Canadian driver collects 73 charges, including assault on an officer; Ferriday felon accused of murder

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

 

Jan. 12

Jessica Cruz, 42, Alexandria – OWI first offense, wrong way one way street, open container $1,200 bail;

Lance Alan Lacombe, 33, Deville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Clenard Earl Simmons Jr, 44, Alexandria – OWI first offense, producing, manufacturing or distributing controlled dangerous substance, possession of CDS, possession drug paraphernalia, legend drug possession without prescription, expired plate registration, no driver’s license, $2,200 bail.

 

Jan. 11

Laci Elizabeth Baker, 44, Jonesville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, failure to change address, $1,200 bail;

Serretta V. Byone, 56, Oakdale – criminal mischief, two counts contempt of court, $2,750 bail;

Lori Ann Crockette, 62, Pineville – OWI second offense, $1,500 bail;

Walter Austin Crooks, 28, Alexandria – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, possession of drug paraphernalia, contempt of court, $15,500 bail;

Ashley Ilene Reeves, 46, Deville — producing, manufacturing or distributing with intent controlled dangerous substance with child 12 years or younger present, five counts contempt of court, $16,000 bail;

Sawyer Adam Thompson, 27, Alexandria – two counts criminal damage to property, two counts criminal trespass, violation of protective orders (first, non-violent), unlawful communication via telephone harassing language, $2,500 bail;

Ohaji Walls, 22, Ball – OWI first offense, simple obstruction of highway, possession of controlled dangerous substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driver’s license not in possession, two counts contempt of court, $6,100 bail.

 

Jan. 10

Joshua Lynn Andries, 34, Hineston – possession of controlled dangerous substance, impersonation of a police officer, contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Christian Kade Cockerham, 29, Pineville – domestic battery with child present, fugitive in Louisiana, three counts contempt of court, $7,000 bail;

Ivan David Doyle, 40, Pineville – simple burglary, three counts contempt of court, $7,000 bail;

Chad Gonzales, 40, Lafayette – simple burglary, resisting an officer, $5,500 bail;

Randall Holmes, 35, Alexandria – violation of protection orders (non-violent, first), illegal possession of stolen firearm, concealed negligent carry, possession of controlled dangerous substance, two counts of resisting an officer, contempt of court, $9,000 bail.

Jammi Jhaderius Jefferson, 20, Alexandria – resisting an officer, remaining on the premises, contempt of court, $1,750 bail;

Donquerious Johnson, 25, Alexandria – cyberstalking through electronic mail, aggravated assault, aggravated assault on a peace officer, criminal mischief tampering with property, $16,000 bail;

Julia Byrd McDaniel, 42, Alexandria – theft up to $25,000, $1,000 bail;

Reginald Taylor Jr., 29, Alexandria – theft up to $5,000, $2,000 bail;

Trent Wright Jr., 23, Forest Hill – possession of controlled dangerous substance schedule 1, illegal carrying of weapons, $3,000 bail.

 

Jan. 9

Robert A. Ardoin, 29, Alexandria – two counts of felony theft, $5,000 bail;

Alise Lee Beauregard, 46, Alexandria – fugitive in Louisiana, no bond data;

Amanda Renee Cash, 42, Pineville – possession of controlled dangerous substance, drug paraphernalia, failure to pay, probation violation, $6,000 bail;

Myra Lee Hayes, 36, Alexandria – theft, extradition proceedings, $20,000 bail;

Lebaron Demond Johnson, 44, Alexandria – theft between $1,000-$5,000, $2,500 bail;

Mayon Dameko Jones Jr., 24, Ferriday – second-degree murder, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, parole violations, $700,000 bail;

Megan Lavespere, 33, Pineville – criminal trespass, battery on an officer, resisting an officer, criminal damage to property, $3,000 bail;

Terrance Levonta Leach, 30, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substances schedule 1 schedule 2 and schedule 4, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, resisting an officer, probation violation, two counts contempt of court, $65,500 bail;

Russell Paul Marceaux, 46, Alexandria – producing, manufacturing or distributing with intent controlled dangerous substance, producing, manufacturing or distributing of marijuana or other substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, $12,500 bail;

Kyan Keorri McNeal, 21, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance schedule 1 and schedule 2, illegal carry of firearm with drugs, $3,500 bail.

