CENTURY 21 Buelow-Miller Realty has joined forces with Bolton Realty in Natchitoches, bolstering the CENTURY 21® brand market share in Central Louisiana by expanding the firm’s service area to the north and west.

Bolton Realty was established in 2006 by Janice Bolton. Born and raised in Natchitoches, Bolton is an alumna and former employee of Northwestern State University. She also worked at the Louisiana Department of Urban and Community Affairs in Baton Rouge and the City of Natchitoches Community Development Department before launching her real estate brokerage to continue to fulfill her desire to support her community.

The newly combined operations now comprise two offices and 40 independent agents. Leveraging the CENTURY 21 brand’s robust suite of business-building tools, these agents will have access to state-of-the-art technology and an international network to complement their community connections and local market knowledge.

According to Kayla Walker, broker/owner of CENTURY 21 Buelow-Miller Realty, joining forces with Bolton Realty is helping to bring together like-minded, growth-oriented real estate professionals who are committed to high levels of service to both clients and community.

“This merger marks a significant milestone for our brokerage, setting the stage for continued growth and expansion in the future. With more top-tier agents joining our team, increased office locations, and enhanced resources, we are positioned to serve our clients better than ever before. Our goal is clear—to become the #1 brokerage in market share across Central Louisiana and the Greater Central Louisiana Realtors Association. Bringing Bolton Realty into the CENTURY 21 Buelow-Miller Realty family will provide its affiliated agents with advanced systems and tools and empower them to deliver exceptional value to their clients while leveraging the cache of the most recognized name in real estate,” said Walker.

“During the last 20 years of owning and operating an independent firm, I was proud of the role our company played in a role in building strong communities in the areas we served,” said Janice Bolton, founder and principal broker of Bolton Realty. “Now, at a point in my career where I’d like to take a step back from leadership, I’m so excited to watch the legacy we’ve built continue to thrive under Kayla’s stewardship.”

By JIM BUTLER

In the end Rapides residents who voted Saturday favored experience in the Clerk of Court’s post.

Karan Corley, a 32-year employee in the Clerk’s office, got 75 percent of the vote over Thomas David III from the 20.5 percent of registered voters who turned out.

Corley will serve the unexpired term (2.5 years) of Robin Hooter’s fourth term. Hooter, who supported Corley, her former chief deputy, retired at the end of November.

According to most-recent reports filed before the primary both candidates spent at least $100,000, with each loaning their campaigns substantial sums.

David seeded his candidacy with a $120,000 loan back in November. Corley, who previously had loaned her fund $10,000 on two occasions, loaned it another $81,000 in the Feb. 18-March 9 reporting period.

Corley’s campaign had contributions of about $82,000 from start to the March 9 report; David about $45,000.

David reported spending $148,000 and Corley $94,000. She had $83,000 on hand March 9; he had $11,000.

Leading Corley’s spending were marketing/mailing costs, totaling about $42,000. David’s campaign management expense totaled $105,000.

The Hooter Campaign Fund contribution of $3,500 led donations to Corley’s campaign in the reporting period. That fund had contributed a total of $6,000 through the period.

Other contributions of $1,000 or more in the period included:

Claude Bouchard, Austin, TX; Jeff Easley, Pineville; ARental Gallery, Alexandria, all $1,500; C.E. Sikes Properties, Foster Construction, Pineville; Hunter & Beck LLP, Thomas Wahlder, Alexandria, $1,000.

Contributors of $1,000 or more to David in the same period included; William J. McPherson, Woodworth, $2,500; Central Management Company, Winnfield, $1,500; Anton Enterprises, Campaign to Elect Lee Rubin, Finney Pediatric Dentistry, John M. Tudor, William Vollman, Alexandria, $1,000.

The Town of Woodworth announced that it has received a grant award for their sewer project in the amount $3,190,000. This grant will allow the down to expand their sewer services to Tall Timbers, the Twin Lake Campgrounds, and Indian Creek.

Police officers do not have ticket quotas. Not only is it a common myth, it is also illegal to require officers to meet a certain number of tickets — see RS: 40:2401.1.

