By JIM BUTLER

Debate over carbon capture tops the Rapides Parish Journal’s 2025 story rankings.

The gap between the opposing points of view is wide — one camp saying the process threatens water and soil quality, the other contends there is no evidence of such claims.

Police jurors voted to create a panel to solicit available information before they consider a vote for or against.

Other stories in the subjective Top 10:

• Diocesan bankruptcy filing;
• Alexandria City Council sustains veto of reapportionment vote;
• Pafford wins ambulance contract;
• Enrollment surge continues at LSU Alexandria;
• Head Start moved from School Board;
• Utility study recommends updating Alexandria rate structure;
• Tom Bouchie, after six terms, leaves Pineville Council;
• Violent crimes;
• Dining out scene a mix of openings and closings, with Olive Garden anxiously awaited by its fans.

What’s your top story? What would you add to list? Drop?

Send us an email at rpjstories2025@yahoo.com by December 29 and we’ll share readers’ rankings.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that the northbound inside (left) lane of I-49 northbound in Rapides Parish, approximately one mile north of Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek), is closed.

This lane closure is necessary due to a crash involving an 18-wheeler that impacted a bridge piling along I-49.

This lane will remain closed until repairs can be conducted, which is anticipated to be several weeks. A more specific time frame will be available once the bridge inspected is conducted and a repair plan is formalized.

Restrictions/Permits: Oversized loads are to detour utilizing US 71. All other vehicles – no detour is necessary.

Alternate Route: N/A

Safety reminder:

DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. Remember to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Area residents should exercise caution when driving, walking, or biking near an active construction zone.

Additional information:

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

An RPJ reader visiting the Alexandria Mall on Sunday reported seeing a notice posted outside the Chick-fil-A location announcing that the restaurant will permanently close at the end of the year.  

Publisher’s note: A review of Chick-fil-A’s corporate website did not reveal any official announcements regarding this Alexandria location; the only Louisiana closure referenced earlier this year involved the Chick-fil-A food court location at Acadiana Mall in Lafayette, which closed permanently.

The Children’s Advocacy Network recognized the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Warden Goudeau, Warden Winegeart, and employees of Rapides Parish Detention Center III for their donation to the organization’s Christmas Toy Drive on Dec. 18.

The contribution supported the Children’s Advocacy Network’s mission to help heal and advocate for abused and neglected children throughout Central Louisiana. Organization representatives expressed appreciation for the continued partnership and community support shown by the Sheriff’s Office and detention center staff.

Rapides Parish 4-H Junior Leaders volunteered at The Good Food Project on December 18, where they worked to remove weeds and plant brussel sprouts as part of a community service effort.

Following their work in the garden, the students were recognized with a Christmas party at the 4-H office in appreciation of their dedication and commitment to making a positive impact in the community.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Dec. 21

Leelan Drake Deal, 18, Pineville – OWI first offense, speeding, improper lane usage, driving under suspension, improper fenders, modified exhaust, improper window tint, contempt of court, $4,100 bail;

Dru Phillip Lasyone, 33, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Cedric Shane Pierce, 43, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $202,000 bail;

Raul Reyes, 40, Ball – OWI third offense, improper lane usage, no drivers license, open container, $300 bail;

Jeremy Joseph Skyles, 38, Slidell – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, driving under suspension, improper vehicle license plate, $1,300 bail.

Dec. 20

Kaleb Lane Bolton, 29, Boyce – OWI first offense, modified exhaust, contempt of court, $6,100 bail;

Terrancella Eshea Booze, 53, Alexandria – simple battery, nine counts contempt of court, $27,000 bail;

Kaylea Marie Bordelon, 25, Pineville – possession of CDS, three counts contempt of court, $11,500 bail;

Lavonda De’accquandeak Coleman, 35, Alexandria – flight from an officer, running a stop sign, tail lights red light, $1,200 bail;

Lawrence Eugene Fuglaar III, 54, Pineville – aggravated battery, domestic abuse battery strangulation, resisting an officer, violation protective order, $2,000 bail;

Blake George, 20, Pineville – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Frederick Gordon Jr., 36, Alexandria – five counts contempt of court, $16,500 bail;

Michael Wayne Logan Jr., 55, Woodworth – possession of firearm by convicted felon, paraphernalia, contempt of court, $2,000 bail;

Elijah Eugene Turner, 23, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, improper display license plate, operating an unsafe vehicle, $50,700 bail;

Anthony T. Wilson, 39, Alexandria – seven counts contempt of court, $14,000 bail.

