year of experience.
An Associate Degree in Accounting, Accounting Technology, or Business from an accredited college or university will substitute for two years of the required experience.
Training in a vocational-technical school or military school in Accounting, Accounting Technology, or Business will substitute for up to one year of required experience on the basis of one month of training for one month of experience.
NOTE: Any college hours or degree must be from an accredited college or university.
Function of Work:
To provide the full range of paraprofessional accounting services.
Level of Work:
Advanced.
Supervision Received:
Generally from higher-level fiscal or administrative position.
Supervision Exercised:
May supervise lower-level paraprofessional fiscal or administrative positions.
Location of Work:
May be used by all state agencies.
Job Distinctions:
Differs from Accounting Specialist 2 by responsibility for preparation of basic-level financial reports.
Differs from professional accountants by assisting accounting professionals in the performance of various tasks within the accounting process.
Maintain operational functions at the cashier window, reconciling cash and cash items daily for deposit.
Communicates with student, parents and other customers regarding questions or problems.
Responsible for physical handling, control, and appropriate account coding of all University’s monetary transactions
Compiles monthly business reports for the bursar concerning but not limited to revenue forecasting, delinquent accounts, petty cash, and departmental advance.
Analyzes and compiles data and prepares monthly reports reflecting actives and stats for accounts receivables.
Position: Accounting Technician
Salary: $25,896
Location: Natchitoches, LA
Job Type: Classified
Department: Northwestern State University-Business Affairs
Job Number: 170232
Closing: 2/6/2023 11:59 PM Central
Supplemental Information
Northwestern State University is currently accepting applications for an Accounting Technician in Business Affairs.
No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy.
To apply for this vacancy, click on the link below and complete an electronic application,
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/louisiana/default.cfm
The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, as a condition of employment.
*Resumes WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete.*
For further information about this vacancy contact:
Benetrus Brooks
Northwestern State University – Human Resources
200 Sam Sibley Dr. – St. Denis Hall
brooksb@nsula.edu
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Three years of experience in bookkeeping, accounting, payroll, or numerical computation.
College training will substitute for the required experience on the basis of thirty semester hours for one year of experience.
An Associate Degree in Accounting, Accounting Technology, or Business from an accredited college or university will substitute for two years of the required experience.
Training in a vocational-technical school or military school in Accounting, Accounting Technology, or Business will substitute for up to one year of required experience on the basis of one month of training for one month of experience.
NOTE: Any college hours or degree must be from an accredited college or university.
Function of Work:
To provide the full range of paraprofessional accounting services.
Level of Work:
Advanced.
Supervision Received:
Generally from higher-level fiscal or administrative position.
Supervision Exercised:
May supervise lower-level paraprofessional fiscal or administrative positions.
Location of Work:
May be used by all state agencies.
Job Distinctions:
Differs from Accounting Specialist 2 by responsibility for preparation of basic-level financial reports.
Differs from professional accountants by assisting accounting professionals in the performance of various tasks within the accounting process.
Maintain operational functions at the cashier window, reconciling cash and cash items daily for deposit.
Communicates with student, parents and other customers regarding questions or problems.
Responsible for physical handling, control, and appropriate account coding of all University’s monetary transactions
Compiles monthly business reports for the bursar concerning but not limited to revenue forecasting, delinquent accounts, petty cash, and departmental advance.
Analyzes and compiles data and prepares monthly reports reflecting actives and stats for accounts receivables.
Trinity United Methodist Church of Ruston is finding new ways to reach the community in regard to how the congregation serves and how members spread the word of God. One way this church reaches the community is through different lecture series each year. This year’s offering, which the church is opening to the public, is the Laskey Lecture Series with Dr. Sandra Richter.
Created by Virginia Laskey, the lecture series brings in dynamic speakers with a variety of topics including politics, spirituality, arts, the environment, and much more.
Three FREE sessions will be taught by Dr. Sandra Richter to speak on the bible’s Old Testament on Saturday, Jan. 21 beginning at 10 am until 4 pm. Dr. Richter is a leading expert on Old Testament knowledge. She will convey a complex understanding of culture, archeology, and language to the listeners in a way they can understand. She will address leadership and hope through examining the life of Debra in the Book of Judges.
