Join Rapides Parish Libraries for an exciting and hands-on Family STEM Night at the library on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Robertson Branch (809 Tioga High School Rd., Ball). This free, interactive event is designed for families to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through a fun and creative build challenge.

Participants of all ages will use common household objects to design and build a unique structure, contraption, or invention, testing their problem-solving skills and imagination. After the build challenge, families can enjoy pizza and drinks.

Please RSVP in advance as spaces are limited.

Since he returned home to Alexandria after being inducted last October into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, longtime Peabody basketball coach Charles Smith faced a new challenge.

“I was getting bombarded with so many calls and texts and emails, I couldn’t handle them all,” he said, explaining his hiring of local attorney Shane Williams as his agent. Williams, an Alexandria native and product of the Southern University Law Center, recently worked as city attorney but is now working as a Human Resources consultant for the Louisiana Municipal Association in Baton Rouge. He has been a sports agent for 18 years.

Smith, thankful for his many recent coaching accolades and the desire to “give back” to the community, started the inaugural Charles Smith Hall of Fame Golf Tournament last week at OakWing Golf Club with the goal of raising money for scholarships.

“It’s academic scholarships for high-achieving students in central Louisiana,” he said, noting a committee from his newly formed foundation will select winners each year and grant them scholarships to the college of their choice.”

In his inaugural four-man scramble tournament, Smith attracted 10 teams with players coming from Tennessee, Texas, the Lafayette area and central Louisiana. Curiously, one golfer who came from Houston was Antonio Cruz, the grandson of Houston Astros Hall of Famer Jose Cruz, who came after seeing it promoted on the internet, said Smith.

Coach Smith doesn’t know yet how much, if any, net revenue he brought in from the tourney, but he was grateful for many non-monetary donations for things such as food for both breakfast and lunch, trophies and door prizes. He was also thankful to all who helped him put on the tournament.

He is hopeful that the tournament will grow in future years and may attract some “big name” sports personalities, of whom he knows many. …

Pitching for power

Speaking of “big name” personalities, one major league pitcher who is drawing attention in the early part of this season is Cincinnati’s powerful right-handed pitcher Hunter Greene. Featured in a Wall Street Journal sports story this past weekend, Greene has a fastball averaging 99.4 mph, which is harder than any starter on record.

Former big league power pitcher Russ Springer of Pollock, who spent some time with the Reds at the end of his 18-year major league career, in 2010, said he loves watching today’s big, righthanded power-hitters like Greene and former LSU star Paul Skenes. Neither Greene nor Skenes, he said, has found success relying on only their fastball. They are both aces on their pitching staffs because they manage their secondary pitches so well.

Springer also cautions against getting too caught up in the speed count on a pitch, noting some research by Baseball America into the history of speed-measuring guns used in professional and college baseball.

Aroldis Chapman’s record-breaking 105.1 mph pitch on Sept. 24, 2020, is now registered as a 105.8 mph fastball, according to the story. That’s because the measurement of speed is more sophisticated.

“The Pitch/FX system that MLB used in 2010 measured pitches at roughly 50 feet from home plate, which is where the 105.1 mph of Chapman’s fastball was measured,” said Baseball America. “The current MLB Statcast system measures velocity as the pitch leaves the pitcher’s hand.” The greatest speed in a pitch is at the release because as soon as it leaves the pitcher’s hand, it starts to slow down because of drag.

In 1974 when career strikeouts king Nolan Ryan was with the California Angels, he got attention for pitches that clocked in at 100 mph or better. And that was when the Rockwell laser/radar instruments measured the speed of pitches as they crossed the plate. Considering what we know now, those Ryan fastballs in 1974 take on even more incredible wonder today.

“To me, hitters tell the tale of velocity,” Springer said, noting the reaction of hitters to fastballs they’ve had to deal with might be as good an indicator as a radar device. “I remember when I played, I’d ask guys who was the best power pitcher they ever faced. I heard Nolan (Ryan), Bret Saberhagen, Billy Wagner.” Saberhagen, a two-time Cy Young winner (1984-01) was just 6-foot-1, 200 pounds; Wagner was even smaller at 5-10, 180.

None topped Nolan Ryan, though. “I remember reading a great quote from Reggie Jackson when he was in his prime,” said Springer. “He said, ‘Hitting Nolan Ryan is like trying to eat soup with a fork.’”

Just as Nolan Ryan was able to play 27 seasons in the major leagues, the new flamethrower of the day, Hunter Greene, could pitch for two decades, Springer said. That’s not just because of more attention by modern pitchers to fitness and diets but because, like Ryan and now, like Skenes and other potential Cy Young winners, Greene manages his secondary pitches well.

“MLB hitters are hitting .054 against Hunter Greene’s slider so far this year,” Springer said. “The use and development of his secondary pitches is what is making him into an All-Star type, a true ace.”  

Three of Rapides Parish’s big school softball powerhouses flexed Monday in regional round playoff routs.

In Select Division I, No. 1 Pineville and third-seeded ASH overwhelmed visitors. In Division II, No. 4 Buckeye blew out Acadiana Renaissance.

