Westside Regional Library to host Medicare education event

The West Regional Library of Rapides Parish Libraries will host a Medicare education event on Thursday, Aug. 21, 10-11am. 

Participants will discover everything they need to know about this important healthcare program. Whether new to Medicare or looking to make changes, the experts will guide participants through the process.

The seminar will cover the following info:

  • Medicare 101 – A, B, C, & D
  • Medicare Supplement VS. Medicare Advantage – Part C
  • Enrollment periods
  • Group Insurance
  • Penalties
  • And more

If anyone cannot make this session, call to setup an individual meeting at a more convenient time. For accommodation of persons with special needs at meetings, call 318-237-8667. For other dates/locations, check out the following link: https://richersonins.com/upcoming-seminars


‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time’ to run through Aug. 24

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Simon Stephens (the play) and Mark Haddon (the novel) and performed by the City Park Players will run through Aug. 24 at Hearn Stage at Kress Theatre.
 
“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is an award-winning story about difference, courage, and connection. When 15-year-old Christopher Boone is wrongfully accused of killing a neighbor’s dog, he sets out to solve the mystery—unraveling far more than he expected. Based on the bestselling novel, this powerful play is a visually stunning, emotionally charged journey through the eyes of a brilliant, neurodivergent mind navigating a world that doesn’t always make sense. 

“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is the Winner of the 2013 Tony Award® for Best Play; this is part of the 2025 Richard Gwartney Series show.  

Show dates:

Friday, August 15– 7:30pm

Saturday, August 16– 7:30pm

Sunday, August 17– 2:30pm

Thursday, August 21– 7:30pm

Friday, August 22– 7:30pm

Saturday, August 23– 7:30pm

Sunday, August 24– 2:30pm

Tickets are $5 for Thursday shows; general admission is $15. Tickets for Seniors (>60) and military members are $12. Student tickets are $7. Advance tickets at cpptheatre.com.

Cast:

Christopher – Chason Hernandez

Siobhan – Claressa Nixon

Ed – Dylan Booth

Judy – Mandie Austin

Voice one/Mrs. Shears (and others) – Samantha O’Banion

Voice two/Roger Shears (and others) – Alan Rogers

Voice three/policeman (and others) – Luke Goudelock

Voice four/Rev. Peters (and others) – TBA

Voice five/N0. 40 (and others) – Carly Bratcher

Voice six/Mrs. Alexander (and others)- Rosa Ashby

Content notes: language, adult themes. 


Boil advisory lifted for Dogwood Lane

A boil advisory issued August 7 for Dogwood Lane area is now lifted. Repair of a main made by COA personnel resulted in the need for a boil water advisory. The State of Louisiana has tested the water, and the results of the tests are clear, according to Superintendent of Water Operations, Barrett Dezendorf.

The Alexandria Water Department has lifted the boil advisory for businesses and residents located in the area described thus: all the properties along Dogwood Lane.

With the lifting of the boil advisory, the City of Alexandria now recommends that businesses and residences in the affected areas:

  • Run cold-water faucets for one minute;
  • Run drinking water fountains for one minute;
  • Flush automatic icemakers (make three batches of ice and discard);
  • Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle; and
  • Run water coolers with direct water connections for five minutes.

Attempted escapee apprehended

An inmate work crew reporting for duty at the Police Jury compound on Esler Field Road near Libuse Cut Off, attempted to escape at approximately 6:56am Thursday, Aug. 14.
 
Quick action by Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and a Corrections K-9 captured the subject in the woods within approximately seven minutes.
 
Patrol deputies also responded and the inmate was placed under arrest and is being transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

AMoA to host kitchen lithography workshop

The Alexandria Museum of Art will host a workshop Aug. 23 featuring printmaker Madilyn Anderson in an exploration of Kitchen Lithography. Participants will be able to create their own fine art lithographs using everyday household items such as aluminum foil, sharpies, vegetable oil, and cola. All supplies are included in the class cost.
 
There will be a short break for lunch; participants should bring their own snack/lunch.
 
Registration is required. Click here to register. The cost of the workshop is $50.

Notice of Death – August 14, 2025

Judith Anne Lytle Simmons
April 15, 1941 – August 13, 2025
Service: Monday, August 18, 2025, 10am at Esler Baptist Church, Pineville.

