POSTPONED, ROAD CLOSURE: Elevated sections of I-49 from Exit 80 (Macarthur Dr.) to Exit 94 (Rapides Station Rd), Rapides Parish

(UPDATE – 1/20/2025 8:00 pm): DOTD advises motorists that the previously planned closure of the below referenced elevated section of I-49 in Alexandria has been postponed at this time.

Staff will closely monitor the forecast to determine if further adjustments to this plan need to be made.

DOTD continues to urge the public to avoid any unnecessary travel during inclement weather.

(Original notification – 1/20/2025 1:00 pm):

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Monday, January 20, 2025 at 8:00 p.m., I-49 though Alexandria will be closed from Exit 80 (the southern junction of MacArthur Dr.) to Exit 94 (Rapides Station Rd.), due to anticipated winter weather conditions.

This closure will remain in effect until the roadway has been deemed safe for travel. This closure includes all entry and exit ramps between these exits.

Permit/Detour Section:

Northbound traffic will be detoured to Exit 80, to US 71 NB (MacArthur Dr.) to NB LA 1, to EB Rapides Station Rd., to NB I-49.

Southbound traffic will be detoured to Exit 94, to WB Rapides Station Rd., to SB LA 1, to SB US 71 (MacArthur Dr.), to SB I-49.

Safety reminder:

DOTD advises the public that the forecasted weather conditions may result in hazardous driving conditions on state roads and bridges in various regions of Louisiana. During inclement weather, motorists should avoid all unnecessary travel. If travel is unavoidable, drivers will need to use EXTREME caution. DOTD will be monitoring the bridges and elevated structures, and will be ready to apply salt over affected bridges, remove fallen trees from the roadway, and close routes as needed.

Make an effort to be aware of your surroundings and be watchful of DOTD personnel and equipment dispensing de-icing/anti-icing material.

Additional information:

Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

DOTD Contact:

Alexandria District Emergency Operations Center
(318) 561-5233

Media Contact:

Erin Buchanan
DOTD Public Information Officer
Alexandria District
(318) 549-8402
erin.buchanan@la.gov

Continue your article here…

Alexandria, LA – Flight Cancellations Announced at Alexandria International Airport (AEX) Due to Severe Weather

Airlines serving Alexandria International Airport have begun canceling flights scheduled for Tuesday due to severe weather conditions impacting the region. Passengers are urged to check directly with their airline for the latest updates on flight statuses, rebooking options, and any potential delays.

The safety of all passengers and staff remains the highest priority. AEX is working closely with airline partners to monitor the evolving weather situation and provide support to travelers.

“We understand the inconvenience weather-related cancellations can cause, and we encourage all passengers to stay informed and make necessary adjustments with the airlines,” said Ralph Hennessy, C.M., Executive Director., “We recommend passengers check their airline’s website or app for updates before traveling to the airport.”

For more information about England Airpark, visit www.englandairpark.org.

Crews from all departments of the Alexandria Utility System are currently preparing for the upcoming Winter Weather Event. Based on current forecasts, the greatest risk appears to be freezing conditions and snow for about 48 hours beginning midnight Monday. Consequently, water pipes that are not properly insulated are at risk of freezing and potentially bursting during this event. Residents are encouraged to prepare now with these simple steps:

 Check sprinkler or irrigation systems now. Make sure they are turned off or drained. Don’t forget to insulate or drain the backflow preventer near the water meter.

 Know how to properly shut off the home’s water supply.

 Protect pipes by wrapping them with insulating products.

 Identify the home’s freezing points. Eliminate sources of cold air near water pipes and seal drafts around windows or doors.

 Consider shutting off water supplies to abandoned or unoccupied structures ahead of the freezing weather.

There is no need to drip indoor faucets right now. If the power goes out AND it is below 28 degrees outside for 4 hours or more, a slow drip might be okay. Drip 5 drops a minute, which means there is no need to run water constantly. Dripping more can add to placing system pressure at risk.