In Class C, Plainview almost pulled off the state’s biggest upset when the 17^th-ranked Lady Hornets made No. 1 Harrisonburg sweat in a game decided by just three runs.

Today, defending Class C state champion Grace Christian opens its 2025 postseason at home, while Tioga, seeded fifth in Division I, is also home and Oak Hill travels to Stanley.

Baseball action involving four parish schools gets underway later in the week in best-of-three series.

All Rapides Parish schools in Classes 5A, 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A compete in the LHSAA’s Select category. Classes B and C do not divide into Select or Non-Select for playoffs.

SOFTBALL

Monday’s scores

Division I

Pineville 8, Evangel Christian 0

ASH 14, Lafayette 3 (run-rule, 6 innings)

Division II

Buckeye 16, Acadiana Renaissance 0 (run-rule, 4 innings)

Class C

Harrisonburg 10, Plainview 7

Today’s regional round games

Division I

Teurlings Catholic (12) at Tioga (5), 5:00 at Ward 10 Complex

Class B

Oak Hill (15) at Stanley (2), 5:00

Fairview (13) at Grace Christian (4), 5:00

BASEBALL

Upcoming games (best of three series)

Division I

Pineville (seeded 14^th) at Brother Martin (3), Thursday 6:30, Friday 4/7 (if necessary)

Acadiana (10) at Tioga (7), Thursday 6:00, Friday 5/7 (if necessary)

Division II

Kenner Discovery (13) at Buckeye (4), Thursday 6:00, Friday 4/6 (if necessary)

Division III

Menard (12) at St. Louis Catholic (5), Thursday 6:00, Friday 4/6 (if necessary)

Class B (single game)

The Grace Christian vs. Glenmora regional round game will be played next week, date TBA

The Cotile Events Association brought back its annual Spring Fest on Saturday, April 19, with a day of family-friendly entertainment on Cotile Lake in Boyce.

The event featured over 80 local vendors, 10 food trucks, and plenty of activities and attractions including face painting, a foam machine, a mechanical bull, and music by DJ Solomon. 

The Easter Bunny made a special appearance. Families were able to get some snaps with the Bunny before the kids delved into the community Easter Egg hunt complete with prizes.  

The Cotile Events Association said that events like the Spring Fest are meant to be about giving back to the community with a focus on children. 

The association’s next big event will be the annual Fall Fest. Fall Fest is scheduled for September 6 at the same location.

BATON ROUGE – The Louisiana Department of Health confirmed a case of measles in an adult living in Region 1, which is composed of Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines and St. Bernard parishes, on April 19.

According to the LDH, the patient’s exposure to measles is linked to international travel. The patient was isolated and treated at a hospital in Region 1. The individual was not hospitalized, but they will remain in isolation until they are no longer infectious. 

The patient was not vaccinated for measles, according to the LDH. No other information about the patient was provided because of confidentiality.

The Office of Public Health within the LDH is reportedly working to identify and notify individuals who came into contact with the patient.

Following the announcement, Louisiana Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier and Senate President J. Cameron Henry issued statements. 

“After speaking with the Louisiana Department of Health about the first reported case of the measles, I have been reassured that preparations have been taken ahead of the outbreak in Texas and that our Department of Health partners were ready for this possibility,” said Speaker of the House Thomas DeVillier. “Families who have questions or might have a loved one experiencing symptoms can reach out to their local doctor for advice and additional information.”

“As Louisiana learns of its first reported case of the measles, the legislature will continue to monitor the situation and support our experts at the Department of Health. Anyone in the New Orleans region who is concerned about potential exposure should contact their primary physician for guidance,” stated Senate President Cameron Henry. 

BATON ROUGE – An estimated 1 billion migratory birds die each year in North America because of collisions with homes, commercial buildings, and other structures contributing to a 29% drop in the overall bird population over the last 50 years. Many species are in decline in part because of these collisions including the wood thrush, which used to be a prevalent species in Louisiana, but is now a species of “conservation concern.”

“In addition to habitat loss, much of the decline of the Wood Thrush population is likely due to collisions with building collisions” said Dr. Van Remsen, LSU Professor Emeritus of Natural Sciences. “In fact, there are more than 100 species of migratory birds that are seeing significant decreases in population likely due in part to collisions.”

The carnage has to stop. That’s why the Louisiana Wildlife Federation (LWF) is calling on residents and businesses throughout the state to join others in turning off bright or excess indoor and outdoor lighting from 11pm until 6am between now and June 15 to help protect the millions of migratory birds that fly through Louisiana at night during this period.

Louisiana sits within the Mississippi Flyway migratory path. With the state’s vast wetlands, forests, and coastline serving as critical stops along the way, our state is crucial to helping birds arrive at their summer nesting grounds. Twice a year, 325 bird species travel the Mississippi Flyway. During the 2024 fall migration, an estimated 500 million birds migrated through the state of Louisiana. The majority of those birds migrate at night and typically start their nightly migration about 30 to 45 minutes post-sunset, with peak flights between 11pm and 6am. 