As for the Pineville Police Department, there are no secret bonuses, no extra incentives, and no mandates forcing officers to write tickets. Fines collected from citations are split up with only a small portion being returned to the police department. The majority of these fines remain within the court system, funding various programs that support the justice system.

Pineville PD has officers who specialize in traffic enforcement and may write hundreds of citations a year, while others write none. It all depends on their role and assignment.

At the end of the month, when a person gets caught, instead of saying, “I got a ticket so they can meet their quota,” the person should be saying, “I broke the law toward the end of the month and was held accountable.” Citations aren’t about numbers—they’re about holding drivers accountable and keeping the roads safe. One of the worst things an officer has to do is tell someone that a loved one won’t be coming home.

PPD’s goal is simple: public safety. Whether it’s enforcing traffic laws, responding to emergencies, or investigating crimes, PPD works as a team to keep the community safe.

Cassie Doucet’s dedication to her students has led to outstanding achievements in reading proficiency this year. By embracing the Montessori method, actively involving parents, and tailoring instruction to meet individual needs, she has created an environment where students thrive.​

At the start of the year, 61% of her students met the DIBELS reading proficiency benchmark. Through her teaching strategies and collaborative approach, this number soared to 100% by mid-year. Additionally, her efforts contributed to an 11% increase in grade-level growth!​

In recognition of her commitment and transformative impact, Ms. Doucet was honored with the RPSB’s “Owning the Mission” award. This accolade celebrates teachers who embody RPSB’s core values and demonstrate ownership of the mission to increase student proficiency by 10% in every reportable category. ​

Congratulations, Ms. Doucet, on this well-deserved honor. Her passion and hard work continue to inspire both students and colleagues alike.

Detectives with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations have made significant progress in a case involving cruelty to a juvenile which led to the arrest of 28-year-old Matthew Frost, 28-year-old Brittany Tullis, and 52-year-old Tamiko Paulk.

An arrest warrant for Brittany Tullis was obtained through the 15th Judicial District Court for one count of Cruelty to a Juvenile and one count of Child Desertion. She was processed into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on March 21 on the above charges.

Further investigation revealed additional criminal activity had occurred in Rapides Parish. Detectives obtained arrest warrants through the 9th Judicial District Court for both Brittany Tullis and Matthew Frost for Obstruction of Justice. An arrest warrant was also obtained for Tamiko Paulk, a former deputy with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, for Obstruction of Justice and Malfeasance in Office in connection with her involvement.

Frost, Tullis, and Paulk were all processed into the Rapides Parish Detention Center between March 27 and March 28 on their respective charges. This investigation remains active and ongoing.

Officers with the Alexandria Police Department were dispatched to the 5900 block of Ron Mar Drive in response to a domestic-related disturbance call involving gunfire on March 30, at approximately 4:35am.

Upon arrival, officers entered the residence and discovered 38-year-old Shaterrica Smith, who was deceased from a gunshot wound. Also found deceased was 42-year-old Tracy Johnson, who appeared to have suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

This is currently an ongoing investigation.

If anyone has any information about this incident or any other type of crime in the Alexandria area, please contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at the phone number (318) 441-6416 or APD Dispatch (318) 441-6559. You may also email information 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.

A man from Alexandria has been arrested in a child sexual abuse material (CSAM) investigation conducted by Louisiana State Police.

LSP said its Special Victim’s Unit began this investigation in February 2025. On March 27, LSP arrested David Roberts, 45, for pornography involving juveniles. Roberts was transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center for processing. RPSO has indicated that his bond was set to $25,000.

LSP said the investigation is still ongoing.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

March 30

Dalton O’Neal Bell Jr, 27, Alexandria – OWI second offense, headlamps required, $1,600 bail;

Brandon Jose Gonsalez Jr, 29, Elmer – OWI third offense, modified exhaust, speeding, $200 bail;

Francisco Ricardo Gonzalez, 27, Alexandria – OWI second offense, driving under suspension, speeding, $1,700 bail;

Zachary Trayone Landers, 32, Alexandria – operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, five counts contempt of court, $20,500 bail.

