There’s a new sign in front of The Harrington Law Firm office. Pay special attention to the brick columns holding it up. They have a history all their own.

The columns were built using bricks from the Standard Oil pumping station in Flora that was built around the turn of the last century.

In fact, Rodney Harrington grew up in “The Station Yard,” in one of the little houses the company built for its workers back in the day. In the mid-60s, Rodney’s parents bought the property that included a big old brick pumping station building. They had it torn down to salvage the bricks, some of which were used to build a house on the property.

“Those huge piles of bricks became a source of revenue for my brothers and I,” said Rodney. “We would ‘clean’ the bricks, which was chipping the excess cement and mortar off them using hammers, chisels, picks, and hatchets. May sound like prison work, but we got paid! Dad would pay us a penny for each and every brick we cleaned. A whole cent!”

If Rodney worked really hard and had a good day, and didn’t encounter too many scorpions or snakes, he could clean as many as 300-400 bricks.

“I’ll let you do the math,” Rodney joked. “I remember waiting with great anticipation for Daddy to come home so I could proudly show him my neatly stacked prize of freshly cleaned bricks, and of course to collect my loot.”

Some of those very bricks are included in the columns holding up the new sign on Jefferson Street.

“Each day when I pull in the parking lot and see those columns, they remind me of where I came from, and the lessons our parents taught us boys about the value of hard, honest work,” he said.

The bricks are foundations for the sign, but to Rodney they represent the strong foundations his parents instilled in their children, the same foundations Rodney and his wife Jan have tried to instill in their children.

“I didn’t know it at the time, but I was getting a lot more than one penny for my labors,” said Rodney.

The Harrington Law Firm has offices in Natchitoches, Many and Leesville. They can be reached at 318-352-5900 or at http://www.theharringtonlawfirm.com
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Nathan and Eva Leach, a musically gifted sibling duo from Charleston, SC, are the grandchildren and Natchitoches residents Bill and Alice Bryant.

A song cover of “Hero” by Family of the Year published on Youtube in 2013 went viral with well over 2 million views. America fell in love with their soulful song selections. As of 2017, the video has over 18 million views.

The music bug runs in the family. Dr. Bill Bryant was inducted into the Louisiana Folklife Center’s Hall of Master Folk Artists in 2001. Some of the duo’s videos feature family members. Their sound melds bluegrass and folk featuring an organic sound that comes from the instruments they play, instead of relying on electronic beats. Their mother plays violin and their father plays bass. Bill is an expert dulcimer player.

Nathan and Eva will perform at this year’s Folk Festival on Saturday, July 15 from 12:45-1:45 on the East Stage in Prather Coliseum.

The 38th annual Natchitoches-Northwestern Folk Festival will be held July 14-15 in Prather Coliseum on the Northwestern State University campus. Festival hours are 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday.
Tickets are $13 for an advance all-events pass through July 11. Advance tickets are free for children 12 and under. Tickets are available at the door for $6 for Friday night, $10 for all day Saturday or $6 for Saturday after 5 p.m.

Magnolia Spa and Wellness of Natchitoches is home to an array of health and wellness services. One of the many delights offered to those who visit the staff at Magnolia Spa and Wellness is the healing art of Massage Therapy.

Massage therapy has been practiced all over the world since ancient times. Massage is a manual therapy that manipulates the soft tissues of the body, resulting in the release of dopamine and serotonin in the body. These are the body’s natural feel good chemicals; Massage literally makes your body happy!

Many who are unfamiliar with the boundless benefits of Massage, consider Massage Therapy to be a luxury. Science, however, has proven the multitudinous advantages Massage Therapy provides toward overall health. One hour of Swedish Massage can provide the body with as much cellular restoration and invigoration as a full eight hours of good sleep! The perks to massage are  seemingly limitless, when performed by a knowledgeable professional.

All massage services at Magnolia Spa and Wellness are provided by some of the most skilled and highly qualified Massage Therapists in the state. Felicia Maxey, LMT and Amanda Dordell, LMT each have over seven years of experience in multiple forms of Massage Therapy, as well as being established members of the American Massage Therapy Association.

Felicia, who specializes in healing and rehabilitative modalities such as Chronic Pain Management, Aromatherapy, and even Oncology Massage, offers her skills to guests at Magnolia Spa and Wellness with the hopes of helping to improve the quality of life for each individual she encounters.

Amanda, who specializes in restorative modalities such as Sports, Prenatal, and Deep Tissue massage, provides patrons a soothing experience that will leave them rejuvenated.