While the dark skies allow migratory birds to avoid predators, take advantage of calmer air and utilize the moon and stars for navigation, it also brings with it dangers such as bright artificial lights and the skyglow from larger cities, which can confuse the birds, often causing them to fatally collide with buildings or windows.

“Our city lights can misguide birds, diverting them off course with often dire consequences. This initiative is an easy yet impactful step in helping these birds continue their incredible journey,” said Rebecca Triche, LWF Executive Director. “Louisiana is well-known for the populations of migratory birds at different times of the year and people care about keeping wildlife sustainable. By supporting the Lights Out initiative, businesses and individuals can take a practical step to protect the birds that briefly call Louisiana home.”

Because low clouds and adverse weather conditions can detrimentally affect migratory birds’ flight paths, WAFB’s First Alert Weather Team has joined LWF in helping to alert the public when these types of weather conditions are expected, especially during peak migration times. This educational partnership is the first of its kind, and will bring awareness and, hopefully, action to help prevent migrating birds from colliding with homes and businesses in the Capital region.

“At WAFB and within our First Alert Weather Team, we are proud to support the Lights Out Louisiana initiative. As meteorologists, we closely track the conditions that impact our skies—not just for people, but for wildlife, too,” said WAFB Chief Meteorologist Steve Caparotta. “With millions of birds flying over Louisiana during spring migration, small actions like turning off unnecessary lights at night can make a big difference. We’re committed to helping our community protect these vital and vulnerable species as they pass through our state.”

Individuals and organizations wanting to join others in the Lights Out Initiative should follow these guidelines:

• Turn off non-essential lights nightly from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. during the migration period.
• Avoid using landscape lighting on trees or gardens where birds may be resting.

For essential security and safety lighting, use these dark skies-friendly lighting adjustments:

• Aim lights downwards.
• Use light shields to direct light downwards and prevent an upward glare.
• Use motion detectors and sensors so lights turn on when needed.
• Close blinds at night to limit the amount of light seen through windows.

For building owners/managers:

• Adjust custodial schedules to be completed by 11pm.
• Ensure lights are turned off after custodial cleaning.

Additional Guidelines for Buildings Over 3 Stories:

• Dim or turn off:
  • Exterior/decorative lighting.
  • Lobby/atrium lights.
  • Perimeter room lights on all levels.
  • Floodlights.
  • Lighting on interior plants/fountains.
  • Lights on vacant floors.
  • Lights with blue-rich white light emissions (over 3000 K in color temperature.)

• Instead use:
  • Desk lamps or task lights instead of overhead lights.
  • “Warm-white” or filtered LEDs outdoors (less than 3000 K in color temperature).

Individuals can monitor bird migration in their area by using BirdCast, a migration dashboard provided by The Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Dashboards for Louisiana and selected cities are:

Louisiana – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA

Alexandria – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-079

Baton Rouge – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-033

Houma – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-109

Lake Charles – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-019

Lafayette – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-055

Monroe – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-073

New Orleans – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-071

Shreveport – https://dashboard.birdcast.info/region/US-LA-017

Visit Louisiana Wildlife Federation, National Audubon Society, and American Bird Conservancy to learn more about protecting migrating birds in the local area.

As a teenager, John “Duff” Lowe was a budding pianist. In February 1958, a friend of his from school knew of Duff’s playing ability and asked him to join his band. With little consideration, 15-year-old Duff agreed. Being in the band was tough on Duff. On Sunday afternoons, the band would rehearse for Saturday night gigs which were anything but frequent, and his bandmates lived on the other side of the city. Just to get to rehearsals, Duff, too young to drive himself, had to take two buses. Like the rehearsals, their sporadic bookings were usually across town as well. With his school schedule, Duff was unable to meet up with the band during the week.

On Saturday afternoon, July 12, 1958, five months after joining the band, Duff and his bandmates went to a shop owned by Percy Phillips. Percy sold a variety of consumer goods including electrical appliances, batteries, and bicycles from the front of the shop. In the back of his shop was a soundproof room where Percy had a small and simple recording studio. Bands paid a small fee to make a recording, and each song was recorded in a single take directly onto an acetate disc. On that hot July day, Duff and his bandmates went to Percy Phillips’s back-room studio and recorded two songs: “That’ll Be the Day,” a cover version of Buddy Holley’s 1956 hit song, and an original slow-paced doo-wop song called “In Spite of All the Danger.” Duff and his bandmates were proud of the record, but they could not afford to make duplicates. To solve the dilemma of who would keep the record, they decided that each band member would get to keep the record for a week, then he would pass it to another member. Duff was the last member in the rotation.

The band was, as the expression says, going nowhere fast. Duff tired of the long treks to and from rehearsals. He was also missing out on the camaraderie that the other band members were experiencing during the week. Two years after joining the band, Ricky Tomlinson, leader of another band called “Hobo Rick & the City Slickers,” heard about Duff’s abilities. With the lure of fame and fortune, and more importantly, less bus trips, Ricky convinced Duff to abandon his current band and to join his band. Have you ever heard of “Hobo Rick & the City Slickers?” They failed to become household names and only lasted a short time.