March 29

Eric Leon Bassett, 47, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

George Dominique Davis, 36 , Alexandria – theft, drug paraphernalia, six counts contempt of court, $22,500 bail;

Alberto Ducote, 21, Alexandria – driving under suspension revocation, bicycle lamps, bicycle helmet, six counts contempt of court, $13,800 bail;

Bernard Ellis Jr, 37, Pineville – burglary of inhabited dwelling, $1,500 bail;

Austin Cole Maricle, 30, Deville – OWI third offense, open container, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, no signals, violation of protective order, $26,200 bail;

Nathan Allen Mixon, 24, Pineville – OWI first offense, speeding, $1,100 bail;

Ignatius Pappillion, 27, Alexandria – OWI first offense, carless operation of vehicle, $1,100 bail;

Reginal Dewayne Terrick, 50, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, bicycle reflectors, contempt of court, $7,600 bail;

Austin Kendal Williams, 29, Dry Prong – OWI third offense, improper lighting beam distribution, ignition interlock device offenses, $15,600 bail;

Keyon Terez Williams, 30, Alexandria – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail.

March 28

Albert Vernon Adams III, 46, Alexandria – two counts possession of controlled dangerous substances, $3,000 bail;

David Broomfield, 23, Alexandria — possession of controlled dangerous substance, aggravated assault, $3,000 bail;

Jeffrey Lee Buelow, 53, Alexandria – domestic assault battery, $2,500 bail;

Misty Michelle Coutee, 35, Deville – possession of controlled dangerous substance, probation violation, $2,500 bail;

Cody Ray Cummings, 42, Glenmora – simple burglary, resisting an officer, $3,000 bail;

Robert Davis, 35, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, paraphernalia, $3,000 bail;

Krystal Shantel Ellis, 35, Pineville – two counts cruelty to juveniles, probation violation, $10,000 bail;

Joseph Alonzo Fausphoul III, 61, Pineville – two counts contempt of court, $101,500 bail;

Lorenzo Alexander Gomez, 24, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, paraphernalia, $3,000 bail;

Joseph Dejuan Gray, 29, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, illegally carry of weapon, obstruction of justice, contempt of court, $24,000 bail;

Terrance Demond Guidry, 40, Alexandria – canceled plate violation, no insurance, driving under suspension/revocation, possession controlled dangerous substance, switch MVI, parole violations, $2,900 bail;

Adrianna Davon Harvey, 27, Alexandria – second degree cruelty to juveniles, $150 bail;

Lakiva Marice, Uyvonne Hubbard, 32, Alexandria – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Anna Marie Lawrence, 45, Alexandria – possession controlled dangerous substance, paraphernalia, two counts contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Jonathan Le, Harvey – theft of a motor vehicle over $25,000, no bail data;

Gary Wayne McClinton Jr, 38, Alexandria — domestic abuse battery, $1,500 bail;

Renee Cornelia Nelson, 36, Pineville – theft, criminal damage, seven counts contempt of court, $23,950 bail;

Damarius White, 22, Alexandria – OWI first offense, no child restraint, driving under suspension, improper window tint, careless operation, $2,800 bail;

Kenneth Lee Woodruff Jr, 46, Duson – illegal possession of stolen things, $2,500 bail.

March 27

Torey Allums, 48, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing controlled dangerous substances, two counts possession of controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, obstructing public passages, resisting an officer, $53,500 bail;

Christopher Doyle Chelette, 52, Pineville – possession of controlled dangerous substances, contempt of court, $7,500 bail;

Jerry Craig, 37, Alexandria – false imprisonment, simple robbery, interfering with emergency communication, Louisiana fugitive, $2,500 bail;

Jermanika Davis, 24, Alexandria – aggravated second degree battery, criminal damage to property, aggravated assault, $2,500 bail;

Marcus Leon Day, 43, Alexandria – six counts contempt of court, $21,000 bail;

Grant Alexander Fontenot, 24, Opelousas – aggravated assault, $2,500 bail;

