Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies arrested a Hineston-area man Wednesday evening following a lengthy high-speed pursuit that ended with a vehicle fire and foot chase.

According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 5:45 p.m. to a reported disturbance on Harper Road in the Hineston area. Upon arrival, the suspect, later identified as Robert Dale West, 35, fled the scene in a brown Chevrolet Suburban, prompting a pursuit.

During the chase, deputies reported speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour at times. The pursuit came to an end in the Sieper community after spike strips were deployed by the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office with assistance from Louisiana State Police. After striking the spike strips, the vehicle caught fire.

West then fled the scene on foot but was taken into custody following a brief foot pursuit. Authorities reported the arrest was made without further incident.

West was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm and was transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center. He is expected to be booked on multiple charges, including aggravated flight from an officer, possession of a stolen firearm, and an active extraditable warrant out of Texas.

No injuries were reported during the incident. Officials stated the investigation is ongoing and that additional information, including a complete list of charges and a suspect mugshot, will be released as it becomes available.

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By JIM BUTLER 

Judge John Hodge on Monday ordered a deadline of June 6 for damage claims in the Diocese of Alexandria bankruptcy case. 

The Diocese had earlier requested a May 1 cutoff but its attorneys and those of potential abuse victims or their survivors petitioned for the later date after revising the victim claim form and process. 

The Diocese filed for bankruptcy protection on October 31 as notice of potential claims of clergy abuse as far back as 1970 increased. 

Staring at the potential legal costs and claim awards, the Diocese sought Chapter 11 relief. 

Its latest monthly operating report to the court reflects about $201,000 in combined legal fees in December alone. 

The Diocese began the month with $2.8 million cash balance. Its latest monthly operating report to the court showed December receipts of $776,000 and disbursements of $670,000. 

Post-filing debt is reported as $7.9 million, $1.5 million of that secured. Total liabilities are listed at $9.46 million.

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Louisiana Christian University welcomes Dr. Marcia Hardy as its new dean of the Young School of Business and Martin MBA program.

Hardy is the dean of the Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business.

She earned a Ph.D. from the University of California-Los Angeles, specializing in management from the Anderson School of Management and research and evaluation from the Graduate School of Education. Her original research explored the success factors of entrepreneurship. She also received Ph.D. certification from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, studying organizational leadership, strategic management and planning.

She holds an M.S. from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and a B.S. from Loyola University in New Orleans. Hardy is certified in Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategies Program from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Additional national certifications of hers are extensive, including in Quality Matters, Google Analytics, and negotiation and leadership from Harvard Law School.

Hardy has decades of experience in academia, most recently at Northwestern State University as a tenured full professor in business administration and management.

Hardy said her first priority at LCU will be to listen, learn and build trust.

“I want to understand the strengths of our graduate and undergraduate programs, hear from faculty, staff, students, alumni, and industry partners, and gain a clear understanding of where we are thriving and where we have opportunities to grow,” Hardy said.

“Looking forward, I see incredible opportunities to strengthen enrollment, enhance experiential learning, and deepen partnerships with the business community. I am excited about expanding internships, applied projects, and mentoring prospects, and will focus on ensuring our undergraduate business majors succeed and our master’s in business administration (MBA) and master’s in strategic leadership (MSL) graduates continue to add value for working professionals.”

She said she also sees an opportunity to more clearly voice the distinct values of a Christian business education-graduates who are not only skilled and competent, but ethical, insightful, and purpose-driven leaders.

She said she chose to come to LCU because the mission of the university aligns deeply with both her professional calling and her personal values.

“I believe higher education, especially business education, should develop the whole person: intellectually, ethically, and spiritually,” Hardy said. “This institution is committed not only to academic excellence, but to shaping future leaders of character who understand business as a career and a means of service.”

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson said Louisiana Christian University is entering a new chapter in graduate studies, one that redefines workforce development as the formation of people, not simply the placement of graduates.

“Dr. Marcia Hardy’s appointment reflects that vision,” Johnson said. “She brings an exceptional blend of academic scholarship and real-world industry experience. Her work in entrepreneurship, organizational leadership and emerging technologies positions LCU to expand graduate education for Louisiana’s workforce.”