Duff became a successful stockbroker. In 1981, Duff was looking in his sock drawer when he found the old 10-inch acetate record that he and his original band had recorded at Percy Phillips’ studio 23 years earlier. We can only speculate as to Duff’s reaction to finding the recording which everyone thought was lost forever. Duff eventually sold the record to one of his former bandmates, Paul, and it is said to be the most valuable record in the world. That 10-inch acetate disc, recorded with Duff as a member of the Quarrymen, was the first recording of the band that became the Beatles.

Sources:

1. “John Duff Lowe – Piano,” The Original Quarrymen, accessed April 20, 2025, http://www.originalquarrymen.co.uk/html/duff.html.

2. “The Percy Phillips Studio Collection,” International Beatle Week, accessed April 20, 2025, https://www.internationalbeatleweek.com/special-events-percy-phillips/.

3. “The Quarrymen – That’ll Be The Day,” Youtube, accessed April 20, 2025, https://youtu.be/R4_LMMKq8Hw?si=_xdGsglSsFxWO_yf.

4. “In Spite of All the Danger – The Quarrymen,” Youtube.com, accessed April 20, 2025, https://youtu.be/RuuOAA9ekbg?si=qWnhgZc9v5EqIisZ.

5. The Daily Telegraph, August 18, 1981, p.8.

6. The Westmorland Gazette, September 7, 2017, p.M73.

The Town of Ball will host a National Day of Prayer event on Thursday, May 1, at the Town of Ball Community Center. Lunch will be served at 11:30am. The prayer sessions will begin at 12pm. 

April 22 marks the 54th annual celebration of Earth Day, a global environmental awareness event that began in 1970. What started as a U.S.-based movement has grown into a worldwide day of advocacy and action, now engaging over a billion people in more than 190 countries each year. Earth Day continues to serve as a reminder of the urgent need to protect the planet, while also showcasing the progress and challenges of environmental stewardship.

Earth Day was born in the aftermath of a devastating oil spill off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, in 1969. The ecological damage shocked the public and galvanized support for stronger environmental protections. Amid a climate of political activism and widespread calls for change, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson proposed a national teach-in on environmental issues. Organized with the help of activist Denis Hayes, the first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, drawing 20 million Americans into parks, streets, and auditoriums to advocate for a cleaner, more sustainable world.

That momentum helped lead to the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency later that year, as well as the passage of key environmental legislation like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.

Since 1990, Earth Day has expanded to include international participation. The event has grown far beyond its original scope, encompassing a wide range of issues from climate change and renewable energy to conservation and pollution reduction. Each year brings a new global theme, and in 2024, the focus is on reducing plastic pollution under the campaign “Planet vs. Plastics.” The goal is to significantly cut plastic production and consumption by 2040 to mitigate the harmful effects on ecosystems and human health.

Plastic production has increased exponentially since the 1950s, with more than 430 million tons produced annually today. Much of it becomes waste, and only a small fraction is ever recycled. This plastic waste often ends up polluting oceans, land, and even the air. Microplastics have now been found in food, water, and the human bloodstream, raising concerns about long-term health effects.

Earth Day 2024 is being observed through a wide variety of initiatives, including climate marches, cleanup events, educational seminars, and sustainability pledges. In many schools, students are participating in environmentally focused service projects like planting trees and cleaning up public spaces. These local efforts contribute to a broader movement, helping raise awareness and foster a sense of global responsibility.

In cities and towns across the United States, including in places like Natchitoches, Louisiana, Earth Day has become a fixture of community life. Students, civic organizations, and local governments use the day to highlight ongoing sustainability programs and launch new efforts aimed at reducing environmental impact.

At the national level, government leaders have used Earth Day to underscore commitments to addressing climate change and investing in renewable energy. Policy statements and environmental reports released around this time often help reinforce the importance of maintaining environmental protections and continuing progress toward emission reduction goals.

Earth Day also brings increased attention to corporate environmental initiatives. Many companies use the occasion to announce sustainability goals, such as reducing plastic use, investing in clean energy, or improving supply chain transparency. While these initiatives can be a positive step, critics often warn that some corporations use Earth Day as a public relations tool, with limited follow-through or transparency about their actual progress.

Environmental watchdogs and nonprofit groups continue to monitor corporate sustainability claims, urging companies to go beyond symbolic gestures and make tangible, data-backed changes.

In recent years, Earth Day has seen growing involvement from younger generations. With climate change increasingly affecting their futures, young people have become vocal advocates for policy change, environmental education, and sustainable living. Social media has helped amplify youth activism, turning platforms like TikTok and Instagram into hubs for green living tips, eco-conscious product recommendations, and calls for climate action.

Students have organized school-wide Earth Day events, started campus sustainability clubs, and launched local initiatives to reduce waste and promote green habits. Their engagement reflects a broader shift in public awareness and urgency around environmental issues.

As the global community faces mounting challenges—from extreme weather to biodiversity loss—Earth Day continues to evolve as both a symbolic and practical platform for action. It encourages individuals to make small but meaningful changes, from conserving water and energy to reducing plastic use and supporting local agriculture.