Magnolia Spa and Wellness invites you to experience the unforgettable world of restorative bodywork provided by outstanding, knowledgeable professionals, who have hearts, and hands, designed for healing!

If you would like to make an appointment, call 318-238-2843

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The Many Police Department investigated a one-vehicle accident July 6 involving damage to a local business. Apparently, the driver of a 2010 Ford pickup hit the accelerator instead of the brake while parking at the Sabine Medical Center building located on South Capitol Street, causing heavy damage to both the vehicle and the building. No injuries were reported.

Hope abides at the Jesus Lifted Ministries Community Center. Administrators Mark and Pamela Lockridge invite the Natchitoches community to join them for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Chamber of Commerce Thursday, July 13 at 5:30 pm at 99 South Drive, Ste. B. Enjoy a DJ, Johnny’s Pizza and learn about the list of activities the Community Center has to offer (SEE DOCUMENT BELOW).

“Our motto is based on Jesus’ command to love our neighbor as ourselves,” said Pamela. “Community Unity Through Love for One Another: Because love never fails on the mountaintop or in the valley. We all need God’s love.”

Some amenities offered at the center include a wifi cafe with drinks, low-impact exercise and holistic fitness classes, prayer breakfasts, game nights and more.

“I see this Community Center as a bit of light in the community shining out,” said Mark. Pamela said they want to give people something more to do. They offer a distraction from the world where people can get away from social media and actually socialize.

Jesus Lifted Ministries is a nonprofit organization with a goal to connect evangelists from each state in America to form a delegation from around the nation – that will strategically begin a dynamic wave of Spirit-filled evangelism across America. Future goals include building an evangelism conference center in Robeline to refresh and care for God’s leaders as they care for others. The center will have sleeping and dining rooms, a library, prayer rooms, swimming area, RV Park, laundry room and laundry service, fitness center, prayer garden, conference rooms, and more.

Mark and his wife have been married 34 years. They live in the Rocky Mount area near Robeline. They have two children, three grandchildren and one more on the way.

The Lockridges feel that America is presently failing where evangelism is concerned. America needs its’ Ambassadors for Christ to awake and see the dire need of evangelism that will only come through strategic intercession and cheerful giving.

The Community Center is open Monday-Saturday from 7-11 am and 1-4 pm. The hours of 11 am – 1 pm are reserved for support group meetings. Volunteers and board members are needed and donations are welcome. For more information call 318-413-1874, email pamela@jesusliftedministries.com or go online to http://www.jesusliftedministries.com.

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Anderson’s Produce and Plant Farm would like to introduce you to another of their cheerful, helpful customer assistants. Caroline Canatella is the one you will meet at Anderson’s stand at the Shreveport Farmers’ Market in Festival Plaza.

Canatella is shown above working at Anderson’s main stand at Lake End on Highway 174. Caroline is wearing the necklace. Her co-worker is Bailey LeGrande who is at the Main stand daily. Whether at the main stand or weekend farmers markets in Natchitoches and Shreveport, Anderson’s Produce always has fresh-picked vegetables at the peak of flavor.

Farmer Jason Anderson thanks the spring and summer weather for a bumper crop of tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, and a great number of other items. Anderson said, “It was so wet we had trouble picking in the fields just a few weeks ago. Now it is so hot you can barely stand it!”

“We are into July and the weather is starting to heat up. This will be the last month the fresh fruits and veggies will be available.” added Anderson.

Come to the farm, Anderson’s Produce and Plant Farm, located half way between LA 1 and I-49 on Highway 174. Give them a call at 932-1432. Andersons is open Monday through Saturday 8 am to 5 pm.

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Photos by Carolyn Mathews Gandy

A Swearing In ceremony was held June 30 for Mayor Ken Freeman, the Many City Council, Chief of Police Roger Freeman, city police officers, city staff and airport director. Judge Elizabeth Pickett administered the oaths of office as family, friends and interested citizens looked on. City Clerk Carolyn Ricks was honored and recognized for her many years of service. She retired today.

 

Posted: June 30th

Ladonta Carter, male, 20, arrested on charges of Zwolle Police Department warrants, by Zwolle Police Department.

Colin Cormier, white male, 28, arrested on charges of Sabine Parish warrant, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Brandon White, male, 19, arrested on charges of domestic abuse battery, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s office.

Laquitha Walker, female, 20, arrested on charges of aggravated assault, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Melvin Pippin Sr., male, 60, arrested on charges of Sabine Parish bench warrant, possession of schedule I, by Many Police Department.