Thomas Morel, 36, Pineville – computer-aided solicitation of a minor, indecent behavior with juveniles, $50,000 bail;

Sheridan Key Nelson, 36, Urannia – simple burglary, criminal trespassing, resisting an officer, $6,000 bail;

Tamiko L. Paulk, 52, Pineville – malfeasance in office, obstruction of justice, $2,000 bail;

David Griffin Roberts, 45, Alexandria – intentionally possessing pornography involving juveniles, $25,000 bail;

Jeremy Preston Sampract, 38, Alexandria – possession of controlled dangerous substance, $2,500 bail;

Shamya Tanjulia Simmons, 21, Alexandria – negligent carry of concealed handgun, possession of marijuana, contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Aaron Earl Walker, 65, no location given – three counts possession of controlled dangerous substance, improper window tint, seven counts contempt of court, $56,100 bail;

Eddie Ray Washington, 42, Alexandria – three counts simple battery, $1,500 bail;

William Leigh Wilson, 42, Boyce – three counts contempt of court, $60,000 bail.

March 26

Howard Denny, 45, Deville – domestic abuse battery, $2,500 bail;

James Darnell Gullette Jr., 32, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, criminal damage to property, contempt of court, $3,750 bail.

BATON ROUGE – The Louisiana Library Association held its annual conference and its centennial
celebration at the Hilton Capitol Center Center in Baton Rouge on March 20-22. The awards ceremony was held on the evening of Friday, March 21.

During the ceremony, Celise Reech-Harper, Director of the Rapides Parish Library, was named as the Louisiana Library Association Public Library Director of the Year. This prestigious award is a commendation given annually when merited for a public library director who exemplifies the leadership, creativity and dedication necessary for excellence in the role of library director. Nominations are accepted from LLA members with supporting documents from others including community members given consideration. Selection criteria include growth and development of the library under the director’s leadership, leadership and creativity that inspires staff, patrons, and trustees; and excellence in service to their community.

According to the nomination letters submitted, Ms. Reech-Harper maintains a “servant-leader posture” and is “not only a visionary but also a hands-on collaborator who inspires those around her to reach new heights.” One of her nominators stated that it “has become the norm for librarians (especially directors) across the state to reach out to Celise whenever they face a troubling or uncertain situation…” due to her willingness to offer empathy and well-sourced solutions. Her nominations referred to her dedication and deep love for the Central Louisiana community, especially her Rapides Parish Library colleagues, who she thanked profusely in her acceptance speech.

Ms. Reech-Harper became the Director of the Rapides Parish Library on Jan. 2, 2020, after a dozen years of service to the Beauregard Parish Library as a youth programming coordinator, programming librarian, then associate director. In 2014, she was named LLA Public Librarian of the Year. She holds a Master of Science in Information & Library Science from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Arts in English from Northwestern State University. She completed her undergraduate degree at the Louisiana Scholars College at NSU. Currently, Ms. Reech-Harper volunteers with the Junior League of Alexandria, the Central Louisiana Homeless Coalition, PFLAG Supporting Central Louisiana, the Louisiana Library Association, and Be My Eyes, an app assisting visually impaired individuals.

During her acceptance speech, Ms. Reech-Harper expressed her appreciation for her family; her spouse of twenty years, John; her colleagues around Louisiana, especially those at Beauregard and Rapides Parish Libraries; her friends; fellow community volunteers; and the Louisiana Library Association and the staff of the State Library of Louisiana. She stated that her accomplishments and the successes of the Rapides Parish Library system are only possible with the support of her beloved community as well as the opportunities for knowledge and growth afforded by those she holds dear. She commended all Louisiana library directors and staff for facing challenges and serving all members of their communities to the best of their abilities every day.

As March comes to a close, the 31st marks a day of significant historical events, cultural observances, and influential figures who have shaped the world. From civil rights milestones to scientific achievements, March 31 stands as a reminder of the progress made and the challenges that remain.