It also serves as an annual checkpoint, prompting reflection on the state of the planet and the work that remains. Though environmental progress has been made in recent decades, Earth Day reminds people everywhere that maintaining a livable planet requires continuous effort and cooperation at every level—local, national, and global.

With renewed focus on reducing plastic consumption, restoring ecosystems, and embracing clean technologies, Earth Day 2024 underscores the importance of sustained environmental action. As the day concludes, it carries with it the message that while the task is great, so too is the collective power of people committed to positive change.

Closure of the LSU Alexandria course brings to eight those venues here or on the Gulf Coast that I’ve beaten into submission (never breaking par) with less than illustrious play over decades.

Yet the one I, and so many others, began the love-hate relationship called golf with survives.

The Bringhurst course in City Park is holding its annual Spring Scramble, open to golfers of all skill levels, on its nine holes Sunday.

The scramble has two shotgun start times, awards prizes to several places and allows all players to take a walk through seven acres of history.

That history began in the 1920s. In the ‘50s the city could no longer keep it open. Then Francis Trotter leased it as a non-profit enterprise and put it back in business.

The Trotter family — more particularly “Bugs,” then Jamie, operated it until 2006 when giving up the lease. Jamie was also managing the LSUA course at the time and continues to.

Scott Brame Sr. formed the non-profit Friends of Bringhurst in 2008, refurbished the course and opened it in 2010.

Do kids still get dropped there on summer mornings, to be picked up by parents on the way home? Do they still ride bikes there and back on the days it is open?

Do monkeys still howl and big cats roar while players are putting on No. 1 or No. 2? Do visitors at Kramer across Masonic Drive still look on in either shock or awe at some shots?

Location, of course, is something The Brink has that LSUA’s course and others did not.

Rapides 1, Rapides 2, AGCC, Alpine, LSUA — none with the urban access and convenience for young players.

Now, LSUA needs the golf acreage for campus housing and potential auxiliary development.

The change begins in June, while Thursday through Sunday play will proceed at Bringhurst.

To enter or get more information email franktbrame@yahoo.com or call or text 318-447-0646.

For its exemplary record of leadership, service and activities that improve the school and community, the Pineville High School Student Council has been recognized as a 2025 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC). The NASC program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Notable events organized by PHS Student Council are 12 Days of Pineville, the Black History Month Program, Kindness Week, StuCo Week, and other school spirit events like homecoming, prom, and pep rallies.

“The student council at Pineville High School just pulled off something extraordinary,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Their student-driven change has earned them national recognition as a National Gold Council of Excellence, proving that when young people are given the chance to lead, they turn their vision into real-world impact.”

PHS student council also celebrates the milestone of maintaining this award for the 10th year in a row, the only council in Louisiana to celebrate this achievement. 

NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the College of Nursing and the 55thanniversary of the School of Allied Health with receptions in Shreveport and Alexandria in May.

A reception for alumni, healthcare and community partners and friends will take place from 5:30-7:30pm Thursday, May 1 at the Shreveport campus, 1800 Line Avenue.

A similar event will take place from 5:30-7:30pm Thursday, May 8 at the Cenla campus, 1410 Neel Kearby Blvd., Alexandria.

NSU’s College of Nursing and School of Allied Health (CONSAH) is the largest producer of registered nurses, nurse practitioners and radiologic technologists in Louisiana with 100 percent job placement across multiple programs. CONSAH currently enrolls more than 2,400 undergraduate and graduate students with instructional sites in Alexandria, Leesville, Natchitoches and Shreveport.

Northwestern State’s nursing program was developed in the 1940s when the Shreveport healthcare community realized the need for a collegiate-based nursing program. Five hospitals agreed to phase out their diploma programs opening the door for Northwestern State to create the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Seventy-seven students enrolled in the first cohort in the fall of 1949 and enrollment quickly grew. In 1972, the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degrees were created with the MSN earning accreditation in 1979. Current NCLEX pass rates for BNS an ASN students is near 100%.

Noteworthy milestones for the College of Nursing include development of the online RN to BSN program, the paramedic/military medic to RN program, Nurse Practitioner program and the Doctor of Nursing Practice. The Nurse Anesthesia program and the baccalaureate program in sonography are the only such programs north of I-10.

As nursing degree offerings expanded, NSU implemented the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology, now the Radiologic Sciences degree program, in 1968. As that program’s degree offerings increased, the School of Allied Health (SAH) was created and joined the College of Nursing in 1994. The School of Allied Health offers a Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences degree (MSRS), the only MSRS program in Louisiana and one of only a handful in the nation. SAH also houses the Bachelor of Applied Science in Allied Health, the first applied science degree in Louisiana, post-baccalaureate certificate programs in cardiovascular intervention and MRI and last year received approval for a Master of Science in Allied Health

The need for nurses and allied health professionals is at an all-time high. CONSAH has pursued grants to expand nursing and allied health pathways and prioritizes external partnership and funding sources. In 2022, NSU was awarded a significant grant to expand the programs that make it easier for paramedics, military medics and people with undergraduate science degrees to transition into nursing jobs and address the shrinking healthcare workforce in northwest and central Louisiana. NSU is partnering with nearly a dozen other healthcare organizations in the region to add more than 1,000 nurses to the workforce by 2032. Grants have also funded faculty positions, LPN to RN cohorts, Nurse Anesthesia Traineeships in rural and medically underserved areas and a new concentration in the Associate of Science in Nursing titled Allied Health to Associate of Science in Nursing (AH to ASN).