Brianna Lasha Russaw, 23, Alexandria – theft up to $5,000, probation violation, $25,000 bail

Kolby Tyler Wells, 26, Pollock – simple burglary, criminal damage to property, contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Calvin Joseph Wise, 46, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, failure to appear, probation violation, five counts contempt of court, $15,500 bail.

 

Jan. 8

Victor Joseph Coscarella, 35, New Castle, Canada – three counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer, flight from an officer, criminal damage to property, resisting an officer, taillights must emit a red light, 66 counts of turn lamp signal required, $92,200 bail;

Latasha Nicole Gold, 50, Lafayette – aggravated domestic abuse battery with child present, $2,500 bail;

Keisha Demetria Lacour, 50, Alexandria – theft up to $25,000, $2,000 bail;

Corey Dewayne Loucious, 44, Pineville – resisting an officer, remaining on premises, rear lamps and reflectors on bicycle, two counts contempt of court, $3,850 bail;

Kristie Denise Marquez, 47, Alexandria – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, open container, $1,700 bail;

Floyd Teril Molette, 48, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry of firearm with drugs, resisting an officer, improper bicycle operation, two counts contempt of court, $22,110 bail;

Christy Marie Pantallion, 40, Alexandria – aggravated assault, criminal damage to property, seven counts contempt of court, $14,750 bail;

George Hadley Vanzant, 32, Boyce – possession of controlled dangerous substance, permanent license plate rear of vehicle, $2,600 bail.


ASH Theatre to host Thespian Showcase Jan. 21

The ASH Theatre Department is heading to the Louisiana Thespian Festival. Thespian Troupe 731 has been hard at work preparing acting scenes, songs, and group musical theatre numbers in preparation for the big weekend. Come out to support their work at a showcase on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 6pm in the ASH Auditorium. Admission is free.


Littlepage Farms to host Happy Hour at Alex Farmers Market

The Alexandria Farmers Market invites the public to Join them this Tuesday, Jan. 14, at the Market 5-6pm as Littlepage Farms, vendors with over 60 years of experience in the pecan industry, host the Happy Hour at the farmer’s market. Their legacy in Louisiana agriculture has made Littlepage Farms synonymous with quality pecans, and their contributions have earned them numerous accolades throughout the years.

During Happy Hour, every purchase will grant the purchaser a raffle ticket for a prize to be determined, adding extra excitement to the shopping experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to support a storied tradition and enjoy some delicious pecans.


Oak Hill HS’s Skluzacek receives $14,000 grant for Robotics Program

The Rapides Parish School Board announced over the weekend that Mr. Alan Skluzacek was recently awarded a $14,000 grant for the Robotics Program at Oak Hill High School.
 
In just three years, the program has grown to seven teams, thanks to his vision and determination. With the generous support of RoyOMartin, a valued community partner, Oak Hill High School is fostering future champions in engineering.
 
The OHS Robotics Club, open to both middle and high school students, offers hands-on experience in STEM. Each summer, the school hosts a camp for elementary students to spark an early interest in technology and robotics.
 
“The kids are having a blast!” Mr. Skluzacek says. He also adds that the skills that students learn in robotics can be transferred to any career field, asserting that exposing children to these learning opportunities will positively impact our future workforce.

Make Your Dream Come True Day: Turning Goals into Reality

Make Your Dream Come True Day, celebrated on January 13, inspires individuals to take actionable steps toward achieving their aspirations. Whether the dream is to start a business, travel the world, or learn a new skill, this day encourages reflection, planning, and action.