César Chávez Day: Honoring a Champion of Workers’ Rights

One of the most notable observances on March 31 is César Chávez Day, a U.S. federal commemorative holiday that honors the life and legacy of César Chávez (1927-1993). Chávez, a labor leader and civil rights activist, co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) and played a key role in advocating for better wages, working conditions, and protections for farm laborers. His nonviolent approach—through strikes, boycotts, and marches—helped improve the lives of countless agricultural workers.

Established in 2014, César Chávez Day is officially recognized in states such as California, Texas, and Colorado, where communities celebrate his contributions through educational programs, community service events, and labor rights discussions. His legacy continues to inspire activists fighting for social justice and workers’ rights across the country.

This Day in History: The Birth of the Eiffel Tower (1889)

On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower was officially completed and inaugurated in Paris, France. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the 1,083-foot (330-meter) structure was initially criticized by artists and intellectuals who viewed it as an eyesore. However, it quickly became one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and a symbol of French engineering and architectural brilliance.

Originally built as the entrance arch for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair), the Eiffel Tower was intended to be dismantled after 20 years. However, its usefulness as a radio transmission tower ensured its survival. Today, it remains one of the most visited tourist attractions globally, drawing millions of visitors annually.

The Invention of the First U.S. Patent for a Safety Pin (1849)

March 31, 1849, marks the date when Walter Hunt, an American mechanic and inventor, patented the safety pin—a small but revolutionary device that has since become a household essential. Designed as a secure and reusable fastening tool, the safety pin was created by Hunt in just three hours as a way to settle a $15 debt.

Hunt sold the patent for $400, never fully realizing the potential impact of his invention. The safety pin has since been used in fashion, medicine, and even social movements, symbolizing resilience and solidarity in protests and activism.

The Death of Selena Quintanilla (1995)

March 31, 1995, marks the tragic death of Selena Quintanilla, the “Queen of Tejano Music.” At just 23 years old, the Grammy-winning singer was shot and killed by the president of her fan club, Yolanda Saldívar. Selena’s passing sent shockwaves through the music industry, especially within the Latino community, where she had become an icon of Mexican-American pride.

Selena’s influence on Latin music remains unparalleled. Her posthumous album Dreaming of You topped the Billboard charts, and her life story was immortalized in the 1997 film Selena, starring Jennifer Lopez in her breakout role. Her music continues to inspire new generations, with hits like Bidi Bidi Bom Bom and Como La Flor remaining fan favorites.

International Transgender Day of Visibility

March 31 is also recognized as International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV), a day dedicated to celebrating transgender people and raising awareness of the discrimination they face. Founded in 2009 by activist Rachel Crandall, TDOV highlights the achievements and contributions of transgender individuals while advocating for equal rights and inclusion.

Around the world, events such as panel discussions, social media campaigns, and community gatherings aim to foster understanding and support for the transgender community. With ongoing challenges related to legal rights, healthcare, and societal acceptance, TDOV serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility and advocacy.

March 31: A Day of Legacy and Change

From the birth of one of the world’s most famous landmarks to the remembrance of influential figures and social movements, March 31 is a day marked by progress, tragedy, and resilience. Whether through honoring César Chávez’s fight for workers’ rights, celebrating transgender visibility, or remembering the lasting influence of Selena, this day invites reflection on the past, present, and future of social change and cultural impact.

As the month ends, these stories remind us of the power of individuals and communities to create lasting change—whether through activism, invention, or artistic expression.

Rapides Parish voters were in the same accord as the rest of the state of Louisiana as they resoundingly said NO to the four proposed constitutional amendments that were being proposed on Saturday, March 29th.

By JIM BUTLER

The Ball Zoning Commission is asked to rezone property on Paradise Road to allow an RV park’s construction.

Michael and Deborah Campbell, doing business as Flaggon Creek LLC, want to build at 993 Paradise Road, which is not far south of Camp Livingston Road.

They ask rezoning for the current R1, residential single family, to R5.

Their petition will be reviewed at the Commission meeting on April 8, 6 p.m.

By JIM BUTLER

Six months after she died in a fusillade of bullets, Hope Martin’s alleged killers have pleaded not guilty.