To avoid the risk of fire, ensure all portable heaters, heated blankets, and other such appliances are properly connected directly to a wall outlet and not a power strip or extension cord. Never use an outdoor grill or other heating product indoors.

If anyone experiences a water leak during this Winter Weather Event and need assistance shutting off the home’s water supply, submit a service request through the AlexConnects Mobile App or online https://www.cityofalexandriala.com/submitrequest.

Medical, fire, or public safety emergencies should still be reported to 911.

Due to projected snow and freezing conditions, ATRANS will not run today, Jan 21. Service will remain interrupted until weather conditions improve. Stay close to their social media sites for notice of service resume.

The Alexandria Farmers Market will be closed today, Jan. 21, due to the expected snow and freezing conditions. Stay safe and enjoy the snow. The market will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 28.

Rapides Regional Medical Center is closing the following services today (Tuesday) and Wednesday due to the winter weather Central Louisiana is forecasted to receive:

Closed Today (Tuesday)

• Rapides Outpatient Center
• HPL Clinic in Pineville
• Rapides Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab
• Rapides Cancer Center
• Rapides Regional Physician Group clinics
• All three Rapides Urgent Care locations
• Rapides Fitness Center Powered by BodyRoque

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

• Rapides Outpatient Center
• HPL Clinic in Pineville
• Rapides Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab
• Rapides Cancer Center in the morning. Patients will be contacted if it reopens Wednesday afternoon.

The Emergency Room of Rapides Regional Medical Center remains open.

For continual updates on services of Rapides Regional Medical Center and Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital, follow the Facebook pages. For updates on Rapides Urgent Care, follow the Rapides Urgent Care Facebook page.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that beginning on Monday, Jan. 20, at 8pm I-49 though Alexandria will be closed from Exit 80 (the southern junction of MacArthur Dr.) to Exit 94 (Rapides Station Rd.), due to anticipated winter weather conditions.

This closure will remain in effect until the roadway has been deemed safe for travel. This closure includes all entry and exit ramps between these exits.

Northbound traffic will be detoured to Exit 80, to US 71 NB (MacArthur Dr.) to NB LA 1, to EB Rapides Station Rd., to NB I-49.

Southbound traffic will be detoured to Exit 94, to WB Rapides Station Rd., to SB LA 1, to SB US 71 (MacArthur Dr.), to SB I-49.

DOTD advises the public that the forecasted weather conditions may result in hazardous driving conditions on state roads and bridges in various regions of Louisiana. During inclement weather, motorists should avoid all unnecessary travel. If travel is unavoidable, drivers will need to use EXTREME caution. DOTD will be monitoring the bridges and elevated structures, and will be ready to apply salt over affected bridges, remove fallen trees from the roadway, and close routes as needed.

Make an effort to be aware of your surroundings and be watchful of DOTD personnel and equipment dispensing de-icing/anti-icing material.

Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Whatever he is, or isn’t, we as a nation are bound to a new president today.

Almost half those voting in November (nearer three-quarters in our part of the country) favored his candidacy, resulting in an overwhelming electoral margin.

Let’s get the negative out of the way first on Day One of a four-year term (not a synonym for reign) — the only opinions that matter regarding allegations in the Smith report would have been those of jurors in any trial held.

Given their experience in that arena Mr. Trump and his band of barristers does all it can to avoid such, whatever the case.

Your view or mine of the report doesn’t matter. It’s done.

Now the positive — it’s just four years.

Annually, on the MLK Day holiday, communities across the nation will pause to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observed as a federal holiday, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a day off work or school; it is a powerful reminder of Dr. King’s vision for equality, justice, and love in the face of adversity.