Joan Timmons
November 22, 1928 – August 13, 2025
Service: Monday, August 18, 2025, 9am at One Life Church, Alexandria. 

Mary Louise Juneau Duhon
January 10, 1936 – August 12, 2025
Service: Saturday August 23, 2025, 2pm at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria. 

Jeanne Ellen Harris
September 26, 1929 – August 10, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 1pm the Ball Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Ball.

Henry Hamilton Bledsoe
October 1, 1937 – August 9, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mary Weatherly Gough
March 21, 1944 – August 9, 2025
Service: Friday, August 15, 2025, 2pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Charles R. Satcher
June 30, 1945 – August 8, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 11am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Carroll H. Gates
December 31, 1938 – August 4, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 12pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Dawn Marie Foster
December 1, 1961 – August 3, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 16, 2025, 1pm at Trinity Baptist Church, Pineville.

Cora Lee West
September 1, 1943 – August 2, 2025
Service: Friday, August 15, 2025, 11am at First Evening Star Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

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

Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!


Senior housing proposals sought for former Central Hospital grounds

Central Hospital grounds redevelopment visualization from early consultant study.

By JIM BUTLER

Proposals are being solicited for creating seniors housing on a portion of the former Central Louisiana State Hospital grounds.

The Pineville Downtown Development District is offering for sale and development three centrally located parcels totaling about 25 1/2 acres for senior housing or related residential or light commercial use.

Light commercial incorporates enterprises such as retail sales outlets, offices, restaurants, small medical or other professional facilities.

Central, which housed about 3,000 persons in need of mental health care in its heyday, had fewer than 150 when it moved to a new facility off Esler Field Road last year.

A 2023 consultant report counted 202 abandoned acres of the U.S. 71-165-167-fronting grounds suitable for development and about 179 in waterbodies, heavily vegetated open areas and greenway.

Commercial developments already operating on the former grounds include an auto dealership and a convenience store.

The solicitation is under auspices of Pan American Engineers, which will accept proposals through September 5. Grant Cooper is project engineer.


Plainview High School Closed today due to no reliable water supply

Due to severe storms in the area last night, Plainview High School’s campus is
currently without water service.

Since the school cannot operate safely without a reliable water supply, and we do not have a timeline for when water will be restored, school is canceled today for the safety of our students and staff.

District administration will continue monitoring the situation and will notify families
as soon as we have an update.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Continue your article here…


BRIDGE CLOSURE: US 167 (Pineville Expressway) southbound

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises motorists that on Sunday, Aug. 17, the US 167 (Pineville Expressway) southbound bridge over Wadley St., railroad tracks, and 4th St. in the City of Pineville will be closed.

This bridge closure is scheduled to take place from approximately 7am to 5pm for one day and is necessary to allow DOTD crews to perform bridge maintenance work.

This bridge is located approximately 0.82 miles north of the Red River (see map).

Detour will be via LA 1250/Melrose Street. Signage will be in place directing motorists through the detour.

DOTD appreciates the public’s patience and reminds drivers to please drive with caution around the construction sites and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at www.511la.org. Additionally, follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page.


Search begins for Sawtell’s successor at CLTCC

 Jimmy Sawtelle

James R. “Jimmy” Sawtelle III, chancellor of Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) in Alexandria, on Wednesday announced his intention to retire next spring, concluding a 30+ year career in higher education and workforce development.

Dr. Monty Sullivan, president, said the Board of Supervisors will begin an immediate search for a new chancellor.

Sawtelle has led CLTCC since 2014 and previously served as chancellor from 2011 to 2012.

His career also includes leadership roles across the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS), including senior vice president for workforce solutions, vice president for career and technical education, and regional director for multiple colleges.

During his tenure, CLTCC has become a statewide model for rural college innovation. Last year, the college earned accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and has since expanded healthcare and manufacturing programs and launched new offerings in forestry, fiber optics, commercial truck driving, and linework.

Under Sawtelle’s leadership, CLTCC relocated its main campus to downtown Alexandria with the construction of a $22 million facility, expanded university transfer pathways, and secured more than $10 million in philanthropic, grant, and industry funding to strengthen workforce training and support student success.