Martin, 12, was killed and her father injured in gunfire at their Cypress Street home in Alexandria.

Police have not provided information relative to what provoked the shootings.

Kayla Wooten, 38, Deroyce May II, 32, and Latraykus May, 32, are charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.

Arrested in September, they were indicted in January and arraigned this week.

Pretrial conferences are scheduled for each of them in early May.

They have been in custody since their arrests with bail of more than $1 million each.

Michael James Dauzat of Pineville has been accused of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), according to the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office.

Dauzat, 53, was arrested on March 26 on the following charges: 

• Five counts of pornography involving juveniles under the age of 13 (Possession) (Felony)
• Three counts of pornography involving juveniles under the age of 13 (Distribution) (Felony)
• Seven counts of unlawful deepfake (Felony)
• One count of nonconsensual disclosure of a private image (Felony)

Dauzat has been booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center. His bond has been set at $400,000.

The arrest was a result of a joint investigation between the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI),ffi Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security.

By JASON PUGH, NSU Sports Information Director

NATCHITOCHES — As twin brothers, Northwestern State baseball players Brooks and Bryce Leonard have always leaned on one another.

There may not have been a time when the Leonard twins needed that support more than Oct. 16, 2023. That day their mother, Janelle, FaceTimed Brooks, Bryce and their brothers Brayden and Baylor to tell her sons she had breast cancer.

“It was a moment of realization where it was like, ‘Wow. This is life.’” said Bryce Leonard, a key part of the Northwestern bullpen. “I never imagined a person close to me getting cancer. It’s hard to face it whenever it happened, but from there, we just had to figure out what to do with it and how best to treat her with it.”

Now sophomores, the Leonards – with Janelle in the stands — will take part in the second #ForkCancer game of their NSU career at 2 p.m. Saturday when the Demons host Southland Conference rival Nicholls in the middle game of a three-game series. The Northwestern athletic department will have #ForkCancer shirts available for fans while supplies last.

The series begins at 2 p.m. today – in an early start time due to a damp evening forecast — and finishes with  a 1 p.m. Sunday series finale. All three games will air on ESPN+.

Saturday’s game will come roughly 17 months after Janelle Leonard’s breast cancer diagnosis, which coincidentally came on the anniversary of her mother’s breast cancer surgery.

The diagnosis date came just months after the Leonards began their freshman year of college together, roughly a three-and-a-half hour drive from their hometown of Pierre Part. Adding another layer to this weekend’s emotions, Pierre Part is less than an hour from Nicholls’ campus.

In addition to balancing a new life away from home and the transition from high school to college athletics, the Leonards now had an additional variable factored into their changing lives.

The Leonards, though, still had each other.

“I can talk to Bryce about anything,” said Brooks Leonard, an outfielder who is part of the Demons’ right-field rotation. “He can talk to me about anything, especially about our mother. She would do anything for us, and we were able to be together, rooting for her.”

It is little surprise that Janelle Leonard and her husband, Jody, raised competitive sons.

Janelle Leonard is the head volleyball coach at Ascension Catholic in Donaldsonville. Her cancer diagnosis came during the stretch run of the prep volleyball season.

Despite hearing the words “you have cancer,” Janelle Leonard did not back down from coaching. Her team – like her sons – answered the call and pushed Ascension Catholic to a state tournament berth while their coach battled a personal five-set match.

“I had asked the doctor to see if I could wait until the end of the season to have surgery,” Janelle Leonard said. “That year, we ended up playing a team at the state tournament whose coach had passed away from kidney cancer the year before. They found out I had been diagnosed. Before the game, both teams prayed together, and they presented me with a rose and a card, saying they were praying for me.

“All our fans came out in pink, and their fans were wearing purple, which is the color for kidney cancer. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life, seeing two different schools come together for cancer. I’m coaching our game and I look up and see Brooks and Bryce – actually three of my four boys came to that game. It was so very touching.”

Janelle Leonard’s second family proved just as important for her as her biological one.

“Her being with those girls she coached, her girls, that made her keep going,” Brooks Leonard said. “She always talks about it whenever we’re away from home. She talks about how she loves her girls and how she would do anything for them.”

