Alexandria International Airport (AEX) today announced the return of air service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. Daily, nonstop United Express flights will be operated by SkyWest Airlines beginning May 21, 2026, providing AEX travelers with access to United’s global network via the airline’s Houston hub. Passengers can begin booking flights on this new route beginning today, October 31, 2025, and accrue frequent flyer miles in United’s MileagePlus®loyalty program.

“For the past few years, Central Louisiana residents – and particularly, loyal United Airlines passengers – have been inquiring about the return of air service to Houston,” stated England Airpark and Alexandria International Airport Executive Director Ralph Hennessy. “We have continuously shared this feedback with United and are excited that they have partnered with SkyWest to resume this critical route for business and leisure travelers alike. We are grateful to both carriers for this investment in our community.”

“We’re excited to provide Central Louisiana travelers with new travel options and to make it easier for them to get where they want to go,” said Cody Thomas, Managing Director of Market Development at SkyWest Airlines. “Passengers flying through Houston will now be able to easily connect to hundreds of destinations worldwide on United’s global network.”

Customers may book flights from AEX to IAH immediately at united.com or by calling United reservations at 800.UNITED.1 (800-864-8331).

United Express Flights to Be Operated by SkyWest Airlines

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By JIM BUTLER

The City of Alexandria plans to shift housing grant funds from new construction assistance to existing structures rehabilitation.

Moving the money reflects a greater demand/need for overhauling owner-occupied structures than for new construction.

A hearing on the proposal will be held November 19 at 3 p.m. at the city’s Community Development office, 625 Murray St., third floor.

Involved is moving $25,000 from HOME new construction assistance to minor rehabilitation and $1.63 million from new construction to major rehab.

Funding comes under federal affordable housing programs.

Community Development officials have also scheduled a November 5 hearing for discussing needs in five target neighborhoods.

The hearing is part of the process for proposed use of 2026-27 HUD grant funds ($730,000) for various activities and benefits for low- and moderate-income residents.

A survey questionnaire regarding the topic is available at the Murray Street office or on the city’s website coa.com/communitydevelopment The target neighborhoods are North Alexandria, Central Business, Lower 3rd, South Alexandria and Samtown/Woodside.

Home Investment Partnerships funding involved totals $245,000; Community Development Block Grant money totals $485,000.

Proposed use includes code enforcement, demolition, housing counseling, homebuyer assistance, and new construction owner-occupied.

The HOME program, initiated by Congress in the early 1990s, promotes ownership, rehabilitation, rental repairs and rental assistance.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office once again showed its support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month through its annual Jean Days fundraiser benefiting the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Alexandria.

Sheriff Mark Wood authorized non-uniform personnel to wear jeans in exchange for donations, with proceeds going toward helping local cancer patients. The initiative, led by Deputy Emily Stokes of the Civil Department, raised $570 this year.

Sheriff Wood and Deputy Stokes recently presented the funds to Dr. Ince and staff at the cancer center. The donation will be used to purchase fuel gift cards for patients traveling to and from intensive treatments.

Sheriff Wood commended the department’s employees and contributors for their generosity and commitment to giving back to the community.

“The Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center provides vital care and support to patients and families across Central Louisiana,” Wood said. “We’re proud to do our part to make their journeys a little easier.”

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office plans to continue its Jean Days fundraiser next year in support of the ongoing fight against cancer.

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Louisiana emerged as a major winner at the 2025 JRNY America Awards in London last week, recognized with three of the 11 awards, earning more honors than any other U.S. destination. Louisiana was awarded the prestigious State of the Year, while the city of New Orleans received two additional accolades – Best Food City and Best New Tourism Initiative for the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service out of New Orleans.

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser praised the recognition as further proof that Louisiana’s cultural richness and accessibility are drawing visitors from around the world. “We’ve always said there’s nowhere quite like Louisiana – and the world is taking notice,” said Lt. Governor Nungesser. “International travelers are discovering that Louisiana offers everything they’re looking for: incredible food, music, and history, all at an unbeatable value. These awards are a testament to our people, our diverse culture, and the unforgettable experiences that make visitors feel right at home.”

According to the JRNY America Awards committee, the State of the Year award honors destinations that demonstrate excellence in tourism through innovation, sustainability, and visitor satisfaction. Louisiana’s selection reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting authentic culture, exceptional hospitality, and one-of-a-kind experiences across every region of the state.