“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve as chancellor of Central Louisiana Technical Community College,” said Sawtelle. “Over the past decade, our students, faculty, and staff have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to transforming lives and elevating our communities, and I will forever be proud of what we have accomplished together—with the continued support of our incredible Central Louisiana partners.”

Sullivan commended Sawtelle for his decades of service and lasting contributions to CLTCC and Central Louisiana, noting the impact of his leadership on the college and the broader region.

“Jimmy’s career has been defined by a steadfast dedication to the students, faculty, and communities he has served. His commitment to our mission and steady guidance have inspired those around him and strengthened the fabric of our system. We are grateful for the legacy he leaves and wish him and his family much joy in this next chapter.”

CLTCC is positioned to build on its recent double-digit enrollment growth. In the past 14 months, the college has awarded degrees and credentials to more than 400 allied health professionals, meeting critical workforce needs in the region.

New capital projects, including the Rod Brady Campus in Jena and the Ward H. Nash Avoyelles Campus in Cottonport, both authorized during the 2025 legislative session, along with ongoing community and industry partnerships, will continue to expand educational opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.

“The future is bright for CLTCC,” Sawtelle said. “I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Sullivan, the LCTCS Board of Supervisors, and many colleagues for the opportunity to lead such a special institution, and I look forward to cheering it on in the years to come.”


Time to turn and burn for state’s PGA Tour standout at BMW Championship

Sam Burns’ bid for a Ryder Cup spot will be on the line this weekend at the PGA Tour’s second playoff event, the BMW Championship.
 

Sam Burns has had by anyone’s yardstick, a pretty good year on the PGA Tour, with $4.6 million in official earnings and 19 of 22 cuts made.

He has been that close to much better. He shot a final round 62 to get into a playoff for the Canadian Open title (finished runner-up), then a week later led the U.S. Open, after a 65 in Round 2, until the final three holes Sunday (wound up 8th, shooting 78 on a rain-soaked Oakmont CC track).

To make it a great year, Burns probably needs to add to his 2025 top 10 total of four as the second leg of the Tour’s playoffs begins today – the BMW Championship at Caves Valley Golf Club in Owings Mills, Maryland. A $20 million purse includes a $3.6 winner’s take.

The Shreveport native, Calvary Baptist graduate and two-time LSU All-American tees off at 11:49 a.m. CDT with Sungjae Im. Golf Channel will air tournament play from 1-5 today, while extensive coverage begins early this morning through the PGA Tour Live streaming service on ESPN+.

Burns, 29, still has hopes of getting a spot on Team USA for next month’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black on Long Island, N.Y.

He remains 16th in Ryder Cup points after his 28th place finish last week in Memphis, shooting 6-under on the final two rounds at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.  Team captain Keegan Bradley will supplement the top six in the standings with six captain’s picks – with the rankings a factor but not necessarily decisive — after next week’s Tour Championship involving the top 30 players in the FedEx Cup point totals.

Burns is 24th in the FedEx Cup standings. The top 50 players are in the field this week.

He is in a group of six likely still in the mix for a Ryder Cup roster invitation. How Burns fares this week (and next) compared to Nos. 11-15 Maverick McNealy, Andrew Novak, Brian Harman, Cameron Young and Patrick Cantlay will determine if he gets to play in a fourth consecutive international competition (2022, 2024 Presidents Cup, 2023 Ryder Cup).

Now a Choudrant resident, playing out of Squire Creek Country Club, Burns is the 16th pick by oddsmakers in this weekend’s event.

He ranks second in PGA Tour strokes gained putting (+0.862) and 18th overall in strokes gained (+0.841), but to fare well he must improve in shots gained on approaches to the green (ranking 121st) and shots gained off the tee (78th)

Burns was runner-up at last year’s BMW Championship contested at Castle Pines in Colorado.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Fall women’s Fishing 101 workshop application period is open

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LAWFF) are teaming up to present two Women’s Fishing 101 Workshops this fall. The workshops are open to women over the age of 18 who are looking to become knowledgeable and confident anglers. 

The workshops cover a variety of skills to help make fishing more enjoyable. LDWF biologists and aquatic volunteer instructors will train 15 women per event in fish identification, best fish handling practices, preparing fishing equipment, basic fishing skills, as well as cleaning, storing, and cooking fish.