Dreams often feel daunting, but breaking them into manageable goals can make them achievable. For example, a budding entrepreneur might start by creating a business plan, while someone aiming to travel could begin by saving money or researching destinations. The key is to focus on progress, not perfection.

Inspirational stories remind us that dreams are within reach. Consider J.K. Rowling, who faced numerous rejections before publishing the Harry Potter series, or Walt Disney, whose vision of Disneyland began with a sketch on a napkin. Their journeys highlight the importance of perseverance and belief in oneself.

Practical advice for pursuing dreams includes setting SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Sharing your aspirations with friends or mentors can also provide accountability and encouragement. Additionally, overcoming fear of failure is crucial; setbacks are often stepping stones to success.

Make Your Dream Come True Day invites everyone to take the first step toward something meaningful. Whether it’s a small action or a bold leap, the journey begins with the decision to try. By turning dreams into reality, we enrich our lives and inspire others to do the same.


Notice of Death – January 12, 2025

Judith “Judy” Ann Clifton
December 3, 1948 – January 11, 2025
Service: Saturday, January 18, 2025, 11am in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Donald Ray Byrd
June 10, 1944 – January 9, 2025
Service: Monday, January 13, 2025, 11am in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

Deanna C. Villard
September 4, 1939 – January 9, 2025
Service: Thursday, January 16, 2025, 12pm at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Dora Edith Dufour
November 13, 1945 – January 8, 2025
Service:  Monday, January 13, 2025, 12pm in the chapel of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

 
John Wayne “Paw Paw” Pickering
March 24, 1949 – January 8, 2025
Service: Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10am at Lone Star Baptist Church, Hineston.
 
Lillian Kramer Villemez
February 29, 1936 – January 6, 2025
Service: Saturday January 18, 2025, 10:30am at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Alexandria.
 
Fred Thurmond
July 22, 1953 – January 4, 2025
Service: Friday, January 17, 2025, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)


Louisiana State Police Troop E Welcomes New Commander

Captain Wright

Alexandria – Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Robert P. Hodges has detailed Lt. Christopher “Chris” Wright to the position of Captain and Troop Commander of Louisiana State Police Troop E in Alexandria.  Effective today, Captain Wright succeeds recently promoted Major Jason Smith.

Captain Wright began his Louisiana State Police career in 2004, initially assigned to Troop E Patrol.  Throughout his career, he has held positions on the Critical Incident Stress Management team, Special Weapons and Tactics, and Transportation Safety Services.  Captain Wright most recently served as a Lieutenant at Troop E.  With this appointment, Captain Wright becomes the 29th Troop Commander in the history of Troop E.

On behalf of the Louisiana State Police and the Department of Public Safety family, congratulations are extended to Captain Wright.  For additional information on the sections of Louisiana State Police and Troop E, please visit                                                                https://www.lsp.org/about/leadershipsections/ and https://www.lsp.org/about/troop-information/.


City of Alexandria opens warming station

In response to continuing cold weather forecasted for the upcoming weekend, the City of Alexandria is adding flexibility to its normal temperature triggers and opening a Warming Station at the Bolton Avenue Community Center, located at 315 Bolton Avenue. The City is coordinating with other agencies to monitor additional needs.

The warming station will provide a refuge for locals in need. It opened on Thursday, Jan. 9, and will remain open until Monday, Jan. 13, coinciding with the expected rise in temperatures.

Equipped with cots and Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs), the facility aims to offer a safe space for individuals seeking shelter from the harsh weather conditions.

It is important to note that the Warming Station is not equipped to accommodate individuals with special medical needs. Visitors to the facility are required to be ambulatory and able to care for themselves.

Read more here: https://www.cityofalexandriala.com/press…/warming-station


LCU men notch another Top 25 win to complete sweep in San Antonio

(Photo courtesy LCU Athletics)
 

SAN ANTONIO, Texas –The Louisiana Christian University men’s basketball team added another signature win to its 2024-25 ledger Thursday night, toppling 20th-ranked Our Lake of the Lake 75-69 on the Saints’ homecourt.