Hardy’s publications include a book EDI: A Guide To Electronic Data Interchange and Electronic Commerce Applications, 1995, and dozens of journal articles. Her professional presentations have been at local, state and national venues. She holds awards for teaching, service to cities and businesses, and has a legislative award from the United States Department of Defense for leadership and dedication, presented by the Joint Electronic Commerce Program Office.

Dr. Hardy currently serves as the international president-elect for the Phi Beta Delta Honor Society for International Scholars with over 200 established chapters. 

In addition to her academic background, Hardy has also been an active member of the community.

“My experience as a business owner and community leader allows me to bring practical, real-world perspectives to business education,” she said. “I know what employers are seeking, how organizations operate, and how theory translates into practice. This combination enables me to bridge academia and industry, ensuring our programs remain relevant, credible, and impactful.

“Together, these experiences allow me to lead with understanding, clarity and purpose, honoring Louisiana Christian University’s mission while preparing students to lead faithfully, courageously, and successfully in the business world.”

She has been co-founder and president of McLure, Moynihan Inc. of California and CEO/owner of The Nest Wellness Spa & Wellness Center. She served recently as chairman of the United Way of Central Louisiana. She is also active at Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria.

“Without question, Dr. Hardy is among the best new faculty to join LCU,” said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry Robertson. “Her business acumen and scholarship place the Young School and its Martin MBA program in the forefront of the mission-devoted business schools in America. I could not be more pleased to welcome her to the faculty and for her strong commitment to our students and their academic advancement in business, economics, management, and marketing.”

Note: Dr. Marcia Hardy was a former professor in the College of Business and Technology and former faculty Senate President at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana.

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The England Authority Board of Commissioners held its first meeting of the year on Jan. 22 with a new slate of officers providing board oversight.

Working with England Airpark and Alexandria International Airport Executive Director Ralph Hennessy and his staff to carry out the mission of the England Authority are these commissioners, followed by their respective office (if applicable) and appointing authority:

Oday Lavergne, Chair – City of Alexandria, La.
Jamar Gailes, Vice Chair – City of Alexandria, La.
Steven Mansour, Secretary/Treasurer – Rapides Parish Police Jury
Trey Crump – City of Pineville, La.
Joshua Joy Dara, Sr., – Rapides Parish Police Jury
Myron K. Lawson, Jr. – Rapides Parish Police Jury
Joe McPherson – Rapides Parish incorporated municipalities of Woodworth, Glenmora, Ball, Cheneyville, Lecompte, McNary, Boyce, and Forest Hill, La.
Patrick O’Quin – City of Alexandria, La.
Charles S. Weems III – Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce
Zeb Winstead – Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce

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Residents across Rapides Parish should prepare for several more days of cold temperatures and widespread frost, with overnight lows dipping well below freezing through the weekend before a gradual warmup early next week.

Wednesday will start cold with widespread frost during the morning hours, followed by sunny conditions throughout the day. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the lower 50s, with light winds becoming northwest around 5 mph later in the day. Frost will return Wednesday night as lows once again fall into the mid-20s under partly cloudy skies.

Cold mornings will continue Thursday, with widespread frost expected early. Skies will be mostly sunny, and highs will climb slightly into the mid-50s. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with lows in the mid-30s, as south winds shift northwest after midnight.

Friday will bring cooler daytime temperatures, with mostly cloudy skies in the morning giving way to partial sunshine by afternoon. Highs will reach the mid-40s. Friday night will be significantly colder, with partly cloudy skies and lows dropping to around 20 degrees.

Saturday and Saturday night are expected to remain clear and cold, with daytime highs only reaching the mid-30s and overnight lows near 20. Clear skies will continue into Sunday, with highs in the mid-40s and lows in the mid-20s.

A gradual warming trend is expected to begin Monday, with sunny skies and highs returning to the mid-50s. Partly cloudy conditions will persist Monday night into Tuesday, with overnight lows around 30 and daytime highs climbing into the upper 50s.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect pets, plants, pipes, and vulnerable populations during the prolonged cold stretch.