Dec. 19

Kenneth Wayne Antoine Jr., 42, Alexandria – possession of CDS, domestic abuse battery, $1,500 bail;

Joshua James Arnold, 42, Pineville – create distribute possession with intent counterfeit CDS, resisting an officer, parole violations, $500 bail;

Tyrese Deon Hagan, 21, Alexandria – domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment, contempt of court, $2,700 bail;

Gregory Dayle Hattaway, 65, Pineville – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Nicholas Isaac, 27, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, probation violation, no bail data;

Richard Lewis Jones Jr., 62, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, domestic abuse battery strangulation, aggravated battery, no bail data.

Dec. 18

Sabrina Quanette Bowie, 41, Lecompte – five counts contempt of court, $58,000 bail;

Marquise Jamal Howard, 31, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, intersection turning, improper display of vehicle license plate, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $15,700 bail;

Wesley Chase Hukins, 29, Pineville – possession of CDS, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, $2,000 bail;

Reginald Demon Jackson, 40, Alexandria – possession of CDS, two counts possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, $3,000 bail;

Jeffrey Alan Miles, 53, Marksville – theft, $2,500 bail;

Eddick Kindricks Moore, 49, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Jason Chad Smith, 55, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, legend drug possession, paraphernalia, driving under suspension, obstruction of drivers view, no insurance, parole violations, $3,300 bail;

John Thompson, 58, Spearsville – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Tramaine Bernard Vallery, 43, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, driving under suspension, two counts contempt of court, $50,600 bail;

Madison Bailey West, 21, Elmer – OWI first offense, hit and run driving, improper lane usage, safety belt violation, $1,700 bail;

Dontarius L. Williams, 25, Alexandria – two counts illegal carrying of a firearm at a parade, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, resisting an officer, $30,500 bail.

Dec. 17

Dornika Danielle Coleman, 38, Ball – four counts contempt of court, $25,000 bail;

Jackson Luke Dennis, 18, Centerpoint – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,100 bail;

Kayla Renee Gardner, 37, Deville – three counts identity theft, theft, criminal damage to property, $2,500 bail;

Michael Carroll Guillory, 43, Pineville – unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, criminal damage to property, $2,000 bail;

Lecharles Dante Johnson, 43, Alexandria – remaining on premises, two counts resisting arrest, six counts contempt of court, disturbing peace, $26,500 bail;

Cedrick Mcginnis, 24, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Kelsey Racquel Normand, 27, Dry Prong – theft, contempt of court, $10,500 bail;

Derek Bradford Redfearn, 43, Ball – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

Jeremy Lamar Rice, 35, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, bicycle reflectors, contempt of court, $7,100 bail;

Alva Brooks Tealer Jr., 36, Alexandria – two counts Louisiana fugitive, eight counts contempt of court, $57,500 bail;

Nathaniel Keith Thomas, 30, Alexandria – theft, theft second subsequent conviction, $1,500 bail;

Barbara Ann Wade, 75, Deville – murder of a law officer, accessory after the fact, $55,000 bail;

Carl Alvin Wilkerson III, 40, Alexandria – battery of a dating partner, two counts contempt of court, $4,500 bail.

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Kim Marie Collins, age 58 of Colfax, Louisiana entered eternal rest on Thursday, December 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering love for her family.

Services honoring Kim took place on Dec. 21 at the Gallagher Funeral Home.

Pallbearers honored to serve were Casey Collins, Patrick Panzica, William T. John Hall, Kevin Deville, Randy Holt, and David Brown.

Kim is preceded in death by her sons, Jefferey Paul Hall and Brian Dell Collins; granddaughter, Destiny Collins, and parents, William John Hall, II and Toni Holt (Sam).