“Louisiana is one of the best international destinations in the world. With its diversity of culture, music, and food, Louisiana stands out among the 49 other states,” said Louisiana Office of Tourism Assistant Secretary Doug Bourgeois. “I’m so proud Louisiana won this award. This recognition is a tribute to the cumulative efforts of Louisiana’s tourism industry to create rewarding, authentic experiences that keep visitors coming back.”

The JRNY America Awards celebrate the very best in American tourism, recognizing destinations, experiences, and organizations that make exploring the United States truly unforgettable. Each award honors innovation, creativity, and passion within the travel industry, highlighting those who enrich the visitor experience and showcase the diversity of America’s landscapes, cultures, and communities.

The JRNY America Awards feature 11 categories judged by a panel of travel industry experts, including authors, editors, tour operators, destination managers, and sustainability professionals.

JRNY magazine is a leading travel publication in the United Kingdom and is expanding its reach into the U.S. and Australia.

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Remember to set your clocks back one hour Sunday, November 2, which is when Daylight Saving Time officially ends for 2025. It will resume Sunday, March 8, 2026 and run through Sunday, November 1, 2026.

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A love letter to my mother. Written by Cheryl Bucci.

My mother was born on June 17, 1949, in West Babylon, NY – a town in Suffolk County on Long Island, New York. Her parents, Norman Leistman and Velia Ruoppoli, met in Naples Italy when my grandfather, Norman, was stationed there as an American Serviceman in World War II. My mother was raised in West Babylon along with her older brother, George, and her younger sisters, Lynn and Bridgette.

My mother and father were married in 1969 and moved to Brooklyn, NY. Once I was born, we moved out to the town of Lynbrook in Nassau County, Long Island, New York. My mother had a number of careers – retail sales, jeweler, real estate agent, and for the last decade or so of her working career – she worked reception and billing in multiple doctors’ offices. She was a woman of many talents, and in her retirement became an avid antique and craft hobbyist – who sold her pieces at The Treasure Chest in Alexandria, LA and Pineville, LA.

After my mother and father divorced, my mother moved to Louisiana in 1995 to be closer to her family, who all migrated down to Louisiana to be close together. Velia’s sister, Elena, married Archibald Mathews of Alexandria and settled in town, as did Velia’s brother and his wife, Alfred and Loretta Ruoppoli, moving from Long Island, New York. Mom moved to her current residence in the late 1999s and has been there ever since.

My mom was a strong, independent woman, who was proud of her Italian heritage and New York roots. She never lost her New York accent and would always refer to herself as a “Yankee”, even after living in Louisiana for 30 years. She infused life with Italian traditions, food, and words – though most of those words were used to yell at me or someone else in the family – and she loved sharing those experiences with everyone around her.

For so much of her life she was always busy doing something – whether going to garage sales or lunching with friends or making windchimes – my mother was a do-er. She was also the most capable person I’ve ever met – whether it be mending clothes with holes, stabilizing chairs with wobbly legs, or fixing picture frames and toys. Anything could get a good fix in her hands.

Mom could make friends with anyone – and would frequently tell strangers a funny story – whether while shopping or waiting at the doctor. Many times, she’d make others or herself laugh till they cried… or peed… or both. She lived with joy and brought it to everyone she met. This is evident in the outpouring of visits and well-wishes she received from so many people in the last few years of her life, when she bravely battled colon and stomach cancer. There were always people coming and going out of her house – and she’d hold court in her recliner just ordering everyone around – which is something she also loved doing.

My mother was, without a doubt, the best mother, sister, niece, aunt, grandmother, and friend in the world. She was loyal beyond belief. She never wavered in her love for me – no matter how I succeeded or failed. She always told me that we would never let anything come between us – whether we had differences of opinion or arguments – our relationship overcame it all and she was a shining light during every tough time I ever had. She was the most loving grandmother to my children – Henry and Caroline – who have grown up knowing that Nana would always have gifts, hugs, back scratches and hair brushing ready for them when they saw her. She loved her family with a fierceness that made her the ultimate matriarch. Mom had everyone’s back always, and we knew it. There was never a time when you weren’t welcome in her home, and we gathered with her whenever we could. We even watched hours of shows with her about big foot, ancient aliens, and Maine cabins – cherishing the time we got to be in her presence – because she was pure, fierce, selfless love.