Attendees will receive complimentary childcare services.
Other offerings to the community include regular Sunday worship and bible studies throughout the week. The congregation also invests in children and youth as they are the future. They also feed the community, which is a big part of the church’s mission because there is such a big need for feeding programs.
More recently, our outreach committee is exploring new and innovative ways we can fight hunger in the Ruston community and beyond
To find out more about the lecture series or to sign up for it, call (318) 251-0750 or go online to www.trinityruston.org/
New Chick-fil-A® restaurant is now accepting applications for a variety of positions as it prepares to open this fall
WHAT: Chick-fil-A Natchitoches, which plans to open later this fall, is looking to hire 100 part-time and full-time Team Members. The roles span from a variety of positions including back-of-house, front-of-house, leadership and more. Operator Leigh Ann Gilley is excited to bring a new restaurant to the community and share the many benefits of working at Chick-fil-A.
Chick-fil-A is known for hiring, developing and retaining top talent, and providing a positive work environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. Working in a Chick-fil-A restaurant offers the opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a fast-paced environment. In addition to competitive pay and benefits, Chick-fil-A restaurants offer:
“We’re excited to welcome 100 Team Members to Chick-fil-A Natchitoches,” said Gilley. “Working at a Chick-fil-A restaurant is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. We look forward to building a team focused on creating a welcoming environment for our guests and making a positive impact on the Natchitoches community.”
WHEN: From Monday, Oct. 24 to restaurant opening (fall 2022)
WHERE: Chick-fil-A Natchitoches 440 Keyser Ave., Natchitoches, LA 71457
HOW: Applicants interested can text “MYPLEASURE” to (337) 509-0022 to apply.
You’re invited to join Coach Mike McConathy, his wife Connie, their family, and many friends at the Natchitoches Events Center Thursday for an announcement event officially launching his campaign for the Louisiana State Senate representing District 31.
The event is reception-style, running from 4:30-7 p.m., with a short program expected to tip off at about 6 o’clock. Attire is casual. Light refreshments will be served. There is no admission charge.
After concluding a remarkable career as an educator and basketball coach that began in the late 1970s, McConathy is continuing his lifelong commitment to being a servant-leader.
The vibrant 66-year-old Bossier City native and Louisiana Tech University graduate is the winningest college basketball coach in state history, with 682 victories in 39 seasons as head coach at Bossier Parish Community College (1983-99) and Northwestern State University (1999-2022). The number of wins is just one measure of his far-reaching impact not only on campus but in communities around northwest Louisiana.
The new District 31 has roughly 70 percent of its population located in Bossier, Caddo, Natchitoches and Sabine parishes, with portions of Webster, Bienville, DeSoto, Red River, Rapides and Winn included. That fits the geographic footprint which was the base of McConathy’s recruiting area and team rosters at NSU and Bossier Parish Community College.
District 31 has been served by Senator Louis Bernard, who announced this summer that he will not be seeking reelection.
McConathy grew up with a first-hand perspective on public service. His father, John McConathy, was the Bossier Parish Superintendent of Schools for 20 years and later was a key collaborator in the development of the modern Bossier Parish Community College campus between U.S. 80 and I-20 in Bossier City.
Among his accolades, the former NSU coach is enshrined in the university’s Hall of Distinguished Educators for his service as a faculty member at Northwestern, and in 2012 he earned an elite Pillar of Education award from the National Association of Basketball Coaches for leading the Demons’ program into continuing educational outreach in area schools. His program was noted for its wide-ranging community service endeavors, and its academic performance – a remarkable 90 percent of his players earned degrees at NSU.
For questions, information, call Mike McConathy, 318-792-1541
Natchitoches Event Center
Doors open at 4:30 – 7:00
Light refreshments – Casual
Get Ready for A Great TappedTober
The Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Foundation is working behind the scenes to finalize all the great plans for this year’s 4th Annual TappedTober Craft Beer and Wine Festival. Get ready for the best TappedTober yet! The event takes place this Saturday, October 15th in downtown Natchitoches along the famous Cane River! – Beer & wine tasting, college football, kids zone, mechanical bull, fireworks and music.