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Northwood High School (PK-12) will be open on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The facilities team worked diligently to ensure all buildings are safe and ready to welcome students and staff back to campus. The school’s admin appreciate the patience and understanding of its Northwood families.

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Skip the crowded restaurants and complicated plans for this Valentine’s Day, and enjoy a thoughtfully prepared evening that’s both special and serves a purpose. The Valentine’s Banquet takes place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 6:30–9:30PM in the Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church of Alexandria.

This one-night event offers everything you want on a Valentine’s date: live entertainment, an elegant five-course meal, and a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. All while supporting something deeply meaningful. Proceeds benefit the FUMCA Youth Summer Mission Trip, so while FUMCA youth serve you at the banquet, you help them serve others beyond our community! By attending the Valentine’s Banquet, you’re not just planning an easy and memorable date, you’re helping young people share their faith in tangible ways.

Five-Course Dinner Menu

• Portobello Fingers with Remoulade Sauce
• Sensation Salad
• Tomato Basil Soup
• Pecan-Smoked Pork Tenderloin Medallions with Balsamic Cherry Glaze
• Florentine Potatoes
• Sautéed Green Beans Almondine
• Banana Foster over Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Plus Iced Tea and Ice Water

Cost: $50 per person
Registration closes: February 8 at 9:30PM

What is the FUMCA Youth Mission?

In the first week of June, FUMCA Youth will embark on our first annual week-long mission trip. This year’s theme and location? “Serving the Smokies!” FUMCA’s 20-person team of 7th-12th graders (and chaperones) will act as the hands and feet of Christ to our neighbors in the Sevier County area of Tennessee. Partnering with LIVE-IT Ministries, we will serve to repair family homes, create mobility aids for disabled community members, minister to folks experiencing homelessness, and grow together as a group while reaching outward to others.

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Louisiana snow day essentials: space heater, extension cord, boiling water, generator, candles, and a phone at 3% battery. While some outside the South might chuckle at a Louisiana winter, we know how to stay prepared, make the most of any situation, and get through it together.

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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will host its upcoming state conference at the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria, with several events open to the public throughout the weekend.

As part of the conference, the fraternity is inviting community members to attend a Public Forum on Gun Violence on Friday, January 30, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The forum will focus on community awareness, dialogue, and solutions related to gun violence.

Later that evening, the fraternity will host its College Brothers Step Show and Stroll Off on Friday, January 30, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., featuring performances from college members celebrating tradition, culture, and unity.

The weekend will conclude with the Miss Old Gold & Black Scholarship Pageant on Saturday, January 31, at 7 p.m. The pageant highlights scholarship, leadership, and community involvement while supporting educational opportunities.

All events will take place at the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. encourages the public to attend and take part in the weekend’s activities as the organization gathers for its state conference.

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LSU Alexandria baseball pitcher Carter Fabre is the Red River Athletic Conference Pitcher of the Week after winning his first start with six innings of shutout work.

Fabre tossed six innings of shutout baseball in the Generals’ season opening win over Wiley College. He allowed just one hit and struck out five. Fabre, a senior right-hander from Houma, forced seven ground outs and earned his first win of the season.

The Generals (3-1) host John Melvin University this weekend for the second straight weekend. LSUA split a Friday doubleheader last weekend, bouncing back from a 4-0 loss to win 7-3.

The season opened with a 9-0, 4-3 sweep of Wiley on Thursday.

LSUA will play a single game Friday against John Melvin and a twinbill Saturday. No start times are shown on the Generals’ website.

LOUISIANA CHRISTIAN:  The Wildcats rallied from three runs down in the final inning of Game 1 to win, spurring the offense to a doubleheader sweep of the 19^th-ranked Mid-America Christian Evangels, 5-4 and 13-5, to open the 2026 season last Thursday at Billy Allgood Field.

In the nightcap, Chris Kelley went three-for-four with three RBI and two runs scored, both of those coming off his first two home runs of 2026.

His RBI double started the three-run ninth in the opener, which included a game-tying, two-out, two-strike, two-run single by Jake Messina and a game-winning bases-loaded walk drawn by Sterling Sims.

Coach Mike Byrnes’ club (2-0) will host Wiley this Friday in an 11 a.m. doubleheader.