  Fall Workshop Dates

  • Saturday, October 4, 2025 – LDWF Waddill Wildlife Refuge, Baton Rouge
    • Application period open August 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025
  •  Saturday, December 6, 2025 – LDWF Waddill Wildlife Refuge, Baton Rouge
    • Application period open October 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025

Apply for the October 4th workshop until Sunday, August 31st.

Each Women’s Fishing Workshop will be limited to 15 participants per date. Participants must be first-time attendees and may only attend one workshop. Selected registrants will be notified via email prior to each workshop. Applications will not be reviewed until after the application period has closed.   

While not required to register, participants must possess a valid Louisiana fishing license to participate in the workshop. To purchase a fishing license, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov/licenses-and-permits.

The Women’s Fishing Workshops are hosted in conjunction with the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation (LAWFF). The Foundation was formed to help expand and support LDWF education and research programs with additional resources developed through its own facilities. Encouraging support for LDWF programs is the major focus of the Foundation, accomplished by connecting people and businesses with Louisiana’s natural resources. For more information, visit www.lawff.org.

Women’s Fishing 101 Workshops are funded by the Sport Fish Restoration Fund, a USFWS grant program that provides grant funds to the states, the District of Columbia and insular areas fish and wildlife agencies for fishery projects, boating access and aquatic education. 

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. Help us protect your hunting and fishing heritage while preserving habitat, wildlife, and aquatic resources by purchasing your license HERE. To receive email or text alerts signup here


Arrest made in cruelty to the infirm

Lance K. Harris

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office received a complaint in reference to the possible cruelty of the infirm on July 29.  According to the complainant, the victim had un-explained injuries and was under the care of only one person, identified as Lance K. Harris, 66 of Pineville.

Sheriff’s detectives were assigned the case for further investigation and from that investigation, which included witness statements and information obtained from a search warrant of medical records, Harris quickly became the only suspect.  

From their investigation, Sheriff’s detectives were able to establish sufficient probable cause that supported the original allegations against Harris.  On August 7, Harris was located at his residence, taken into custody without incident and placed under arrest for six counts cruelty to the infirm.

Harris was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center where, on August 11, he was released on a $150,000 bond. 

Sheriff’s detectives say their investigation is still ongoing and if anyone has any further information relating to this crime, they are asked to contact Detective Susan Mosley, Criminal Investigation Division-Tioga Substation at 318-641-6000.


PPD’s ‘Wanted Wednesday’ focus is a two-for-one

The Pineville Police Department’s “Wanted Wednesday” focus is a pair of alleged thieves. PPD is seeking the whereabouts of Troy Cummings and Julie Barbe. 
 
The pair is accused of “helping themselves” to a few items from a local nursing home. Evidence was presented to a judge, and now arrest warrants have been issued for both.
 
If anyone knows the whereabouts of Cummings and/or Barbe, contact the Pineville Police Department or send a message via Facebook. All tips remain anonymous. 
 
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

Alexandria man faces $3 million bail on murder charges; Suspect accused of battering healthcare workers, exposure to AIDS

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

 

Aug. 13

Monique Marie Aaron, 59, Alexandria – two counts theft (second/subsequent conviction), probation violation, $100,000 bail;

Demottria Shundra Fuller, 41, Pineville – three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, contempt of court, parole violations, $3,500 bail;

Eugene Lee, 37, Alexandria – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Kevin Dewone Martin, 26, Grambling – simple burglary, identity theft, possession of CDS, Louisiana fugitive, resisting an officer, $16,000 bail;

Arthur Jamall Wallace, 35, Alexandria – first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted first degree murder, attempted second degree murder, $3 million bail.