We are saddened to find out that Tracy Lawrence has an unexpected illness that has canceled all of his performances this weekend.
“Natchitoches! Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am unable to perform at this incredible fundraiser for the NRMC Cancer Center. Please continue to support their efforts and all they do.” -Tracy Lawrence
But never fear we have scheduled Tracy for the 2023 TappedTober.
Now the great news. In addition to the amazing talents of Nashville breakout artist HunterGirl and Bossier’s own David Daniels, we’ve locked in a legendary singer-songwriter and performer. Grammy award-winning Pam Tillis is coming with her six Number One hits, seventeen Top Ten Hits, three County Music Association awards (including Female Vocalist of the Year), platinum albums, Grand Ole Opry membership, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer.
Gates open at Noon with college football on the big screen, beer and wine tasting from 2:00 to 5:00 pm and music begins at 5:00 pm, so don’t be late.
We are deeply grateful to our Title Sponsor – Cane River Waterway Commission, our Entertainment Sponsor – Cunningham Financial Group and Ameriprise Financial and VIP Experience Sponsor – Vaughn Chevrolet of Natchitoches and appreciate all of their generous support.
We also want to welcome our VIPs and encourage them to take full advantage of the Ultimate VIP Experience, sponsored by. VIP guests receive access to our private pavilion fully catered with your own TVs, premier eating, and premium VIP “Front Row” stage access.
We greatly appreciate all our sponsors and ticket holders and their support. Proceeds from the event will help fund the addition of the PET scanner at the NRMC Cancer Center. Cancer cells show up as bright spots on PET scans due to their high metabolic activity. This type of imaging is an important tool for detecting cancer and can also be used by doctors to assess whether or not a particular cancer has spread. Thank you to everyone for helping make this technology a reality here in Natchitoches.
AS A TEAM LEADER, YOU WILL:
REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:
BENEFITS:
We offer medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. We also provide flexible time-off plans, including parental leave, vacation, and holiday leave.
Shift is 11:00 p.m. until 7:30 a.m. Overtime requirements are based on customer needs to meet business objectives.
If qualified and interested, please apply online at www.emerson.com
Equal Opportunity Employer
Emerson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
AS A QUALITY ENGINEER, YOU WILL:
• Investigate quality defects and perform RCA
• Lead and/or contribute to structured problem-solving for corrective and preventive actions
• Analyze no-conformance trends and evaluate the effectiveness of CAPA
• Identify improvement opportunities and drive actions for improvement by analyzing manufacturing processes and conducting process capability analysis
• Lead initiatives to improve non-conformance PPM and cost of quality
• Perform new product and process qualifications
• Direct quality support team members engaged in measuring and testing products and tabulating data concerning product or process quality
REQUIRED EDUCTION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:
• BS degree in engineering or engineering technology with exposure to quality and lean manufacturing, plus two years of related experience
• Strong interpersonal skills with hourly, engineering and management
• Strong computer skills required
If qualified and interested, please apply online at http://www.emerson.com
BENEFITS:
We offer medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. We also provide you flexible time-off plans, including parental leave, vacation, and holiday leave.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Emerson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
AS A MANUFACTURING ENGINEER, YOU WILL:
REQUIRED EDUCTION, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:
If qualified and interested, please apply online at www.emerson.com
BENEFITS:
We offer medical insurance plans, dental and vision coverage, 401(k), tuition reimbursement and more. We also provide you flexible time-off plans, including parental leave, vacation, and holiday leave.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Emerson is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability or protected veteran status.
Between April 26 and May 10, 2022, two jet skis were removed from a storage area located off Highway 71/84 in south Red River Parish. One was a 1998 red Kawasaki and the other was a 2012 blue Yamaha along with a white double trailer that carried both jet skis.
Entrance was gained by cutting the chain to a locked gate. The matter is being investigated by the Red River Parish Sheriffs office.
A reward is being offered to the anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the theft.
REWARD OFFER: $1,000.00
CONTACT: The office of Red River Parish Sheriff Glen Edwards
PHONE: 318-932-6701
* All Callers will remain anonymous.