Mom – you made this family strong and filled with love, and I am me only because of your courage, your support, and your convictions. You built a network of friends around you who celebrate laughter and creativity. No one will ever forget you – you will be with us, in our hearts forever. WE LOVE YOU.

Victoria is survived by her brother and sisters – and George Leistman, Lynn (Leistman) McCloskey, and Bridgette Volpi, her daughter – Cheryl Bucci, her grandson and granddaughter – Henry Abel and Caroline Abel, her aunt – Loretta Ruoppoli, her nephews and nieces – Kevin Leistman, John McCloskey, Jr., Lauren Leistman, and Margaret McCloskey, her best friend – Anne Cross, her pet bird (a 22 year old cockatiel) – Sunny, and her dog (an 11 year old Cavapoo) – Oreo.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Velia (Ruoppoli) Leistman and Norman Leistman, her beloved dogs, Cookie and Dino.

Victoria Emelia Bucci, 76, of Alexandria, passed away on Sunday, October 26, 2025, in her residence.

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Curtis Harbor was born April 9th, 1945, to the late Harry Ceasor Sr. and Ella Mae Harbor, where he grew up in Wildsville, LA. He was called to eternal rest Thursday, October 23rd, 2025. Curtis was deeply committed to his work, spending over 25 years at Bunge before retiring due to disability. He was known for his love of animals, his great taste in music, his pride in keeping his vehicles spotless, and his generosity in helping others.

Curtis leaves behind five beloved children: Candy Finister (Michael), Kevin Woods (Junita), Regetta Woods (William), Curtis Bullitts (Natasha), and Delinda Price (Tramone Sr.), along with Sam Bullitts and Shiela Crumpton, whom he lovingly helped raise and cared for as his own. He has 15 grandchildren: Brandon, Ja’Marcus, Ri’Nisha, Rasha, Curtis Jr., Destinee, Alasha, Aaron, Samari, Samiya, Saniya, Salaja, Savannah, Tramone Jr., and Tramaine; and two great-grandchildren.

Curtis is survived by his siblings Ophelia Hatten (Joe Henry), Gerald Ceasor, Raymond Woods, Larry Woods, George Harbor (Amanda), Wilma Anderson (Mike), and Leta Harbor. He was preceded in death by his siblings Erma Myles, Stella Harbor, Jane Harbor, Lillie Ceasor-Edwards, Jessie C. Thompson, Arthur “Buck” Harbor, Collins Harbor Jr., Charles Harbor, Richard Harbor, Solomon Harbor, Johnny Harbor, James Harbor, Harry Ceasor Jr., H.B. Ceasor, Joe Ceasor, Herman Ceasor, and Alton Ceasor Sr.

A special mention goes to his nephew David Vernon Ceasor, with whom he shared a deep and lasting bond; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Curtis’s love, laughter, and guidance will forever live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

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The Rapides Parish School Board announced that beginning Monday, Nov. 3, all district transactions will move to a cashless system. Payments for school items, activities, and fees will now be made electronically through SchoolCash Online, providing families with a secure and convenient way to manage accounts.

Accepted payment methods will include credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments. The new system offers several benefits for families and schools alike, including:

• 24/7 access for online purchases
• Elimination of the need for students to carry cash
• Secure, contactless, and user-friendly transactions
• Centralized management of all student activity fees from one account
• Email notifications when new items are available for purchase
• Easy access to receipts and transaction history

How to register:

• Go to rpsb.schoolcashonline.com and click Register.
• Enter your first name, last name, email address, and create a password.
• Select a security question.
• Select YES to receive email notifications (note that you will not receive any promotional emails).
• You will receive a confirmation via email. Check your Spam folder if you don’t receive it.
• Use your email address and password to log in to your account.

How to add children to your account:

• Sign in to SchoolCash Online: rpsb.schoolcashonline.com
• At the top of the page, navigate to My Account.
• From the dropdown menu, select My Students.
• Click to add a child.
• Type your school board name.
• Choose your school from the list.
• Enter your child’s details. You may add up to 8 students to your account.
• Click Confirm.