“CONSAH faculty are interprofessional collaborators committed to developing graduates who are resilient critical thinkers, compassionate and empathetic caregivers and healthcare professionals who demonstrate flexibility in handling challenges,” said Dr. Aimee Badeaux, interim dean of the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health. “Faculty constantly strive to promote student success as well as their own academic pursuits, research, grant exploration and professional development.”

Information on degree programs offered through NSU’s College of Nursing and School of Allied Health is available at https://www.nsula.edu/nursing/.

For more information on the May 1 anniversary celebration in Shreveport, contact Renee Downey at downeyr@nsula.edu. For more information on the May 8 anniversary celebration in Alexandria, contact Alicia Book at booka@nsula.edu.

The high school baseball and softball playoff seasons kick into gear this week with four parish softball teams taking the field today.

Softball teams from Pineville and ASH, highly seeded in Select Division I, are home this afternoon. So is Buckeye, a top contender in Division II. Plainview is on the road against Class C’s top team, Harrisonburg.

Baseball action gets underway later in the week in best-of-three series.

All Rapides Parish schools in Classes 5A, 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A compete in the LHSAA’s Select category. Classes B and C do not divide into Select or Non-Select for playoffs.

SOFTBALL

Upcoming games

Division I

Evangel Christian (seeded 16th) at Pineville (1), today, 5:00

Lafayette (14) at ASH (3), today, 5:00

Teurlings Catholic (12) at Tioga (5), Tuesday, 5:00 at Ward 10 Complex

Division II

Acadiana Renaissance (13) at Buckeye (4), today, 5:00

Class B

Oak Hill (15) at Stanley (2), Tuesday, 5:00

Fairview (13) at Grace Christian (4), Tuesday, 5:00

Class C

Plainview (17) at Harrisonburg (1), today, 4:00

BASEBALL

Friday’s bi-district scores

Division 

Pineville 7, Riverdale 1 (Pineville wins series 2-0)

Division II

Haynes Academy over Peabody 20-0, 19-1 (Haynes Academy wins series 2-0)

Upcoming games (best of three series)

Division I

Pineville (seeded 14^th) at Brother Martin (3), Thursday 6:30, Friday 4/7 (if necessary)

Acadiana (10) at Tioga (7), Thursday 6:00, Friday 5/7 (if necessary)

Division II

Kenner Discovery (13) at Buckeye (4), Thursday 6:00, Friday 4/6 (if necessary)

Division III

Menard (12) at St. Louis Catholic (5), Thursday 6:00, Friday 4/6 (if necessary)

Class B

Grace Christian’s regional round game will be played next week, date TBA

The No. 8-ranked LSU Alexandria softball team swept Red River Rival Louisiana Christian Saturday on the Generals’ Senior Day, coming back in the final at-bat to win 4-3 before rolling 9-4 in the nightcap.

Not only did the Generals (39-5, 21-2 RRAC) sweep on Senior Day, but coach Trent Partridge reached his 100th career victory in the opener. Partridge is the fastest LSUA softball coach to 100 wins, achieving the feat in 145 games in three seasons.

“It starts with the girls,” Partridge added. “We had a vision when we came in two years ago, and we started implementing it last year. To be able to get there as quickly as we did is awesome.”

Molly Sistrunk’s walk-off single pushed the Generals (39-5, 21-2 Red River Athletic Conference) past the Wildcats (23-25, 10-16 RRAC) in Game 1

Trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the seventh, after a solo home run from LCU’s Jordan Dauthier, an RBI double off the center field by Julia Kwakernaak tied the game at 3-3. Haley Primrose drew an intentional walk after getting ahead in the count 2-0 to put runners on first and second. With two out, Primrose was lifted for pinch runner Jaycie O’Conner with Sistrunk at the plate.

Sistrunk fell behind 1-2 before looping a single into left field. O’Conner was waved around third and slid headfirst into home, beating the throw for the walk-off win.

Primrose (20-4) tossed a complete game in the circle. She allowed three runs on nine hits, struck out 10, and did not issue a free pass.

LSUA finished with 10 hits as a team. Kwakernaak and Sistrunk both recorded two. Kwakernaak drove in a pair of runs.

The Generals scored all nine runs in the second inning in Game 2.

They tallied eight hits in the inning. Kilee Moody drove in a pair, as did Jillian Howell. Haley Fontenot, Kwakernaak and Sistrunk each added an RBI. The floodgates opened as the Generals scored seven runs on a single from Fontenot, a two-run double from Moody, a triple from Kwakernaak, and a two-run double from Howell.