For those who observe the holiday, it is a time to reflect on the progress made since the Civil Rights Movement and to acknowledge the work that remains to be done. Dr. King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered at the March on Washington in 1963, continues to resonate today, calling on individuals to create a world where people “are not judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

A Day of Service

One of the most meaningful ways to honor Dr. King’s legacy is by participating in acts of service. Across the country, individuals and organizations will engage in volunteer activities aimed at uplifting their communities. From food drives and neighborhood cleanups to mentoring programs and advocacy work, the holiday has become a day to live out the values Dr. King embodied: compassion, courage, and commitment to others.

For those unable to participate in formal events, small acts of kindness—helping a neighbor, donating to a cause, or simply offering a kind word—are meaningful ways to contribute to the spirit of the day.

Remembering Dr. King’s Message

Dr. King’s teachings extend far beyond his advocacy for racial equality. He championed economic justice, peace, and the power of nonviolent resistance. As we reflect on his work, many are reminded of his calls for unity and collective action in the face of division.

Schools, libraries, and community centers will also host educational programs, lectures, and film screenings to help individuals of all ages learn more about the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. King’s enduring impact.

Continuing the Dream

As the nation observes Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it is a time to reflect on the strides made toward equality and the work still required to achieve true justice. For many, the holiday is a call to action—a reminder that Dr. King’s dream is still alive, but it requires everyone to play a part in making it a reality.

Whether through service, education, or quiet reflection, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an opportunity to honor a man who changed the course of history and inspired millions to dream of a better, fairer world.

The Louisiana Public Service Commission (LPSC) announced the introduction of a new area code, 457, to provide relief for the 318 area code region. This overlay ensures sufficient telephone numbers are available to meet future demand while minimizing disruption for customers.

What is an overlay? An overlay introduces a new area code to the same geographic region currently served by an existing area code. Customers with 318 area code numbers will retain their current numbers, but new phone lines or services activated after Sept. 25 may receive the 457 area code. Importantly, customers will need to use a 10-digit dialing procedure—the area code plus the seven-digit phone number—to make local calls.

Key dates for the transition are as follows:

Feb. 24: Begin using 10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) for all local calls. Calls made with 7 digits will still be completed during this period.

Aug. 25.: 10-digit dialing becomes mandatory. Calls dialed with only 7 digits will not go through and will receive a recorded message to redial with the area code.

Sept. 25: New numbers in the 457 area code may be assigned.

Why is this change necessary? The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) forecasts that the 318 area code will run out of new numbers by early 2026. The LPSC reviewed NANPA’s recommendations, sought public and industry input, and approved the overlay to address the shortage.

The 318 area code serves the parishes of: Allen, Avoyelles, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Caldwell, Catahoula, Claiborne, Concordia, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Grant, Jackson, La Salle, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Rapides, Red River, Richland, Sabine, Tensas, Union, Vernon, Webster, West Carroll, and Winn.

If you already have a 318 number, it will not change. All local calls within the 318 and 457 areas will require 10 digits. Local calls will remain local, even with the added area code.

For more information, visit the Louisiana Public Service Commission website or contact the telephone service provider. The LPSC remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition and reliable communication services for all residents and businesses in northern Louisiana.

Meteorologists are predicting winter weather that will bring freezing temperatures to much of Louisiana next week. In addition to frigid temperatures on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, some parts of the state could experience snow on Tuesday.

“I encourage policyholders to Be Insurance Ready for the winter weather by reviewing your policy, discussing potential out-of-pocket costs with your agent and keeping your policy information handy in case you need to file a claim,” said Commissioner Tim Temple.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) offers these tips to help policyholders Be Insurance Ready before the wintery weather arrives:

Homeowners

If your home is damaged due to extreme winter weather, such as water damage from a burst pipe or fire damage from a faulty heater:

• Contact your insurer first to file a claim. If possible, have your policy number and an initial assessment of the damage ready, and make sure your insurance company knows how to contact you.
• Take photos of the damage before cleaning up, and don’t throw away damaged items. You have an obligation to mitigate further damage by making temporary repairs. Keep your receipts for these expenses.