How to make a payment:

• Select the item which you would like to purchase & click Add to Cart.
• Once you have finished adding items to your cart, click Continue to make a payment.

With this transition, Rapides Parish Public Schools aim to make school payments more efficient, transparent, and secure for both parents and staff.

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A traffic stop and 38-mile vehicle pursuit that ended in a single-vehicle crash on I-49 near Rapides Station in Rapides Parish resulted in the arrests of a male and female suspect, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright. It began on Oct. 29, around 10:30 a.m., when NPSO Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby, working a special speed enforcement detail, attempted to stop a 2015 GMC Yukon traveling southbound on I-49 near mile marker #132 for speeding 88 miles per hour in a posted 75 mph zone.

When Cpl. Kerby exited her patrol unit and attempted to make contact with the female driver, the driver fled the scene. A pursuit ensued southbound on I-49. Louisiana State Police Troop-E (Alexandria) was contacted to assist, along with additional NPSO deputies. The pursuit continued southbound, reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph. The suspect vehicle avoided a tire deflation device deployed by deputies north of Chopin, exited the interstate at Chopin, then re-entered I-49 and exited again at Lena. Deputies reported the vehicle struck several guardrails during the pursuit.

The pursuit entered Rapides Parish, where Louisiana State Police Troopers successfully deployed a tire deflation device near Rapides Station. The vehicle continued a short distance before the driver apparently lost control, causing the Yukon to overturn and come to rest in the right lane of the interstate.

Following the crash, a male and female fled on foot down an embankment, crossing a ditch and fence before being taken into custody by Louisiana State Police Troopers without further incident.

Both suspects were transported by Pafford Ambulance to an Alexandria hospital for treatment of minor injuries and later released.

As a result of the investigation:

•Charidi S. Lopez, 44, of Mission, Texas, the driver, was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on Louisiana State Police charges.

She also faces the following Natchitoches Parish charges:
Speeding 88/75
Speeding 100+/75
No Seat Belt
Aggravated Flight from an Officer

•Wilbur L. Heard Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama, the passenger, was found to be wanted in Alabama on outstanding warrants. Heard was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on those warrants and additional State Police charges.

Louisiana State Police Troop-E Troopers investigated the crash. When questioned by deputies about her decision to flee, Lopez reportedly stated she “didn’t want Heard to go to jail.”

Sheriff Stuart Wright commended the professionalism and teamwork displayed by all responding agencies.

“This incident shows the dangers our deputies and state troopers face daily when motorists choose to flee instead of complying with lawful orders,” said Sheriff Wright. “We’re grateful for the seamless coordination and support from the Louisiana State Police and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office in bringing this pursuit to a safe conclusion.”

The investigation is continuing. Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby was assisted by Deputy Lt. M. Powell, Deputy Sgt. C. Olliff, Louisiana State Police, Troop-E Troopers and Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office. Mugshots are currently unavailable while they remain in the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

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By JIM BUTLER

The state is soliciting bids for construction of LSU Alexandria’s downtown health services center.

Nursing and all other health-related programs offered by the university will eventually move to the center at Jackson & 9th Streets.

The Office of Facility Planning & Control in Baton Rouge will receive bids through December 10.

Project architects are Ashe Broussard Weinzette of Alexandria.

Funding for the multi-million, 70,000 square feet project is a combination of state appropriations and local donor pledges.

Another LSUA project is being bid in November.

The Facility Planning unit will accept offers through the 20th for masonry repairs to Mulder Hall on the campus south of Alexandria.

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Louisiana will use $150 million monthly in state funds to continue food assistance for elderly, disabled and child recipients after federal SNAP benefits halt Saturday due to the government shutdown, Gov. Jeff Landry announced Wednesday.

The state will automatically provide November benefits to approximately 565,000 vulnerable residents without requiring requalification, Landry said. Payments will be uploaded to EBT cards during the first four days of November.

About 53,000 households with able-bodied adults will not receive the temporary state benefits. Landry encouraged those recipients to seek employment, citing more than 100,000 job openings statewide.

Nearly 793,000 Louisiana residents — roughly one in five — rely on SNAP benefits, according to the governor’s office. That includes about 356,800 children, 88,200 seniors and more than 120,000 people with disabilities.