Those left to cherish her memories are her husband, William Collins; sons, Cody Collins, Patrick Panzica, and Casey Collins (Lacy); daughters, Rebecca Walker and Melissa Perry (Jimmy); brothers, T. John Hall (Andrea), Kevin Deville (Sarah), Randall Holt (Christine), Troy Holt, Ricky Holt, and Chris Holt; sisters, Elisa Bermudez (Francisco) and Elonda Deville; ; eight grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

Kim’s life was defined by a profound calling to care for others. She built her career from the ground up, beginning as a CNA while she worked her way through nursing school. After becoming an LPN, she served in various nursing homes before finding her true niche in mental health. During her years at Crossroads Regional and Oceans Behavioral Hospitals, she became a pillar of the staff, remembered for her gentle spirit and the genuine dignity she offered every patient in her care. Beyond the hospital walls, Kim spent her summers as a steady, kind presence at 4-H Camp Grant Walker, where she left an enduring mark on the lives of countless children. In her quieter moments, she found peace and joy in fishing, appreciating the calm of the water and the simple beauty of nature. Above all else, she cherished her family, who were the center of her world. Her greatest joy came from time spent with her loved ones, especially her grandbabies, whom she adored beyond measure.

She will be remembered for her warm smile, generous heart, and the countless ways she made others feel cared for and valued. Her absence leaves a profound void, but her love and example will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

James Potter, age 76, passed away on December 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas.

Born on January 7, 1949, in Pineville, Louisiana, James was the beloved son of Edgar Potter and Alma Marie Bruney Potter. Known for his warm personality and remarkable ability to remember everyone and their families, James never met a stranger and touched the lives of many in his community.

James held a state track record in 1968 and could still ride a bike backward, a testament to his playful spirit and enduring energy. He was a determined family man, loving, loyal, tough, funny, and strong in his faith-a true walking encyclopedia who was always ready to share his wisdom and humor.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Jackie Potter of LeBlanc; his children, Jamie Potter and wife Gail of Kinder, Louisiana, Jason Potter and wife Lisa of Cynthiana, Kentucky, Jon Potter and wife Gena of LeBlanc, Louisiana, Jenny Potter of Arizona, and Jessica Potter of Bridge City, Texas. James was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Lana Davis and Bobby Potter, along with a large extended family and many cherished friends.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Alma Marie Potter; siblings, Benny Potter and Carl Hardin; brothers-in-law, George Davis and Johnny Lee Dillon; and mother-in-law, Florence Nichols.
James Potter will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his kindness, laughter, and strength of character. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and friendship that will be cherished by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends Monday, December 22, 2025, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume Tuesday December 23, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 2:00 p.m., in Reed Chapel at Riley Smith & Sons, 315 N. 14th Street, Kinder, Louisiana. Pastor Jimmie White will officiate the service.

Interment will follow at Elisha Memorial Cemetery, 1-99 Murry Weatherford Road, Glenmora, Louisiana.

By JIM BUTLER

An increase in the number of requests for copies of GAEDA public records has prompted the panel to establish a fee for them.

Attorney Tiffany Sanders told the reconstituted authority membership (District 3 appointee Zendrea Whitehead took her oath of office) that a reasonable fee is allowable under state law.

She noted to this point the agency has met such requests, which have grown over the past few months, without charge, absorbing all the cost.

A request by recently resigned member and chairman Dr. Ray Lewis for 15 years of records reinforced the need for a fee such as is in effect at almost every public body.

The commissioners accepted her recommendation of 25 cents per copy page.

The fee will not apply to Lewis or any other records request already in hand.

In other action the Authority approved 2026 letters of engagement with Sanders and its accounting/auditing firm, Knight Madden.

It delayed renewing Executive Director Angela Varnado’s contract.

The current agreement doesn’t expire until February and commissioners wanted opportunity to become more familiar with terms.

The panel heard an overview of next year’s budget. Roughly speaking, it foresees $350,000 in operating expenses and $650,000 for economic development.

Spending a chunk of that — close to $90,000 — was authorized for various activities and events as far ahead as October.

Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) proudly welcomed newly installed LSU System President Dr. Wade Rousse and his Chief of Staff, Jason French, for their first official visit to an LSU regional campus. As one of the fastest-growing undergraduate institutions in the South, LSUA was honored to serve as the inaugural stop on President Rousse’s statewide tour of the LSU System. Throughout the day, Dr. Rousse engaged with university leadership, enjoyed an informative lunch with students, participated in a productive campus-wide meeting with representatives from all academic and business units, and toured LSUA’s rapidly expanding campus footprint.

A group of people posing for a photo.
LSUA continues to emerge as a standout institution within the LSU family, earning national and statewide recognition for its academic quality, student success, and commitment to serving rural and first-generation students. Recently ranked #4 Best College in Louisiana by Niche.com and #14 Best Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report, LSUA has also been featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education for its innovative work in expanding college access and opportunity across rural Louisiana. These accomplishments reflect LSUA’s strategic growth, record-breaking enrollment, and the deep community partnerships that continue to propel the institution forward.