Auto

If your vehicle is damaged due to extreme winter weather:

• Contact your insurer first to file a claim. If possible, have your policy number and an initial assessment of the damage ready, and make sure your insurance company knows how to contact you.
• Damage caused to your vehicle from fallen icicles and frozen tree limbs should be covered by a comprehensive auto policy.

Be Insurance Ready for winter weather and stay safe. If you have questions about an insurance policy or have issues with an insurance claim, contact the LDI by downloading our LDIConnect mobile app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, calling us at 800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov. 

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting https://www.ldi.la.gov/. 

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) is advising airline passengers to closely monitor upcoming weather forecasts and potentially reevaluate travel plans to ensure safety and minimize disruptions. The airport anticipates potential weather-related impacts in the coming days, which may affect flight schedules and travel conditions.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our passengers, and staying informed about weather conditions is an important part of that effort,” said Ralph Hennessy, C.M., Executive Director. “We encourage travelers to check for updates frequently, confirm flight details with their airlines, and allow extra time for travel to the airport.”

What travelers should do:

1. Check Flight Status: Visit your airline’s website, app or call customer service directly for real-time updates on delays or cancellations.
2. Plan Ahead: Arrive at AEX earlier than usual to account for potential weather delays on roadways or at the terminal.
3. Pack Essentials: Ensure you have necessary items, such as medications and chargers in your carry-on in case of unexpected delays.

AEX is working closely with the airlines and air traffic controllers to minimize disruptions and provide support to travelers during this period. AEX remains committed to maintaining operations as safely and efficiently as possible.

For more information about England Airpark, visit www.englandairpark.org.

Letters to the editor are a longstanding tradition in journalism, providing a platform for readers to share their opinions, perspectives, and concerns on a wide range of issues. These letters, published by newspapers and other media outlets, represent the voices of the public rather than the editorial stance of the publication.

By design, letters to the editor are opinion pieces. They allow individuals to express their thoughts on current events, policies, or community matters, often sparking meaningful discussions. News outlets retain the right to decide which letters to publish, ensuring submissions align with their guidelines while maintaining a respectful and constructive dialogue.

The practice of publishing letters to the editor reflects a fundamental principle of democracy: free speech. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees individuals the right to express their opinions without fear of censorship or reprisal. This principle is essential to a free press and open society.

Thomas Jefferson, one of America’s Founding Fathers and a staunch advocate for free expression, once remarked, “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” His words underscore the importance of fostering spaces for diverse viewpoints, even those that challenge prevailing norms.

For newspapers and readers alike, letters to the editor serve as a testament to the power of open dialogue and civic engagement. By encouraging public participation, these letters strengthen the democratic fabric of society, reminding us of the vital role free speech plays in shaping informed communities.

To participate in this tradition, readers are encouraged to submit their letters following the publication’s guidelines. Your voice matters, and letters to the editor provide an opportunity to make it heard.

Submit a Letter to the Editor via email to: RPJContentLa@gmail.com

The Louisiana Christian University basketball programs have rescheduled their annual twinbill with Red River rival LSU Alexandria from Tuesday evening until Thursday night due to the impending threat of wintry weather and subsequent closing of campus.

Game times are still slated as 5:30 p.m. for the women and 7:30 for the men.

TYLER, Texas – EJ McQuillan’s 24 points Saturday led the fourth-ranked LSUA men’s basketball team to its 11^th consecutive win, a 104-72 Red River Athletic Conference victory at Texas College.

The Generals now have a three-game lead on second-place Xavier in the league standings.

“It was a great team win for us in a hostile environment,” LSUA coach Dimario Jackson said. “Texas College is a tough place to play. That’s our brand of basketball our guys just played.”