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Once again I’m going off the rails and taking a break from talking fishing. Those of you that have read my articles from the very beginning know about my history as a kid. Growing up on the streets of Rosenburg, Texas, and Houston, made me a little tougher than most kids my age. I knew first-hand by the age of 8 what it was like to be footloose and fancy free running the streets ‘til all hours of the night, with zero guidance. 

While my biological mother was more concerned with her modeling career and surviving the beatings she took at the hands of my stepdad, I was just trying to survive. I was the one sneaking into houses looking for a quick meal. 

The one thing I always wondered — where was my real dad during all of this and why did I never get to meet him? Why was he never involved in my life?

Was this his choice to avoid contact with me or was there some kind of a mutual agreement between my mother and him that he was to never reach out to me for any reason?

These are questions that I’ll never get the answers to until the day I’m reunited with my dad and the loved ones who have crossed over to the other side. But as a father myself, I cannot imagine having a child in this world and not knowing who or where they were. 

I’ve always heard that my athletic abilities came from my dad. I’ve heard stories from my older brother, Mike (we share the same mom and dad), on the kind of dad he was to him and how he supported him and his athletic career. 

But the same questions continue to go through my head today, even at the age of 64. How was it that we never met? Why didn’t he reach out to me? 

Every kid wants that relationship with their dad. A dad plays an important role in the development of a young boy growing into a man. He also provides a sense of security to all his children that no matter what, dad always has their back.  

He provides advice and guidance for life’s troubled journey and teaches how to navigate those trials and tribulations. He’s the man who jerks a knot in your tail when you need correcting or get out of line. He’s the rock you look up to and hope to make proud one day. He’s the man you only hope you can be one day. 

But for me, that connection was never made. The years went by with zero contact from the man that I only heard about from relatives. From what I’ve been able to learn over the years, he had a good side and a bad side. 

I’ve been told that he enjoyed his Friday and Saturday nights at local taverns, but he also had wandering eyes for the ladies and traded one for another frequently. Guess this is why he and my mother divorced while she was pregnant with me. All total, he was married seven times (the legal limit in Texas) and once to the same lady, twice. 

So, maybe those that knew him thought it was in my best interest NOT to have a relationship with him; that nothing good would come out of us having that father-son bond that a boy wants with his dad. 

But looking back, he missed out on so much of my life’s great experiences. Things that a dad is supposed to be there for like a high school state championship, graduation, signing an athletic scholarship, getting married, being drafted by a Major League Baseball team and so much more! He missed out on so many of my life’s ups and downs — and three great grandkids. 

Growing up, I had the best childhood a young boy could ever ask for while being raised by my aunt and uncle in an awesome small town in East Texas. My uncle, who I called Dad after being adopted, was a great provider and taught me about responsibility and hard work while growing up on a ranch. He assumed the role of a loving father as best he could, but it’s just not the same.

There’s something about having a relationship with the man you share the same DNA with as it completes the internal connection — the connection that only a father can have with his children. 

So, I know the day will come when I’ll get all my questions answered. I’ll finally get to meet the father I never met.  But in the meantime, I’ll do my best to be the best father I can be to all three of my children.  

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January 28, 1986, stands as one of the darkest days in the history of space exploration. Just 73 seconds after liftoff, the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean, killing all seven crew members and shocking viewers around the world.

The mission had drawn unprecedented public attention due to the presence of Christa McAuliffe, a New Hampshire schoolteacher selected to become the first civilian educator in space. Millions of students watched the launch live in classrooms, making the tragedy especially traumatic for a generation of Americans.

Investigations later determined that the disaster was caused by the failure of O-ring seals in one of the shuttle’s solid rocket boosters. Cold temperatures on the morning of the launch compromised the seals, allowing hot gases to escape and ultimately leading to structural failure. Evidence revealed that engineers had raised concerns about the risks, but those warnings were not acted upon.

In the aftermath, NASA grounded the shuttle fleet and launched an extensive review of its procedures, management culture, and safety protocols. The Rogers Commission’s findings led to significant changes within the agency, emphasizing the importance of engineering judgment and transparency in decision-making.