President Rousse’s visit evidences the university’s essential role in the LSU System. As LSU’s only undergraduate-only institution, LSUA serves as a vital pipeline to LSU’s professional schools, sending more students than ever into fields such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, law, engineering, and allied health. Driven by effective, forward-thinking leadership and powered by engaged, student-centered faculty, LSUA is preparing the workforce that Louisiana needs while offering families an affordable, high-quality LSU degree close to home.

LSUA looks forward to continued collaboration with President Rousse and the LSU administration as the System advances its vision for higher education across the state. The university remains deeply committed to expanding educational opportunity, elevating regional prosperity, and contributing meaningfully to the collective strength of the LSU family.

Bolton Academy recognized several of its educators during its recent Outstanding Educator Recognition Program, celebrating excellence in teaching and student support.

Kelly Michot was named Bolton Academy’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Gennifer Smith was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year. In addition, Amanda Dunbar was honored as the Rapides Parish Elementary Counselor of the Year.

School officials highlighted the dedication and hard work of the honorees, noting their continued commitment to students and the Bolton Academy community. The recognition program served as an opportunity to acknowledge the impact these educators have on students and the school as a whole.

Members of the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, along with CKI members, recently volunteered their time ringing bells for the Salvation Army at Kroger in Alexandria as part of the organization’s holiday fundraising efforts.

Participants helped raise funds for the Salvation Army while spreading Christmas cheer to shoppers throughout the day. Those participating included, from left to right, Braylen Byrd, Gracymay Byrd, Mary Byrd, president of the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria, Ayla Zeibo and Jacey Kirklin. Patsy Shaw also participated but was not pictured.

Club members noted that the event was an enjoyable way to give back to the community during the holiday season while supporting the Salvation Army’s mission.

It is with profound sadness yet a sense of gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Debra Gail Thomas. Born on June 28, 1955, in Pineville, Louisiana, Debra was a ray of light in the lives of many, a woman whose spirit shone brightly and touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her vibrant personality was as radiant as the earthtone colors she loved, reflecting her grounded nature and love for life.

Debra’s life was a testament to selfless service to others. In her career as a Registered Nurse, she extended her kind heart and healing hands to countless patients, embodying the essence of compassionate care. Debra’s passion for helping others didn’t end with her professional life; she was also an active member of the City Choir, touching people with the harmonious blend of her melodious voice. Away from work, Debra had a love for the simple pleasures of life. She found joy in playing Bingo, the mental challenge of Sudoku and word puzzles, and the friendly competition of a good game of Scrabble. She also had a fondness for shopping, always finding the perfect item to brighten up her day or to gift her loved ones.

As we mourn the loss of Debra, we celebrate the wonderful person she was and the remarkable life she led. We invite you to join us in honoring her life. A public viewing and visitation will be held at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th & Day Streets, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71301, on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00 am. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the same venue. Her final resting place will be at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 4000 Monroe Highway, Ball, Louisiana, 71405.

We encourage those who were touched by Debra to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page. Let us remember Debra not with tears, but with the joy and warmth she brought into our lives, the lessons she taught us, and the love she shared with us all.

Jaymie Dell Edwards, age 61, entered eternal rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Sabine Parish.
Services were held with interment following in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

He was preceded in death by parents, Milton Carlaine Edwards, and Eva Jewel Weatherford Edwards, grandparents, George Lee Edwards and Anna Edwards.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Jennifer Edwards, Janet Edwards, and Jeremy Edwards; siblings, Larry Edwards (Erica), Darrell L. Edwards (Vicky), Susan Edwards (Andy), and Mark Edwards (Marilyn); numerous grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Jaymie was a loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He worked for many years as a Meat Market Manager for different stores before becoming a Structural Welder. Jaymie enjoyed the outdoors spending time hunting, fishing, and being with his animals. Jaymie always had a joke or funny comment ready to go whenever you would see him. He will forever be missed by those that loved and knew him.

Pallbearers honored to serve were Brent Edwards, Billy Meher, Darrell Edwards, Barry Edwards, Patrick Edwards, and Bradley Edwards.

Phonetic: /kak-oh-dee-moh-may-nee-a/
Part of Speech: noun

Definition

a condition marked by the delusion of being possessed by evil spirits

The pathological belief that one is inhabited, or possessed, by an evil spirit or entity