The Louisiana Legislature unanimously approved a resolution Friday authorizing the state Department of Health to tap its budget and the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund for the emergency funding. Landry signed an emergency declaration Oct. 23 enabling the fund release.

Louisiana is one of eight states and the only one in the Gulf South providing such assistance during the shutdown.

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The City of Alexandria’s ATRANS public transit system announced that the Elliott/Cabrini route will be temporarily out of service from Oct. 29 through Saturday, Nov. 1. Service on the route is expected to resume on Monday, Nov. 3.

For the latest updates and route information, visit cityofalexandriala.com/bus-routes-atrans.

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Pineville Junior High School has named Aysia Jones as its 2025–2026 Student of the Year. Jones exemplifies what it means to be a Volunteer—aiming higher, growing stronger, and giving her best in all that she does.

Recognized for her leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to the school community, Jones continues to inspire her peers through her dedication, respect, and positive attitude.

The faculty and staff of Pineville Junior High congratulated Jones on this outstanding accomplishment and commended her for the example she sets for others.

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Alexandria Senior High School has announced Campbell Oas as its 2025–2026 Student of the Year.

Oas was recognized for outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and dedication to the ASH community. Faculty and staff congratulated Oas on this well-deserved honor and celebrated the positive example set for fellow students.

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NATCHITOCHES – Patience is a virtue — and one the Northwestern State football team is learning to master through experience.

As perhaps the youngest team in America, the Demons have faced one of the toughest schedules in the country, testing a roster filled with underclassmen against championship-caliber opponents week after week. The results haven’t always shown up on the scoreboard, but the progress has, in flashes of big-play potential, in resilience, and in the growing confidence of a team building toward its future.

“We are one of the youngest teams in America, so for us young guys we have to step up,” redshirt freshman Braden Woods said. “I see that trend a lot in the locker room for the younger guys having to step up and compete with the older teams that we’re playing. It’s a great thing to see.”

That youth movement is no small thing — 23 players classified as true or redshirt freshmen have seen game action this season. For head coach Blaine McCorkle, now in his second season leading the rebuilding program, it’s a sign that the foundation for long-term success is being laid one rep, one lesson and one game at a time.

For Woods, a Natchitoches native, the journey has been a fast-moving one. He recorded his first career tackle, an eight-yard sack, in unforgettable fashion – against Minnesota, a Power Four opponent, earlier this season. Since then, his role has steadily expanded, especially in recent weeks as injuries and defensive scheme adjustments have created new opportunities. Woods has seized them, becoming a player defensive coordinator Matt Conner increasingly leans on.

He rewarded that trust with a career-high seven tackles and a sack in last week’s game against No. 15 Lamar, underscoring the kind of work ethic that his classmates possess and continue to display since day one.

“If I had one word to describe my class, it’s that we grind,” Woods said. “We know we’re not as big, strong or fast, so we just have to grind to get better week in and week out.”

That grind has come against a gauntlet of opponents — including two Power Four programs and two straight Top 20 FCS teams, one of the toughest schedules in the country this year and in program history — but the effort is starting to bear fruit. In that Lamar matchup, true freshman receivers Brendan Webb and Alexandria Senior High’s Jimmie Duncan combined for 199 receiving yards on six catches, both hauling in passes of more than 50 yards. Those breakout plays offered a glimpse of the future — explosive, confident and ready to rise.

“This week in particular Coach McCorkle talked a lot about ‘the turning point,’” Woods said. “We knew we’ve been playing ranked teams. We played two really good P4 teams. So we’ve been grinding and getting better each week and we’re just waiting for that turning point. It could come tomorrow or next year, we don’t know, but I think it’s coming soon and this program is on the uprise.”

Signs of that turning point emerge every week, not just in numbers, but in moments that reveal the team’s heart. 

When senior center Caleb Billiot helped spin freshman quarterback Abram Johnston, the only freshman starting quarterback in the Southland Conference, into the end zone against Lamar to cap an eight-play scoring drive, it became more than a highlight. It was a snapshot of what McCorkle’s program is all about: veterans leading, young players learning and everyone pushing together.

“That’s the kind of grit our coaches like,” redshirt freshman offensive lineman Ralee Jackson said. “The relentless effort. Just trying to get everything you can. That’s exactly what Caleb showed. The coaches call him a ‘foxhole guy,’ somebody you can rely on and has your back. Him doing that type of thing shows how everybody should be playing at all times.”