The Challenger disaster reshaped public perception of space travel, underscoring the inherent risks of exploration. Memorials, scholarships, and educational programs were established in honor of the crew, ensuring their legacy would inspire future generations.

January 28 serves as a solemn reminder that progress often comes at great cost. The lessons learned from Challenger continue to influence aerospace safety and remind the nation of the human lives behind scientific ambition.

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Sheriff’s detectives are continuing their search for information related to the disappearance of James Edward Jackson, who has now been missing for more than a year.

Jackson was officially reported missing on February 11, 2025, when patrol deputies took an initial report. Investigators later determined that Jackson was last seen in the Tioga area around November 1, 2024, and has not been seen or heard from since.

James Edward Jackson is described as a white male, 43 years old, standing approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a slim build and a full beard.

Despite ongoing investigative efforts, Jackson’s whereabouts remain unknown. Detectives say the passage of time has elevated the case to a cold investigation, though authorities continue to actively pursue new leads and encourage the public to come forward with any information.

Anyone with information regarding the location or circumstances surrounding the disappearance of James Edward Jackson is urged to contact Detective Matt Dauzat with the Criminal Investigations Division at the Tioga Substation at 318-641-6005, or the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office Main Office at 318-473-6700.

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Here’s my latest Q & A

About Ida

Beginnings are tricky, but here we are—fresh page, blinking cursor, and a head full of questions. I’m Ida B. Torn, a lifelong Southerner from Kenner, Louisiana, who’s spent years working in newsrooms, design studios, and public service. I’ve seen my share of life’s chaos and comedy—and learned that sometimes, folks just need straight answers and a little laughter along the way.

Paid Content

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A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Robert Ellis Antoon at 11:00 am on Friday, January 30, 2026, at St. Rita Catholic Church, with The Very Rev. Craig Scott, VG officiating and concelebrated by Rev. Anthony Dharmaraj and Rev. Paul LaPalme. Interment will follow at Greenwood Memorial Park under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 am until 10:30 am on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the church, followed by a recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 am.

Robert Ellis Antoon, 79, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, in Alexandria, LA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Eunice Antoon.

Robert was born on March 29, 1946, in Alexandria, Louisiana. After graduating from Menard Memorial High School in 1964, he moved to Baton Rouge, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Biology from Louisiana State University. He later relocated to Houston and received his Doctor of Optometry in 1973. That same year, Robert opened Antoon Eye Center, where he faithfully served his community for 52 years. A lifelong member of the American Optometric Association and an active member of the Optometric Association for over five decades, he was deeply beloved by his patients for his compassion, generosity, and genuine care for others.

In addition to his private practice, Robert proudly served the 23rd Medical Group and the United States Air Force by providing the highest quality of medical care while working in the Optometry Clinic. He also served the England Air Force Base catchment area, where he earned accolades from both patients and hospital staff for his professionalism, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Robert was passionate about social justice, humanitarianism, and equality—values he carried into every aspect of his life and work. Affectionately known as “Magic” for his remarkable good fortune in sports, the nickname endured and was lovingly adopted by his grandchildren. He was known for his dry wit and playful humor, always eager to make others laugh. Above all, Robert was a devoted and loving husband to Terry Cortello, with whom he shared 46 years of marriage, father to Nicholas and Elizabeth, and grandfather to Adam, Patrick and Kate.

Robert’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his care, compassion, and integrity, leaving an enduring imprint on his family, his profession, and the community he served so faithfully.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Terry Antoon; his son, Nicholas Antoon; his daughter, Elizabeth Martin (Chris); his grandchildren, Adam Martin, Patrick Martin, and Katherine Martin; his brother, Thomas Antoon (Martha), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Gary Lahood, Trey Antoon, Chris Antoon, Robert Dalrymple, Rob Antoon, and Chris Martin.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Thomas Antoon, Ellis Saybe, Greg Ellington, Dr. Greg Gormanous, Glenn Cortello, Frank Cortello, Roy Martin, Chris Arny, Dr. Jaime Borrero, Joe Dalrymple, Scott Brame, Dr. Sam Bouz, and Dr. Bill Risinger.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, P.O. Box 230969, Houston, TX 77223.