Harold Cortez Wolfe, male, 35, arrested on charges of State Probation violation, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Bryan Keith Sigler, male, 32, arrested on charges of Parish Probation violation, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Parker B Spilker, male, 26, arrested on charges of 2-Many Bench warrants,.

Dronte Trevill Turner, male, 22, arrested on charges of Zwolle warrant for theft under $750, Zwolle warrant for simple escape, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Bradford Dewitt Patrick, male, 32, arrested on charges of Many Bench warrant, by Many Police Department.

Rusty Dean Tolley, male, 35, arrested on charges of Many Bench warrant, by Many Police Department.

Albert Lee Kimbrough, male, 33, arrested on charges of Many Bench warrant, by Many Police Department.

Destinie D. Newton, male, 25, arrested on charges of Florien Bench warrant, by Florien Police Department.

David Dawson Grimes, male, 42, arrested on charges of Sabine Parish warrant for theft over $750, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Jarrett Randall Rogers, male, 37, arrested on charges of Domestic abuse battery, simple kidnapping, criminal trespass, disturbing the peace by intoxication, resisting, by Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Any indication of arrest does not mean does not mean the individual identified has be convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are innocent until proven in a court of law.

The Many Police Department asked for public assistance on June 30. They are attempting to identify three individuals (two female/one male) that were shopping at Walmart on Tuesday evening (June 27). The MPD believes these individuals might be witnesses and have information on an incident that took place at the store between 6-7 pm. They are believed to be traveling in a white Lincoln Town Car that is also pictured. If you can identify these subjects, please contact the MPD at 318-256-5617.

July 8th will be a great day to bring the family to downtown Natchitoches as we continue Destination Downtown Natchitoches. You won’t want to miss our Margarita Tasting Event and FIREWORKS! Check out the full schedule below.

SATURDAY – July 8th
North End of Front Street
Margarita Tasting Event
Tickets go on sale at 1:00pm and can be purchased by the stage.
Tickets are $25 and will entitle you to a margarita served in a 12 oz cup from each of our 4 participating restaurants.
Watermelon Eating Contest – 4:30pm
Live music starts at 1:30pm
LaCour Bros Trio- 1:30pm-4:30pm
Katalyst – 5:00pm-9:00pm

FIREWORKS – 9:00pm
Fireworks will be shot on the north end. Spectators may enjoy the fireworks from Beau Jardin or Front Street. (PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO FIREWORKS ON JULY 4TH)

Enjoy face painting, FREE Inflatables for the kids, lawn games (corn hole, jenga, etc) and MORE!

Don’t forget your lawn chair!

Contact Jill Leo at 318.652.7078 for more information or visit our website at http://www.ddnatty.com

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By Kenneth Gautreaux, LSU AgCenter

With a theme of “Out of this World,” nearly 1,500 4-H’ers from across the state attended the 103rd 4-H University, held on the LSU campus in Baton Rouge June 20-23.

Pictured above, State 4-H officers, from left, Patrick Cormier, Stanley Celestine Jr., Taylor Goss and Jill Wiltz bestow medals on 4-H’ers who placed in contests during the closing ceremony of the 103rd annual 4-H University on June 22. Photo by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter

In the competitive contests, youth contended for educational trips to the Gulf Coast, West Virginia and Dallas. They also vied for the right to represent Louisiana 4-H in several national competitions and cash prizes.

The following state 4-H officers were elected:

President: Brittney Lea, Bienville Parish
Vice President: Westin Cobb, Livingston Parish
Secretary: Heather Goss, Calcasieu Parish
Historian/Reporter: Antavion Moore, Bienville Parish
Parlimentarian: Gavyn Stephens, Iberia Parish