The Wildcats tried to chip away at the Generals’ lead, plating three in the fifth. Two scored on a two-run double by Bella Houck.

The Alexandria Police Department (APD) has arrested Terris Strong Jr., 19, in connection with the execution-style murder of Keely Brand, which occurred April 13 in the 2200 block of East Sycamore Street, where the suspect and victim lived a few houses apart from each other. Terris Strong was arrested on April 16 and already in custody at the time this new arrest warrant was served on him.

Following the initial arrest of Terris Strong Jr. on April 16 on possession with intent to distribute drugs and illegal use of a firearm, this second arrest of Terris Strong Jr. on the second-degree murder warrant was in the works immediately following the death of Keely Brand, a mother of four.

The City Administration and APD commend the work of APD’s detective and uniform divisions, as well as expedited assistance from Louisiana State Police Crime Lab. The City Administration and APD denounce misinformation by so-called community activists or unverified reporting.

The City acknowledges it is challenging for people afraid of retaliation and getting involved to come forward, especially if information related to the public is misleading. Chief Gremillion emphasized the vital role of the public through community involvement in solving violent crimes.

“If you want action, you must be part of the solution. There is no street code when it comes to human lives,” Gremillion stated. “We can’t do this alone. The community must speak up. Remaining silent only protects those who bring harm to our neighborhoods.”

The APD laid out the facts of the case as they stand so far. 

• Ms. Brand was found with fatal gunshot wounds in what detectives determined to be a targeted and deliberate act of violence. Following an intensive investigation over the span of a few days, the suspect was taken into custody by APD SWAT on April 16 on those other charges and is now being charged with second-degree murder.

“This was a cold, calculated act that has shaken our community,” said Alexandria Police Chief Chad Gremillion. “On behalf of Mayor Roy and our whole team, we were aggressive about resolving this matter immediately, before further harm could occur. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Keely Brand. No one deserves to lose her life in such a brutal way, leaving behind children and family to grieve over a senseless loss of life.”

• That first arrest immediately removed the suspect from the housing authority.

“While this suspect, a 19-year-old, was in detention for the other charges and removed from the streets, APD completed its case against the suspect for the brutal murder of Keely Brand, a mother taken from her family by a most cowardly act literally shooting an unwitting mother ‘in the back,’” explained Chief Gremillion.

“Knowing what we do from the investigation, that first arrest of the suspect very possibly saved lives from additional retaliatory violence or more violence by the suspect. Detectives were smart to remove the danger as fast as possible and then complete the evidence-gathering on a dangerous suspect from causing even more tragedy,” echoed Alexandria Mayor Jacques M. Roy. “I witnessed first hand top-notch policing and investigatory techniques using modern methods and technology. I’m proud of these officers but sickened by the senseless loss of Keely Brand,” said Mayor Roy.

Chief Gremillion and Mayor Roy offered insight into how the public can help with this case. 

• As Chief Gremillion explained: APD needs the community to come forward with information in these instances. “We know it’s tough, and the worry of retaliation is real. Mayor Roy has challenged APD and me to continue our review of additional procedures to maximize confidentiality and witness safety.”

• Mayor Roy also noted: “We are successful only in partnership with the community helping to police itself—helping to empower our prosecutors to make the strongest cases they can to prosecute to the fullest in these cases of extreme and wanton violence.”
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 www.p3tips.com/community/mobile.

Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop E began investigating a single-vehicle fatality crash on Louisiana Highway 498 (England Drive) and Powell Lane on April 19, shortly before 2am. The crash ultimately claimed the lives of 30-year-old Brandon Wright of Pineville and 33-year-old Aaron Watson of Amite. 

The initial investigation revealed that a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was northbound on MacArthur Drive while in the city limits of Alexandria. A Trooper with Troop E observed the Jeep swerving in and out of its lane of travel and attempted to conduct a traffic stop for improper lane usage. The driver refused to stop, initiated a pursuit, and continued fleeing westbound on LA Hwy 498 at a high rate of speed. The Trooper ultimately lost sight of the Jeep and thus terminated the pursuit. Approximately 50 minutes later, while searching the Jeep’s last known path, the Trooper discovered the vehicle down an embankment and partially submerged in a bayou after it exited the roadway in a curve.

Upon recovery of the vehicle, Wright and Watson were found to be unrestrained at the time of the crash. Both sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers are still investigating who the driver of the Jeep was. Routine toxicology samples are pending analysis.

The Louisiana State Police Force Investigation Unit is assisting, and the crash remains under investigation.

Speeding, impairment, and lack of seatbelt use continue to be the leading causes of fatal crashes. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, extends the distance necessary to stop a vehicle, and increases the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts to a situation. Additionally, while not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash.

April 20

Anner del Carmen Alvarado-Gonzales Sr, 24, Lafayette – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, open container, $1,300 bail.