Kashie Natt added 16 points and 9 rebounds. McQuillan went 7 of 10 on 3-pointers, hitting all of his field goals behind the arc, according to incomplete statistics provided by Texas College

The Generals (17-1, 14-1 RRAC) went into halftime leading 49-36 over Texas College (5-12, 4-11 RRAC). The win improves LSUA’s all-time record against the Steers to 19-1

It is the third time this season LSUA has eclipsed the century mark in scoring. The previous times came against Southwest (N.M.) in a 103-92 victory on December 5 and in a 109-75 victory over LSU Shreveport on January 4.

LSUA WOMEN 69, TEXAS COLLEGE 64:  In Saturday’s first game, the LSUA women posted their third consecutive win.
“I’m very proud of our fight,” LSUA coach Billy Perkins said. “We overcame some adversity for a good win on the road.”

The Generals (14-5, 11-4 RRAC) held a 46-27 lead over Texas College (4-13, 3-11 RRAC) but the Steers pulled within two in the late stages of the contest. A push from the Generals in the final minutes sealed the victory.

No stats were provided by Texas College as of Sunday night.

Both LSUA teams play at Louisiana Christian in Pineville Thursday night.

A four-win Huston-Tillotson battled to a halftime tie before the Louisiana Christian men’s basketball team posted 49 second-half points and notched its sixth consecutive Red River Athletic Conference victory Saturday, a 74-57 triumph at H.O. West Fieldhouse.

The offense made at least half of its shots for the second time this year, both occurring during the current win streak by going 26-for-52 (50 percent) while the defense posted its lowest field goal percentage defense of 2024-25, limiting the visitors to just 19-of-56 (33.9 percent) and only six assists.

LCU drew even overall this season and moved two games over .500 in RRAC play  (9-9, 8-6 Red River) while completing a season sweep of the visitors (4-13, 4-11).

Devin Carter was channeling his inner Steph Curry with his three triples all coming with either the shot clock winding down or from way past NBA range, topping all scorers at 18 points.

Jon’Quarius McGhee registered 11 points and an LCU-high eight boards. Bryce Weinmunson set a season-best regarding rebounds with eight, plus a solid 11 points.

Joseph Holloway was the third player for the Orange and Blue with exactly 11 points.

LCU WOMEN 83, HUSTON-TILLOTSON 68:  The Wildcats visited the charity stripe early and often Saturday afternoon, using freebies to pull away late for their third win in the last four games.

The women from “The Hill” made 31-of-40 (77.5 percent) free throw attempts, their most makes over the past nine years, while drawing 23 personal fouls.

LCU (6-10, 6-8 RRAC)  has found its offensive groove as the calendar flipped to 2025 as its top three scoring days have come in the past week.  Huston-Tillotson slipped to 8-10, 7-8.

Princis Goff took full advantage of the Rams’ strategy that could best be described as “Hack-a-Princis”, getting to the line 19 times and sinking 17 of those for a superb 89.5 free throw percentage. She ended the afternoon with a game-high 25 points. Goff became the first LCU women’s player since NCAA Division III All-American Tillisha Givens in 2010 to knock down at least 15 free throws in a single game.

Kylei Leblanc exploded for both 12 points and rebounds for her third consecutive double-double. Deja Tanks went 8-for-8 at the line and posted 12 points. 

McKayla Price was the fifth Wildcat and third among the starters to hit double-figures on the scoreboard, putting together a 7-for-11 (63.6%), 14-point showing.

In their next games, both LCU teams play host to LSUA Thursday night.

The Alexandria Police Department responded to the intersection of 3rd Street and University Street in reference to a hit-and-run crash involving a pedestrian on Saturday, Jan. 18, at approximately 1:46am. The pedestrian, who has succumbed to his injuries, has been identified as 39-year-old Marcus Billops.

This is currently an ongoing investigation.

If anyone has any information about this incident or any other type of crime in the Alexandria area, contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at the phone number (318) 441-6416, or APD Dispatch (318) 441-6559. Information can be emailed to detectives at APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.

For a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867. The Crime Stoppers P3 Tipster App can also be downloaded to leave tips and get a claim number for a cash reward at http://www.p3tips.com/community/mobile.