Moments like that have also helped tighten the bond of a roster that’s growing up together.

“My freshman class got here and we got close fast,” Jackson said. “We were having game nights the first week we were here. All of us just gelling together. And the majority of the team being young I think makes us closer.”

That chemistry has carried onto the field, where underclassmen are not only gaining experience but contributing in meaningful ways. Jackson is one of three starting offensive lineman classified as a sophomore or younger, alongside Logan Brady (redshirt freshman) and Garrett Morphis (sophomore). 

They were three of the six redshirt freshman starters in NSU’s most recent game against Lamar.

“A lot of us are playing right now,” Jackson said. “We had six redshirt freshmen touch the ball last game. We had redshirt freshmen making tackles, making plays — whatever the case may be. That shows the guys that aren’t on the field yet that if we all work together and stay here for four or five years, we can totally flip this program. Coach McCorkle talks about that all the time. He makes sure that we know we’re really close and we need to stick to the process and stay consistent and we’ll get there.”

That process, and the patience it demands, has been McCorkle’s consistent message since his arrival.

“There’s a verse in Galatians we talk about as a team all the time.  Galatians 6:9 says: ‘Don’t grow weary in doing good, for in time you will reap a harvest if you don’t give up,’” McCorkle said. “Sowing and reaping don’t happen in the same season. You sow your seeds. You work, water and plant, and when the time comes, you harvest. It’d be nice to do it all in the same season, but it doesn’t always work that way. We’re doing a lot of sowing right now, but we know good days are ahead. Every day we are one day closer to turning the corner — and that’s exciting and gives us hope.”

Through the grind, the growing pains and the glimpses of promise like Webb and Duncan’s breakouts and Woods’ rising impact, that hope feels more tangible than ever.

“We can have a very narrow eyesight at times,” Jackson said. “So when things like that happen, it kind of opens things up. I think it takes away some doubts that people might have in the team or the players and shows them that we can do it — we just have to execute.”

The future of Demon football continues to be written every single week, on the field, in practice, in the classroom and in the hearts and minds of a connected group of players all striving for the same goal. 

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

 

Oct. 29

Richard S. Crooks, 64, Alexandria – create distribute or possess counterfeit CDS with intent, no bail data;

Weston Shaine Ray, 40, Pineville – contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Rousline D. Washington, 58, Alexandria – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Jeremy Daniel Whittington, 36, Cottonport – three counts contempt of court, $3,000 bail;

Jamarrel Martez Williams, 42, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing with intent CDS, two counts create distribute possess with intent counterfeit CDS, parole violations, no bail data.

 

Oct. 28

Mark David Bowers, 60, Pineville – exploitation of the infirmed, $1,000 bail;

Dakota Keith Brister, 31, Colfax – four counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Daniel Antonio Claiborne, 32, Boyce – two counts contempt of court, $28,000 bail;

Kendrell Jaquan Hymes, 24, Alexandria – five counts contempt of court, two counts failure to appear, $127,500 bail;

Aaron Wayne King, 37, Calcasieu – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data.

 

Oct. 27

Brandon Lasalle Allen, 39, Alexandria – two counts possession of stolen property, parole violations, $2,000 bail;

Tristian Lane Blankenship, 25, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, $3,500 bail;

Jeffrey Bobb, 41, Boyce – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Lance Cole, 38, West Monroe – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

James Charles Davis Jr, 50, Alexandria – two counts aggravated battery, possession of CDS, three counts producing manufacturing, distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, probation violation, $27,000 bail;

James Micheal Easter, 34, Boyce – possession of CDS, flight from an officer, speeding, running a stop sign, $7,700 bail;

Ethan Ebey, 35, Alexandria – identity theft of 65 years or older or disabled person, theft, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, three counts contempt of court, $68,000 bail;

Archie Cole Free Jr., 50, Plainview – hit and run driving, careless operation of a vehicle, $600 bail;

Douglas Wayne Gilbert, 49, Boyce – no MVI sticker, driving under suspension, possession of CDS, $2,700 bail;