Brooks Leonard recounted growing up it was Janelle Leonard who drove the boys an hour each way to Baton Rouge three times a week for practices and games.

It instilled plenty of memories for both mother and sons, and it carved out a special place in the twins’ minds and hearts for their mother – one that was challenged that October day.

“It put a bunch of things into perspective for me,” Bryce Leonard said. “Life happens. Everything was sunshine and rainbows until it wasn’t. Seeing the strongest person you know not be so strong because she can’t was like realizing superheroes aren’t real. It was a realization that she’s human just like we are. We’re going to have to be the same parents for our kids, and just the example she set for us has been amazing. Whenever it came to the point where she wasn’t strong enough, it was like, ‘Oh my God. What the heck?’”

The Leonard twins are part of a Demon baseball program whose goals include teaching life lessons through the game.

By the time the Leonards made their collegiate debuts in the 2024 season, they had a folder full of those lessons already learned.

“It’s not a matter of just maturity, but they learn the value of life and family, and they learn the values that we try to teach and instill within the baseball program a lot sooner than maybe some of the other guys on the roster,” second-year head coach Chris Bertrand said. “You have the ability to reach them on a pretty special level because of the things they’ve gone through in their life and the adversity they have gone through. It resonates with them a little bit more when those life lessons are brought up, and they’re able to help you with the remainder of the team and give some validity to the messages you’re trying to teach them.”

Janelle Leonard’s diagnosis came on Oct. 16, 2023, setting off a whirlwind month in which she was diagnosed, coached in a state tournament (Nov. 12), had cancer surgery (Nov. 14) and celebrated her birthday (Nov. 16).

Those various emotions likely will come up at some point Saturday when cancer survivors are honored at Brown-Stroud Field. They may hit a little harder if Bryce Leonard acts on an idea he has had.

His multi-colored glove from a season ago had various pink accents, including laces and Rawlings markings. He mused on the possibility of using it if he is called on to face the Colonels on Saturday.

“Pink games and cancer awareness are emotional,” Janelle Leonard said, “but it also makes me grateful that I’m here to share it. It could have been worse. The words you have cancer were hard, but also being told if there was any type of cancer to have, this is the ‘best’ one to have, that was good to hear.”

While reminiscing on the multiple childhood trips to Baton Rouge, Brooks Leonard recounted how his parents raised him and his siblings “right.”

It has been the Leonards’ turn to repay their parents in the years since – one that comes to a bit of a crescendo Saturday afternoon in Natchitoches.

“Last weekend at UNO (New Orleans), I was talking to (freshman pitcher) Jacob LeBlanc’s mom,” Janelle Leonard said. “I had met her a couple of weeks before. The boys talk about Jacob – they love Jacob – and she wanted to introduce herself. We were talking and she said, ‘I just want to tell you, Jacob told me that, mom, those boys love their mama so much.’

“We went through a struggle this year in our family where they were my biggest support, my biggest fans, my rocks. You think as a mom, you make a difference in their lives, but they made one in mine.”

Contact Jason at pughj@nsula.edu

Last Thursday, March 20, the Transformation Zone Multiplication Bee was held at Alexandria Middle Magnet School, bringing together the top math minds from Rapides Parish School Board’s seven transformation schools: Alma Redwine Elementary, Acadian Elementary, Huddle Elementary, Lessie Moore Elementary, L.S. Rugg Elementary, Martin Park Elementary, and Pineville Elementary.

After competing in classroom and school-wide bees, 21 incredible students from 3rd-5th grade advanced to the final round.

• 1st Place: Jaelynn, a 5th Grader from Acadian Elementary
• 2nd Place: Demontre, 5th Grader from Alma Redwine Elementary
• 3rd Place: Corbin Brown, a 5th Grader from L.S. Rugg Elementary

RPSB thanks the sponsors, Coach Reni Mason (LCU Head Men’s Basketball Coach) and Clay Matchett of Green Payments, for supporting this event. Every student walked away with a T-shirt, personalized backpack, and awesome math materials to keep the learning going.