When he left Northwestern State In March as the winningest college basketball coach in state history, Bossier City native Mike McConathy wasn’t sure what the future held.
Three months later, he’s considering scratching an old itch. McConathy, who counts Louisiana Political Hall of Famer and longtime influential state legislator Billy Montgomery of Haughton among his primary mentors, is considering running for the state Senate in a redesigned district spanning parts of 10 parishes in northwest Louisiana.
With the anticipated revamp of Senate District 31, incumbent Sen. Louie Bernard of Natchitoches announced last week he will not seek a second term. Bernard previously served 24 years as Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court and after over 40 years of public service, the still energetic 71-year-old said he’s going to serve out his term until 2023 and enjoy family life.
McConathy grew up with a first-hand perspective on public service. His father, John McConathy, was the Bossier Parish Superintendent of Schools for 20 years and later was a key collaborator in the development of the modern Bossier Parish Community College campus between U.S. 80 and I-20 in Bossier City.
Among his accolades, the former NSU coach is enshrined in the university’s Hall of Distinguished Educators for his service as a faculty member at Northwestern, and in 2012 he earned an elite Pillar of Education award from the National Association of Basketball Coaches for leading the Demons’ program into continuing educational outreach in area schools. His program was noted for its wide-ranging community service endeavors, and its academic performance – a remarkable 90 percent of his players earned degrees at NSU.
“This is something that has been on the back of my mind for quite some time, because I’ve known people who have served and are serving in Baton Rouge who have made a tremendously positive impact for the people they represented, and for the entire state, for that matter,” said McConathy.
“When Louie made his announcement, I had quite a few friends suggest I ought to consider this. I’m now in the process of visiting with people who have a real understanding of political life and public service,” he said, “along with many dear friends and most of all, my family members, so I can make the best possible decision for all concerned.”
The new District 31 has roughly 70 percent of its population located in Bossier, Caddo, Natchitoches and Sabine parishes, with portions of Webster, Bienville, DeSoto, Red River, Rapides and Winn included. That fits the geographic footprint which was the base of McConathy’s recruiting area and team rosters from 1999-2022 at NSU and for 16 years previously at Bossier Parish Community College.
“Some people might wonder how my career in coaching would translate to serving in Baton Rouge in a legislative body, in the political arena. In coaching, to succeed you have to nurture relationships with a variety of people from high school and college students, to colleagues and opponents, throughout a campus community and a fan base with avid alumni of all ages and backgrounds. You have to listen, you have to be responsive, you have to collaborate, and at the same time, you cannot compromise your values and your integrity.
“We all know politics can be a tough business to navigate, now more than ever. Heck, I’ve spent over 40 years trying to find middle ground with the referees,” he laughed. “As long as we understand each other, we can find paths to the best possible outcomes.”
McConathy said if he runs, he would do so as an independent, not affiliated with a political party. The only announced candidate so far is Shreveport Republican state Rep. Alan Seabaugh, who has served in the state House since 2010 but is term limited there.
Photo by CHRIS REICH, Northwestern State
Between April 26 and May 10, 2022, two jet skis were removed from a storage area located off Highway 71/84 in south Red River Parish. One was a 1998 red Kawasaki and the other was a 2012 blue Yamaha along with a white double trailer that carried both jet skis.
Entrance was gained by cutting the chain to a locked gate. The matter is being investigated by the Red River Parish Sheriffs office.
A reward is being offered to the anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the theft.
REWARD OFFER: $1,000.00
CONTACT: The office of Red River Parish Sheriff Glen Edwards
PHONE: 318-932-6701
* All Callers will remain anonymous.
Students who aren’t sure where they’ll go to college this fall are encouraged to apply for the Journal Services NSU Scholarships, which will award three new Northwestern State University students up to $3,000 in the next school year.
Applications are being accepted beginning today through midnight June 8. A link to a simple online application form is available at the bottom of this story.
The scholarships are designed to assist Class of 2022 high school students who haven’t settled on a college choice, as well as students currently enrolled at other higher-education institutions who are considering transferring to NSU in Natchitoches.
They are being provided by Journal Services, LLC, the business that serves local and area residents by providing the framework for the DeSoto Parish Journal. Journal Services, LLC, is based in Natchitoches and supports 12 journals covering north central and northwest Louisiana.