April 19

Emanye Marshall Keller, 19, Alexandria – OWI first offense, safety belt violation, $1,100 bail;

Constance Doylella Cranford, 38, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $29,000 bail;

Bryan Anthony Diggs II, 32, Alexandria — simple battery, theft, $1,000 bail;

Latraccia Raion Nelson, 22, Alexandria – exploitation of the infirmed, theft, $5,500 bail;

Rebecca Ann Westbrook, 31, Pineville – disturbing the peace public intoxication, resisting an officer, simple assault, battery on an officer, $1,250 bail;.

April 18

Joan Lynette Dawson, 48, Alexandria – theft, seven counts contempt of court, $13,000 bail;

Kavon Dejuan Fowler, 28, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Rondale Dewayne Jones, 31, Pineville – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, possession of controlled dangerous substance, resisting police officer with force or violence, resisting an officer, safety belt violation, contempt of court, $7,600 bail;

Edward Kozlowski Jr, 38, Boyce – aggravated assault domestic abuse, domestic abuse battery, careless operation of a vehicle, switched license plate, $5,200 bail;

Rebeckah Earlene Kubicek, 40, Pineville – possession of controlled dangerous substance, windshield required, $2,600 bail;

Rashaad Leron Lott, 19, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, negligent concealed carry, headlamps required, $3,600 bail;

Treyvius Darnell Slaughter, 29, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $150,500 bail;

Darrald Dwain Smith Jr, 31, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, driving under revocation, stopping turning signals, two counts contempt of court, $6,400 bail;

Joshua Starks, 19, Pineville – computer-aided solicitation of a minor, $10,000 bail.

April 17

Cardell Kahlib Brooks, 30, Alexandria – producing manufacturing dispensing controlled dangerous substances, three counts possession of controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, illegal carry weapon, improper turn, two counts resisting an officer, $7,100 bail;

Carl Broussard, 38, Forest Hill – domestic abuse battery with child present, battery of officer, resisting an officer, $1,000 bail;

Demetri Jamon Bryant, 25, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Sarah Burnett-McCormick, 43, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation, driving under suspension, five counts producing manufacturing dispensing with intent controlled dangerous substances, resisting an officer, eight counts contempt of court, $37,700 bail;

Terry Wayne Bush, 42, Pineville – contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Arielle Junese Crawford, 43, Ruston – legend drug possession, three counts possession controlled dangerous substance, $4,000 bail;

Charles Dupar III, 50, Alexandria – theft, $5,000 bail;

Blake Anthony Fallo, 40, Prairieville – OWI first offense, open container, $1,100 bail;

Makalen Deshawn Jefferson, 24, Alexandria – OWI first offense, careless operation, improper window tint, $1,200 bail;

Deniya Lenise Johnson, 23, Pineville – two counts possession of controlled dangerous substance, illegal carry firearm with drugs, probation violation, contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Corey Shane Morace, 33, Deville – hit and run (no serious injury/death), two counts violation of protective order, obstruction of highway, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, $2,500 bail;

Kenneth Darell Rachal, 63, Pineville – hit and run (no death/serious injury), no insurance, contempt of court, $3,100 bail;

Rebecca Besson Rushing, 47, Pineville – OWI first offense, driving under suspension, $1,100 bail;

Craigory Deshun Wayne Smith, 36, Alexandria – legend drug possession, paraphernalia, resisting arrest, contempt of court, $7,000 bail;

Marcus Wheeler, 42, Baton Rouge – possession of controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, $1,500 bail;

Delmonte Dreon Zone, 25, Alexandria – attempted second-degree murder, two counts criminal damage property, two counts introduction of contraband into correctional facility, possession of firearm by convicted felon, domestic abuse battery, 10 counts possession of controlled dangerous substances, two counts producing manufacturing dispensing controlled dangerous substances, criminal conspiracy, $175,000 bail.

April 16

Michael Shane Gordon, 50, Deville – contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Jonathan Scott Guynes, 40, Ball – simple burglary, parole violations, $5,000 bail;

Treyvon Deshawn James, 29, Alexandria – accessory after the fact, criminal conspiracy, simple escape, $30,000 bail;

Jessie Nicole Laprarie, 40, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, five counts contempt of court, $51,000 bail;

Christy Marie Pantallion, 40, Alexandria – nine counts contempt of court, $42,000 bail;

Aliza Nicole Sauls, 39, Alexandria – two counts possession of controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, obstructing public passages, $4,000 bail;

Terris Strong Jr, 19, Alexandria – producing manufacturing dispensing with intent controlled dangerous substances, paraphernalia, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $101,500 bail;

Leland Vaughn, 42, Youngsville – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Growth is a powerful force — and Mrs. Angel Smith has shown just how far it can lead.

Over the course of this school year, Mrs. Smith embraced coaching, sharpened her skills, and most recently helped her students achieve the highest 6th, 7th and 8th grade Proficiency Exam 3 scores in the district. Based on student growth data, she is on pace to surpass the Rapides Parish School Board’s 10% growth goal by a wide margin.

Her story and success is a reminder that when growth is owned with purpose, the results speak for themselves. RPSB is proud to celebrate her dedication and success. Congratulations, Mrs. Smith, on earning an Owning The Mission Award.