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Linda Sue Gaspard, dedicated nurse, and cherished member of our community. Linda was born on April 2, 1947, and she left us on Saturday, January 24, 2026. She was 78 years old.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 30, 2025 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where a celebration of Linda’s life will take place. Friends and family are invited to gather from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. We encourage all who knew and loved Linda to join us in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the joy she brought into our lives. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Linda was a devoted registered nurse at Pinecrest, tirelessly caring for her patients with the compassion and kindness that defined her. She spent over 45 years as a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where she not only attended services but also actively participated as the Choir Director of the 10 o’clock choir, sharing her love of music with the congregation. As a proud member of the Catholic Daughters, Linda devoted her time and energy to the service of others, exemplifying her strong faith.

Beyond her work and community service, Linda had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She loved to travel the world, embracing new cultures and experiences, and she had a special affection for animals, who seemed to sense her big heart from afar. Linda’s spirit of generosity will be remembered through her memorial contributions to the food pantry at Sacred Heart, a reflection of her commitment to help those in need.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Harrison and Agnes Baudin Gaspard.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sister, Mary Jo DeKeyzer, and numerous other family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the food pantry at Sacred Heart.

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By JIM BUTLER

Notes from audit reports released this month:

Alexandria – Total net position $355.67 million, with about $253 million of that in capital assets; Year over year change +$2.37 million. Unrestricted, $44.1 million, all in Utility; General Fund balance about 55 percent of annual expenditures. Decrease of about $6.7 million prior year; Total city revenues $199.5 million, total expenses $197 million; Allowance for uncollectible debt, $1.57 million.

Ball – Total net position $10.26 million, almost entirely in capital assets used to provide services;

$2.5 million used to recognize pension liability long-term, officials note sufficient assets to meet ongoing obligations; Total revenues, $9.2 million, expenses, $5.1 million; Charges for services, $2.2 million, taxes, $2.4 million; Expenses, general government, $821,000; police, $941,000; fire, $467,000; public works/streets, $908,000; sanitation, $668,000; sewer, $1.8 million. 

Glenmora – Total net position $3 million, about 80 percent in capital assets, year over year +$250,000; General Fund revenue before transfers, $1.63 million, expenses $1.55 million; Business Fund revenue $926,000, expenses $708,000; Charges for services, $366,000;  sales taxes, $673,000; grants, $378,000; Expenses, general government, $333,000; police, $329,000; fire, $168,000; streets/public facilities, $613,000; sanitation, $106,000. 

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Blowing off some steam on a frigid winter afternoon:

“Can you imagine,” a friend asked, “if there was a professional portal for the best educators? Absolutely illogical if one looks at this objectively and what’s the true mission of a university.”

We all know how crazy it is that college athletes now – not just major college coaches – make millions more than professors and instructors at the same schools. This is because of a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that allows NCAA athletes – mostly at the top-tier levels —  to profit from their name, image and likeness (NIL). They can get endorsement deals, sponsorships, and direct compensation, mostly in football and basketball and some high-profile individual sports.

It changed big-time college sports into a minor league sports conglomerate fueled by wealthy donors, massive TV deals, and brand partnerships. 

 And, yes, this is illogical if one considers the mission of a university.

LSU’s mission statement, for example: “To cultivate transformational leaders and generate impactful research that enhances individual, organizational, and societal well-being through excellence in teaching, scholarship, and community engagement.”

Maybe we should edit or translate that to: “To do whatever it takes financially to hire successful coaches and talented portal athletes who project to becoming All-Americans and social media stars, thereby generating more revenue and a broader fan base and interest in the university.”

For some perspective as to how we got here, recall the comment legendary Alabama football coach Bear Bryant said many years ago when asked by a school professor why Coach Bryant made so much more ($200,000/year) than he did.

“If you got 50,000 people to watch your math class,” Bryant reportedly said, “you’d get $200,000, too.” 

On other things …

“The only thing I can talk about is the cold,” wrote William Saroyan in his popular short story, “A Cold Day,” “because it is the only thing going on today.”

That’s the way I feel working on this column at a time when most of our state and the Southern region is enduring a severe winter attack, with some quipping it might’ve been launched this way by Greenland.