Earlier this season, coach Reni Mason’s Wildcats surprised 14th-ranked LSU Shreveport for the first Top 25 win by LCU in 10 tries.

Thursday’s victory completed a Red River Athletic Conference doubleheader sweep for LCU as the women were also winners. Both teams play at Texas A&M-San Antonio on Saturday.

For the Wildcat men, it was their third straight victory. They held the high-flying Saints to their second-fewest points to-date (69), 18 points lower than their season average, primarily by eliminating the perimeter shooting, allowing the least three-pointers (3) and lowest long-ball percentage (23.1%) in a league contest this season in addition to forcing 20+ turnovers for the third time.

Led by Bryce Weinmunson’s 16 points and 14 by Devin Carter, LCU improved to 6-9 overall and 5-6 in Red River Athletic Conference play, while Our Lady of the Lake  fell to 13-4 and 9-4. 

Jon’Quarius McGhee came off the bench to add a season-best 14 points. Chukwuemeke Nwaoshai has established a rhythm in the paint, hauling in double-digit rebounds in each of his past three appearances and his sixth overall after tallying a team-most 11 on top of blocking a campaign/game-high three shots.

Carter, the nation’s 3-point per game leader, nailed three more from distance.

LCU WOMEN 57, OUR LADY OF THE LAKE 52:  Rebounding dominance was the key for the visitors as they collected more than 60 rebounds for the first time in seven years and had a plus 22 (63-41) advantage on the glass.

Defensively, the ladies from “The Hill” held OLLU to the second-lowest scoring output of the season, stayed out of foul trouble with a year-to-date low of just nine, and logged double-figure steals for the second time.

Louisiana Christian (4-9, 4-7 Red River) got another Princis Goff double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Dakayla Howard snagged a career-high 10 rebounds and Deja Tanks collected 11 in just 15 minutes of action.

Our Lady of the Lake dipped to 6-10 overall, 4-9 in the RRAC.


Northwestern president awards ‘Nth Degree’ to Peabody’s legendary Charles Smith

By Doug Ireland

Peabody Magnet’s boys basketball team scored a signature win Jan. 3 in front of a jammed gymnasium on campus, outlasting Alexandria Senior High 65-55 in a matchup of two of Cenla’s strongest teams.

It was also a showcase in a pregame ceremony as Northwestern State University President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese presented the university’s prestigious Nth Degree to Peabody coach Charles Smith, who decades before earned a master’s degree in education from Northwestern.

Smith, 75, was inducted in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in October in Springfield, Mass., the greatest honor issued for worldwide participants in the sport. He is the fifth-winningest coach in the history of high school basketball, with Friday’s victory upping his total to 1,223 career wins.

The Nth Degree is a special honor conferred by Northwestern since the 1960s that recognizes individuals who have gone the extra mile in meritorious service to the university or the community. It is awarded only occasionally and Smith’s honor was the first presented by Genovese since he became the university’s president Aug. 5.

Participating in the ceremony were Mike McConathy, the winningest college basketball coach in state history, and Doug Ireland, the chairman of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, which inducted Smith in 2019. McConathy and Ireland are special assistants to Genovese at Northwestern.

Smith’s Nth Degree not only resulted from his basketball success, but for his educational impact on generations of students at Peabody and in Rapides Parish, and for his strongly positive community influence, said Genovese.

In his remarks to the crowd, Genovese pointed out that Smith’s induction in the Naismith Basketball Hall officially confirmed his status in the history of the game, and put him in a peer group of coaches including UCLA’s John Wooden, Georgetown’s John Thompson, North Carolina State’s Jim Valvano and other iconic figures in basketball through the 130-year history of the sport.

“It’s my honor to present Coach Smith with this award because he represents the best of us, and inspires all of us,” said Genovese. “We are proud he is an alumnus of Northwestern and we are thankful he has served his community, Peabody High School and the entire state humbly and with great distinction during more than 50 years in education.”