“We know there are students who haven’t decided yet where they’ll go to college this fall. We know that in many cases, money is a key factor in making college accessible,” said Bill Vance, general manager of Journal Services, LLC. “We are providing three game-changing scholarships bringing eager students to NSU to take advantage of the excellent academic programs here, and to live in a community where there are plenty of opportunities to find part-time jobs and to have a great student experience.”
A successful applicant from DeSoto Parish will join 252 other local students who attend Northwestern. Among the university’s 81,000 alumni, 1,057 currently live in DeSoto Parish.
Applicants are asked to provide their high school GPA (and college GPA if applicable), and also, report their ACT score along with listing honors, extracurricular activities and other relevant information on the form. That information will provide a basis for selecting the three winners.
The scholarship awards are for $1,500 cash per semester in the 2022-23 academic year. To renew the scholarship for the Spring 2023 semester, winners must post at least a 2.7 Fall semester GPA at NSU.
Scholarship winners must live in Natchitoches Parish during the upcoming school year. They are also required to have in-person, face-to-face instruction for 75 percent of their classes in 2022-23.
Students who have already accepted financial aid awards from Northwestern are not eligible to apply.
APPLICATION: To Apply – Click Here
April 21, 2022 at 10:38:36 AM CDT
The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and DeSoto Parish School Board have been made aware of numerous alerts/calls being sent through a third party application regarding “Bomb Threats” to local schools. DeSoto, Caddo, and Bossier Parish Schools have all received similar alerts, and Deputies have responded to all schools to ensure safety, as a precaution. We do not believe there is any merit to these alerts, and they appear to be a hoax at this time. These messages are currently under investigation. We want to alert the public as to avoid confusion and/or rumor.
March 30, 2022 at 11:24:30 AM CDT
10 miles east of Mansfield, right along I-49, a tornado rotation has been spotted and headed toward Coushatta. If you are in that area you need to take cover now.
Shared from the DeSoto Parish Sheriffs Office app at https://apps.myocv.com/share/a36471052
Senator Louie Bernard advises the public of impending changes to election laws in Louisiana and the history of integrity of Louisiana Elections and the Elections systems presently in place. Senator Bernard reassures the public of our present election process and the need or lack of need to change our system.
Senator Bernard updates the public regarding his new Senatorial District and the process of how the lines for not only his district was redrawn but also how Natchitoches Parish was divided into 3 separate House of Representative Districts
UPDATE
FIRE UPDATE: CONTAINED – STAY ALERT
THE FORESTRY DEPT. NOW CONFIRMS THAT THE FIRE (IN THE AREA OF BINNING/MARR ROADS) IS NOW 100% CONTAINED. WE ASK THAT AREA RESIDENTS REMAIN ALERT FOR ANY FIRES SPREADING IN YOUR AREA. RESIDENTS CAN BE ASSURED OF THEIR SAFETY NOW, AND WE THANK EVERYONE ON THE GROUND FOR THEIR HARD WORK IN STOPPING THE SPREAD OF THIS FIRE.
***PLEASE BE REMINDED THAT A STATE WIDE BURN BAN REMAINS IN EFFECT.
STAY ALERT. STAY SAFE.
ORIGINAL
Dispatchers have received multiple calls regarding smoke in two areas near Mansfield, LA. We want to update the public to let you know that we are aware, and what is going on.
– In the area of Marr Road in Mansfield, there is a large fire reported. This is not a controlled burn, and Fire Districts are on scene at this time. Wind conditions have made for a lot of smoke in that area.
– In the area of the Town and Country Apartments (behind) there is a very large controlled burn that is contained at this time. Expect smoke in this area as well.
**As a reminder, DeSoto Parish and many surrounding Parishes are under a Burn Ban at this time due to dry conditions. Stay Safe!
Happy New Year from the Pleasant Hill Battle committee. They are beginning to get organized for the annual re-enactment of the Battle of Pleasant Hill. That was the last major victory for the Confederacy in the Civil War.
The committee said, “It is officially Battle season for our committee! Planning never stops and is year round but when January hits things start to get busy!