Cody Wayne Hicks, 37, Dry Prong – four counts contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Ariel Elizabeth Keller, 30, Forest Hill – theft, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, $1,000 bail;

Lacey Danae Meaux, 42, Pineville – possession of fentanyl, paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, switched license plate, no insurance, $1,100 bail;

Dereck Darnell Taylor Sr., 54, Alexandria – contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Kaely Nachelle Toney, 26, Alexandria – burglary of an inhabited dwelling, no bail data;

Morgan Wesley Walters, 30, Calcasieu – OWI third offense, child desertion, obstruction of justice, altering or removal of VIN numbers, intentional littering, reckless operation of a vehicle, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, off road vehicle on public road, $33,100 bail;

Trenton Jamal Williams, 35, Pineville – possession of paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, obstruction of justice, $1,000 bail;

Anthony T. Wilson, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $2,500 bail.

 

Oct. 26

Jonathan Arnold, 30, Alexandria – possession of a firearm by convicted felon, unattended vehicle, $12,600 bail;

Hollie Ann Brooks, 31, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, disturbing the peace, possession of marijuana, $4,000 bail;

Willie Byrd Jr., 58, Alexandria – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, illegal possession of stolen things, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Samantha Edwards, 35, Alexandria – criminal trespass, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $3,500 bail;

Jonathan Charles Harris, 40, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, criminal trespass, $3,500 bail;

Cheves Whitehead Sr., 47, Houston – sex offender failure to renew registration, contempt of court, contempt of non-support, $8,000 bail.

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Funeral services for Mr. Levy Lee “Bud” Dyer, Sr. will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Hineston, with Reverend Benji Rhame officiating. Interment will follow in Burrough Cemetery, Gardner, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Mr. Dyer, 76, of Elmer, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in his residence surrounded by his loving family.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. An avid fisherman, he faithfully took his aluminum boat out on Saturday mornings to Saline Lake, gliding across the water with his trusty wooden paddle. Bud had a special love for children, and it was his oldest granddaughter who first gave him the nickname “Bud,” a name that quickly caught on with the entire family. He took great pride in teaching his youngest granddaughter, Alexis, how to drive along the back roads, a memory she’ll always cherish. Known for his motto, “early to bed, early to rise,” Bud spent his life working hard as a skilled carpenter, able to build just about anything he set his mind to. He also spent part of his life logging timber in the woods, where his strong work ethic and craftsmanship were always evident. Bud and his beloved wife, Judy, shared many joys together, from trips to the casino to cheering on their favorite WWF wrestling matches. And as anyone who knew him would say, Bud was truly made for the water, a belief made even stronger by his famously webbed toes. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Levy and Mary Dyer; one son, Levy Lee Dyer, Jr.; two brothers, Donald Dyer and Bill Dyer; and two sisters, Peggy Hale and Wanda Cole.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife of fifty-four and a half years, Judy Dyer of Elmer; two granddaughters, Lauren Dyer of Otis, and Alexis Dyer of Otis; one daughter-in-law, Sandra Dyer of Otis; two bonus grandsons, Tyler Farmer and Lane Farmer; three brothers, Ronnie Dyer of Deville, Terry Jo Dyer of Deville, and Mike Dyer of Kolin; one sister, Dana Bridges of Georgia; and one sister-in-law, Sharon Dyer of Deville.

A time of visitation will be held in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Hineston, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Tyler Farmer, Lane Farmer, Sam Clark, Ken Goleman, Jeffery Cook, and Tracy Lachney. Honorary pallbearer will be Eric Tolbert.

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Graveside services for Mr. Larry Louis Bordelon were held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Restland Memorial Gardens, Pollock, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Bordelon, 80, of Ball, entered eternal rest on Monday, October 27, 2025, in his residence surrounded by his loving family.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. In his spare time, he loved spending days outdoors hunting and fishing, tending to his garden, and crafting furniture by hand. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Dorothy Bordelon.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife of forty-two years, Brenda Lynn Bordelon of Ball; one son, Kevin Bordelon of Dry Prong; two daughters, Christian Carrington (Lacey) of Lake Charles, and Tiffany Bordelon of Ball; two brothers, Sam Bordelon (Nora) of Marksville, and Terry Bordelon (Carol) of Deville; one sister, Doris Coulon of Marksville; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

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