Coach Smith has been a role model to thousands of Peabody students, and 80-plus basketball scholarship recipients, with his former players including an executive vice president of a Fortune 500 company, pilots, doctors, attorneys, engineers, business owners, educators, coaches and two NBA players.

His Warhorses won the ninth state championship under his leadership last March, and are 16-1 this season.

He came to Peabody in 1974 as a math teacher – and remains in that role. He was an assistant coach, helping the Warhorses win the first state title in school history, before taking over the head coaching role in 1984. He earned his undergraduate degree from Paul Quinn University and after beginning his teaching and coaching career, completed his master’s at Northwestern.

Scanning the list of previous Basketball Hall inductees are superstars like Shaquille O’Neal, Bill Russell, Pete Maravich, Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, Cheryl Miller, Anne Meyers, Bob Cousy, Karl Malone and Bob Pettit – not to mention the game’s greatest coaches from all levels, like Red Auerbach, Henry Iba, Pat Summit, Kim Mulkey, Leon Barmore, Lenny Wilkins, Morgan Wooten and Adolph Rupp along with Thompson, Wooden and Valvano.

Among those joining Smith in the Basketball Hall’s 2024 induction class were Vince Carter and another Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer, Baton Rouge native and LSU great Seimone Augustus.

His induction in Springfield came in Smith’s first year of consideration. As a high school basketball coach, he was chosen from a subset that previously had only four representatives among the 450 people enshrined since 1959. Smith has won 86 percent of his games, losing only 215.

Such is his stature that the gymnasium at Peabody now carries his name – Charles Smith’s Emerald Palace.


LDH announces weather-related death in Rapides Parish

The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed the first weather-related death: a 65-year-old man in Rapides Parish has died from hypothermia. His identity has not yet been released. 

The City of Alexandria has announced it has opened a warming station at the Bolton Avenue Community Center, 315 Bolton Ave. A press release indicated that the city was “adding flexibility to its normal temperature triggers” in opening the station and was working with multiple agencies to monitor the situation.

The decision to open the warming station was based on an extensive review of National Weather Service reports. According to a city spokesperson, “the combination of rain, the length of the event, the likelihood of changes in weather on the margins, etc., lead us to believe — in conjunction with reports of failures across private agency lines that it was necessary.”


“The Aluminum Show” is coming to Alexandria

The Arts Council of Central Louisiana has announced that The Aluminum Show is coming to Alexandria Feb. 10 at 7pm at the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center.

This unique, mystery-filled visual spectacle keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. This is not just a family show but an interactive adventure that’s been enchanting audiences globally for over a decade.

Tickets available now at louisiana-arts.org or call 318-484-4474.


Woodworth Shooting Range to be closed today due to potential winter storm

The Woodworth shooting range will be closed today (Jan. 10) due to the potential threat from a winter storm, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. 

State offices closed in Bossier and Rapides parishes and other northern and central Louisiana parishes Thursday afternoon and remain closed all day Friday because of the weather.

The Woodworth Shooting Range is located at 661 Robinson Bridge Road in Woodworth. 

For more information the Woodworth and Bodcau shooting ranges and other LDWF ranges go to https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/shooting-ranges.


Save the Eagles Day: Protecting America’s Iconic Bird

Save the Eagles Day, observed on January 10, draws attention to the conservation efforts that have saved these majestic birds from the brink of extinction. Once threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and the widespread use of DDT, eagles, particularly the bald eagle, symbolize resilience and the power of collective action.

The bald eagle, a revered symbol of the United States, faced near extinction in the mid-20th century. By 1963, fewer than 500 nesting pairs remained in the contiguous U.S. The turning point came with the banning of DDT in 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which provided legal protections for eagles and their habitats. Conservation programs, including captive breeding and habitat restoration, further bolstered their numbers.

Today, the bald eagle is a conservation success story. It was removed from the endangered species list in 2007, and its population continues to grow. However, challenges remain. Eagles face threats from habitat encroachment, lead poisoning from hunting ammunition, and collisions with wind turbines. Golden eagles, another species native to North America, require similar conservation attention.