The annual event will be the second weekend of April. If you have never been it is quite a show. In addition to the battle re-enactment, there are many other events to make it a great family weekend.
The committee said, “Our website will be updated soon with all of the information you’ll need to know to plan your visit and support our re-enactment.”
The first production of 2022 at the Back Alley Theatre in Grand Cane will run February 11th through 19th.
Welcome to a Saturday Night Gospel Sing at a country church in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains in 1938. This musical play features two dozen rousing bluegrass songs played and sung by the Sanders Family. This traveling group is making its return to performing after a five-year hiatus.
Performances will be February 11, 12, 13 and 17, 18, and 19. Showtimes are at 7:00 PM each day. There is a matinee on Sunday February 13 at 2:00 PM. Admission is $15 per person.
By Teddy Allen
Last year began in bizarre fashion at the U.S. Capitol with a mass breaking-and-entering that included a guy dressed up like either Buffalo Bill or an elk that Buffalo Bill had bagged. Dude had paint on and everything, like he was going to a Buffalo Bills game.
Then it ended with the passing at age 99 of the priceless, charming, beautiful Betty White, our devilishly funny, loveable, television great-grandmomma.
So no, 2021 was not the greatest year, sort of like the maiden voyage of the Titanic wasn’t the greatest boat ride.
But there were some good things, especially if you were named new head football coach at LSU. Friends of the university paid the fired coach $17 million to leave and hired a new one — Brian Kelly of Notre Dame — for 10 years at $95 million, give or take.
That’s serious dough, but the incentives are what put this contract over the top.
For every full season Kelly lasts, he receives an extra $500,000 the next July;
If he wins a championship, he gets an extra $500,000;
If LSU is bowl eligible — and the Tigers have been every year since 1999 — he gets an extra $500,000. Because who couldn’t use an extra $500,000, right?
And all this time I’d thought your salary was your incentive, at least your main one.
Not so when it comes to corporate ’Murica. Then it’s all Monopoly money.
In addition to incentives, the LSU coach gets an allowance – 50 hours of travel each year on LSU’s planes and a loan of $1.2 million for a house and two cars, interest free (as if!).
Good for him.
Plus, if LSU wins a title and later fires him, the school owes him 100 percent of his remaining salary. If he’s fired without cause and hasn’t won a title, the school owes him 90 percent of his remaining salary, which he’ll have to figure out a way to squeak by on.
Gnaw on those numbers for a moment: this means that with no titles won — say by 2026 — the school could fire him, would have invested $50 million for nothing, and would still be on the hook for about $40 million more. Kelly’s agent must be descended from the people way back in the day who negotiated for Manhattan Island and the Louisiana Purchase.
We all know the money in college coaching has reached boggle-the-brain levels, but this amount of mostly guaranteed money for a decade is hard to conceive, especially with the new NIL and transfer portal phenomenon still working themselves out.
True, LSU has more than a few rich and loyal supporters, but that’s a lot of football money. So much is invested in the coach, it’s going to be nearly impossible to fire him. Is there any way you think this will turn out well?
(Yeah, me either.)
But good for people making as much money as others are willing to pay, and who am I to tell super-rich people how to spend their money? So … good luck.
Kelly’s giant payday inspired me to check my own contract to see if A) I had one and B) if there were any incentives in there. Like, turn in a story without typos and I get a box of Moon Pies. A small box, but a box just the same.
Or write something that makes at least a little sense, I get an oil change. Write something semi-poetic and BOOM!, Cracker Barrel gift card.
Tried. Didn’t happen for me. Kelly gets incentives; my salary — I’m a big food and shelter guy — is my incentive.
Kelly gets an interest-free car loan. If I do not pay my non-interest-free car note on time, I have to pay a late fee; there’s my incentive again — avoiding a late fee.
And I’m scared to ask the bosses about a buyout; they might cut my salary and give me more work to do, sort of a buyout in reverse.
So I have incentives. Just not the same as Kelly and a lot of other coaches.
But on the bright side in my world, sometimes I get a Saturday off. And, I’m not responsible for beating Alabama.
times I get a Saturday off. And, I’m not responsible for beating Alabama.
Contact Teddy at teddy@latech.edu