 

Aug. 12

Rodney Gene Breland Sr, 71, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $3,000 bail;

Damon Bryant, 48, Pineville – theft, possession of CDS, two counts contempt of court, $3,650 bail;

Anthony Keith Drummer, 45, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, sex offender failure to notify change of address, parole violations, no bail data;

Ismael Gonzalez, 72, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, resisting officer, $2,000 bail;

Joseph Ward Goodwin, 54, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, probation violation, $5,000 bail;

Tanita Marie James, 45, Inglewood, Calif. – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, improper lane usage, $15,600 bail;

Roosevelt Dewayne Lacarte III, 25, Bunkie – indecent behavior with juveniles, $100,000 bail;

Anthony Jerome Mitchell Jr, 31, Boyce – unauthorized entry into inhabited dwelling, criminal trespass, contempt of court, parole violations, $6,500 bail;

Shelton Ray Morris Jr, 48, Lecompte – three counts simple burglary, aggravated robbery, criminal damage to property, $13,500 bail;

Lisa Theresa Ozaeta, 50, Inglewood, Calif. – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, $15,500 bail;

Tara Lee Ozaeta, 43, Inglewood, Calif. – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, $15,500 bail;

Donald Ray Parker Jr, 33, Alexandria – simple assault home invasion, two counts contempt of court, $12,500 bail;

Michael Wallace Proveaux Jr, 30, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, contempt of court, $103,000 bail;

Kenneth Dean Rabalais, 60, Alexandria – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, $5,000 bail;

Jeffery Jermaine Ross, 40, Deville – create distribute possess counterfeit CDS with intent, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, $23,000 bail;

Michael Wayne Smith, 50, Alexandria – burglary of an inhabited dwelling, monetary instruction abuse, $6,500 bail;

Blaise H. Vidrine, 37, Elton – possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of firearm with obliterated serial number, speeding, driving under suspension, no insurance, two counts contempt of court, $25,300 bail;

Joshua Eli Ward, 44, Pineville – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Jarvis Dontay White, 30, Alexandria – second degree murder, four counts second degree battery, simple battery, two counts possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, resisting an officer, probation violation, $2.211 million bail;

Tyshel Dayshone White, 20, Pineville – OWI first offense, two counts running a red light, failure to change driver’s license address, safety belt violation, no driver’s license, $1,500 bail.

 

Aug. 11

Hollie Ann Brooks, 31, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, bicycle reflectors required, two counts failure to appear, $4,100 bail;

Cashman Cain Cage, 26, Alexandria – intentional exposure to the AIDS virus, aggravated battery of healthcare professional, simple assault, disturbing the peace, possession or introduce contraband to a municipal jail, possession of fentanyl, obstruction of justice, $66,000 bail;

Alexander Steve Carter, 25, Deville – two counts simple burglary, theft of a firearm, two counts criminal damage to critical infrastructure, parole violations, $225,000 bail;

Katlin Marie Cutts, 28, Alexandria – simple burglary, five counts contempt of court, $11,000 bail;

Alex Paul Deville, 46, Port Barre – possession of a firearm by convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension, $5,600 bail;

Michael Dewayne Fontenot Jr, 36, Basile – two counts possession of CDS to distribute, paraphernalia, monetary instrument abuse, $5,500 bail;

David N. Fuselier, 65, Alexandria – OWI first offense, contempt of court, failure to appear, $1,500 bail;

Cartier Green 25, Alexandria – four counts attempted murder, second degree battery, $2.25 million bail;

James Carrol Knapp, 48, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, probation violation, $50,000 bail;

Rowdy Tod Lopez, 43, Brazoria, Texas – OWI first offense, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, $1,100 bail;

Austin Auzlle Maxwell, 26, Dry Prong – violation of protective orders, violent, criminal trespass, $2,000 bail;

Makennie Rudd, 26, Boyce – no head lights, expired MVI sticker, driving under suspension, possession of marijuana, 13 counts contempt of court, $21,500 bail;

Devon Ryan, 29, Boyce – OWI first offense, failure to yield, failure to change driver’s license address, $1,200 bail;

Dravon Chasera Sellers, 43, Pineville – sex offender failure to register, parole violations, $1,500 bail;

Dezaric Shykie Sweazie, 24, Alexandria – contempt of court, $75,000 bail.

 

Aug. 10

Jackson Samuel Blais, 19, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, $15,000 bail;

Jason Blake Bush, 49, Wiergate, Texas – simple battery, disturbing the peace, $1,000 bail;

Nicholas Anthony Coco, 34, Alexandria – three counts possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing CDS with intent, legend drug possession, parole violations, $82,000 bail.