Contest winners were:
4-H Has Talent: Samyra Miller, Orleans Parish.
Agriculture Demo: Collin Barrios and Gabriel LoCoco, St. Charles Parish
ATV: Ethan Coker, Claiborne Parish.
Automotive: Olivia Beauvais, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Automotive (Team): Dylan Andre and Olivia Beauvais, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Career Preparation Interview: Casey Williams, Vernon Parish.
Child Development: Ja’Darius Williams, Sabine Parish.
Compact Tractor: John Hains, Acadia Parish.
Computer Simulation: Samuel Hollier and Evan Miller, Evangeline Parish.
Consumer Decision Making: Emily Aguillard, Brooke Glaser and Lexi Sellars, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Consumer Food Judging: Hollyn Guidroz, Carly Loupe and Katie Louviere, Lafourche Parish.
Dairy Judging: Jacob Martin, Lafayette Parish.
Dairy Judging (Team): Jacob Martin, Ryann Simon and Nathan Thompson, Lafayette Parish.
Diesel Operations: Joshua Becnel, Lafourche Parish.
Dog Science: Trace Presley, St. Mary Parish.
Entomology Demonstration: Kelbi Lashare and John-Michael Shiner, Vermilion Parish.
Environmental Conservation Illustrated Talk: Gaven Guidry, Terrebonne Parish.
Fashion Review-Casual: Jodie Perry, Caddo Parish.
Fashion Review-Creative Choice: Alexis Hanson, Winn Parish.
Fashion Review-Designer’s Choice: Chloé Litteral, Calcasieu Parish.
Fashion Review-Ready-to-Wear: Anna Little, Winn Parish.
Family and Consumer Sciences Demonstration: Saydie Rusk and Martin Vanderlick, Avoyelles Parish.
Fishing Sports: Cameron Nicholas, Avoyelles Parish.
Fishing Sports (Team): Dylan Breaux, Garret Broussard and Margaret Higginbotham, Acadia Parish.
Forestry: Clay Zaunbrecher, Vermilion Parish.
Horticulture Demonstration-General: Ashlyn Jeansonne and Avia Laborde, Avoyelles Parish.
Horticulture Demonstration-Use: Maeleigh Conner and Marley Thibodeaux, Cameron Parish.
Horticulture Judging: Bet Lee, Vermilion Parish.
Horticulture Judging (Team): Alex Bedwell, William Dailey and Bret Lee, Vermilion Parish.
Insect Identification: Alec Plaisance, Lafourche Parish.
Meat Identification: Emily Lanie, Lafayette Parish.
Meat Identification (Team): John-Garrett Patrick, Nicholaus Pryor and Sadi White, Concordia Parish.
Outdoor Skills: Reed Bearden, Bossier Parish.
Outdoor Skills (Team): Connor Arthur, Navy Britt and Gabriel Marr, Sabine Parish.
Photography: Skylar Henry, Jeff Davis Parish.
Plant Science: Ann Borel, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Plant Science (Team): Ann Borel, Dylan LeBlanc and Maycee Steib, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Poultry Judging: Lauren Gauthier, Avoyelles Parish.
Poultry Judging (Team): Maddie Bordelon, Zack Duncan and Lauren Gauthier, Avoyelles Parish.
Public Speaking (Any Subject): Stanley Celestine, Avoyelles Parish.
Public Speaking (Cooperative): Brooke Firmin, Avoyelles Parish
Solutions Unlimited: Alan Fitts, Ann Smith and Myranda Smith, Grant Parish.
Soybean Illustrated Talk: Caroline Doise, Jefferson Davis Parish.
Sports Broadcasting: Elise Jackson and Conrad Tempanaro, Iberville Parish.
Teens Driving Teens to Safety: Alana Duhon and Sydney Guidry, Vermilion Parish.
The Louisiana Chef: Christopher Broussard and Ty Hebert, Vermilion Parish.
The Next 4-H Food Star: Caroline Benedict, Sarah Cline and Sophie Elliot, Pointe Coupee Parish.
Wildlife Habitat Judging: Bridget Seghers, St. Tammany Parish.

The theme of this year’s Folk Festival is “Keeping Tradition Alive!” Theresa Morgan will certainly be following that theme as she passes along information about the tradition of the Maypole! She has graciously volunteered to present two demonstrations of the Maypole tradition in hopes of keeping this tradition alive.

When was the last time you participated in a Maypole dance and wrapped the pole? Never participated in one? Never seen one? Well, bring the children and let them experience it first-hand. Demonstrations of this timeless tradition will be held at 10 am and 2 pm on July 15.

Attending a “May Tea Party” with her daughter prompted Morgan to begin having a similar event for her daughter and her friends. Shortly after, the Isle Brevelle Garden Club was formed. The Garden Club would meet annually to exchange plants and packets of seeds. Tea and sandwiches were served for refreshments and attendees would wrap a Maypole. Instead of the Green Party being for children only, it also included parents. Children as well as adults enjoy this annual tradition.

The 38th annual Natchitoches-Northwestern Folk Festival will be held July 14-15 in Prather Coliseum on the Northwestern State University campus. Festival hours are 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Tickets are $13 for an advance all-events pass through July 11. Advance tickets are free for children 12 and under. Tickets are available at the door for $6 for Friday night, $10 for all day Saturday or $6 for Saturday after 5 p.m.