Save the Eagles Day encourages individuals and organizations to continue efforts to protect these birds. People can participate by supporting wildlife conservation groups, advocating for clean energy practices, or simply observing eagles in their natural habitats to gain a deeper appreciation for their role in ecosystems.

Eagles are more than national symbols—they are indicators of environmental health. Protecting them ensures that future generations can marvel at their grace and strength, soaring as reminders of what we can achieve when we prioritize conservation.


Notice of Death – January 9, 2025

Herbert Marston Belgard, Sr.
August 31, 1940 – January 8, 2025
Service: Saturday, January 11, 2025, 1pm at First Baptist Church, Pineville

Winifred Kay Hunt Guillot
January 22, 1944 – January 8, 2025
Service: Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11am at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Lecompte.

William Moore Odom, Sr.
September 25, 1941 – January 7, 2025
Service: January 11, 2025, 10am at Flatwoods United Pentecostal Church, Flatwoods.

Frances Helen Rusk Bardwell
August 29, 1934 – January 6, 2025
Service: Saturday, January 11, 2025, 2pm at Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville.

Isaac Dewayne Beyard
October 30, 1994 – January 5, 2025
Service: Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.

Fred Thurmond
July 22, 1953 – January 4, 2025
Service: Friday, January 17, 2025, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Darrell Wayne Morris
April 17, 1970 – December 28, 2024
Service: Friday, January 10, 2025, 12:15pm at the Garden of Memories Cemetery, Alexandria.

 
The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)

Flight Cancellations Due to Severe Weather Conditions

American Airlines has announced that a number of flights have been canceled today due to severe weather conditions impacting operations across several regions of the United States including the Alexandria International Airport. The airline prioritizes the safety of its passengers and crew and made the decision to ground flights.

Passengers scheduled to travel today and in the coming days are encouraged to check the status of their flights on the American Airlines website or app before heading to the airport.

“We regret the inconvenience this situation has caused our passengers,” said Ralph Hennessy, C.M., Executive Director. “Safety is at the core of everything we do, as the airlines are working to assist impacted travelers in rescheduling their flights or exploring alternative travel options.”

American Airlines is closely monitoring the evolving weather conditions and remains committed to resuming normal operations as quickly as it is safe to do so. Travelers are advised to stay informed and remain flexible during this period of uncertainty.

318-427-6410 – Office
www.englandairpark.org


School Board unanimously turns to Berry as president

New Rapides Parish School Board president Steve Berry

By JIM BUTLER

Steve Berry, in his sixth term as a School Board member, is its 2025 president.

Berry, elected to the board from District B in 2002, was chosen president, by acclamation, at Tuesday’s session.

Mark Dryden, District C, is vice president.

Both represent districts comprised of portions of Wards 9, 10 and 11.

Berry, who succeeds Dr. Stephen Chapman, District E, took the chair prepared with committee appointments, all approved without dissent.

Committees and membership:

Finance – Chapman, chair; Sandra Franklin, District I; George Johnson, District H; Education – Linda Burgess, District F, chair; Wally Fall, District G; Dryden; Personnel – Wilton Barrios Jr., District A, chair; Willard McCall, District D; Berry; Executive – Barrios, chair; McCall; Burgess; School District 62 – Sandra Franklin, District I, chair; Burgess, Chapman, Fall, McCall.


Post offices, federal offices closed TODAY as part of National Day of Mourning

President Joe Biden declared today, Jan. 9, as a National Day of Mourning in honor of former President James E. “Jimmy” Carter.

The declaration means no mail will be delivered and all post offices and most federal agencies will be closed on Thursday. For federal employees, Thursday will be a paid day off.

Carter, the longest living former president, died December 29 at age 100.

Local federal offices that will be closed Thursday include the Social Security Administration and the Department of Agriculture Service Center. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will also be closed Thursday.