“If you can’t write a decent short story because of the cold,” wrote Saroyan, “write something else. Write anything. Write a long letter to somebody.”

My hands and feet are cold and my breath is cold, so maybe I can write about things that raise the temp.

Sunday’s AFC Championship game was a low-scoring, miserable game in the driving Denver snow. That was not a test of talent as much as it was a test of grit and survival. There were four missed field goals in the game, two by each team. Former Saints kicker Wil Lutz missed two for Denver, with one, from 45 yards, being blocked. Andy Borregales missed two for the New England Patriots from 46 and 63 yards.

Watching that snow-slog made an already cold day seem colder.

Louisiana Super connections …

LSU will have five former players in the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in presumably balmy Santa Clara, California.

Four will play for the New England Patriots: offensive tackle Will Campbell, wide receiver Kayshon Boutte and pass rushers K’Lavon Chaisson and Bradyn Swinson. One will play for the Seattle Seahawks: guard Anthony Bradford.

Bradford, 24, is a 6-4, 355-pound native of Muskegon, Michigan who played at LSU from 2019-22. He helped the Tigers rebound from a down season in 2021 with a 10-win season in ’22 and a berth in the Southeastern Conference championship game.

The 6-6, 319-pound Campbell, the fourth overall NFL Draft pick from Monroe/Neville High School in last year’s NFL Draft, has lived up to his billing in his rookie NFL season. He is an offensive line legacy, being the son of Brian “Bull” Campbell, who played on the offensive line for East Texas State, which now goes by East Texas A&M University, still located in Commerce.

Boutte, from New Iberia, didn’t get drafted until the sixth round of the 2023 draft. He’s had a solid season for the Patriots with 33 catches for 551 yards and 6 touchdowns. He may be best remembered at LSU for setting an SEC record for receiving yards in a game, with 308 yards on 14 catches, with three touchdowns, against Ole Miss in 2020.

Swinson, 21, is a 6-4, 255-pound native of Douglasville, Georgia, who was a 5^th-round pick in last year’s draft, and the 6-3, 255-pound Chaisson is a Houston native who was the 20^th overall first-round pick (Jacksonville) in the 2020 draft. He wore the prestigious No. 18 jersey at LSU, being recognized as a special team leader. Chaisson rose to legendary status as a senior at Houston’s North Grove High School, when he was named the defensive MVP of Texas’ Class 6A state championship game against Austin’s Westlake High School. He had 2 sacks, 4 tackles behind the line, a blocked kick, a forced fumble and a game-saving tackle on 4^th-and-goal in a 21-14 victory.

Former Louisiana Tech star Milton Williams is hoping to extend his Super Bowl LIX luck from last year, when the 6-3, 290-pound defensive tackle from Crowley, Texas played for the winning Philadelphia Eagles at the Superdome. Williams, who had two sacks and forced and recovered a fumble in the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory over the Chiefs, signed with New England as a free agent after last season.

‘As well’  …

Finally, since weather has been on the minds of so many of late, brace yourself — in any town in the state or country — for hearing many, many times on the TV weather report two words from the meteorologists or weather readers – “as well.”

It’s as if they are instructed to say “as well” – at a bare minimum — a half-dozen times in each broadcast. Or be fired.

Personally, I much prefer when they report “all is well” with the weather.

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Louisiana Christian University is joining the Louisiana Baptists on a statewide Together Tour in 2026 to promote commitment and cooperation among churches and other Southern Baptist organizations across Louisiana.

“My goal in these meetings is to hear from all concerned,” said Executive Director for Louisiana Baptists Steve Horn. “What can we do better? What are we committed to doing moving forward? What should we be doing that we are not doing? What are we doing that Louisiana Baptists want us to stop doing? Where have we lost trust in this cooperative endeavor to do more together than we can do by ourselves?”

Horn said that this is not a plea to give more, but rather an opportunity to listen to all member organizations.

“We are listening to what you want to do cooperatively as we think about the next 100 years. At the same time, hear me say, ‘we cannot continue to do what we are doing without addressing the situation.’ “

In 2008, Louisiana Baptists gave $22,650,020 through the Cooperative Program. In 2024, Louisiana Baptists gave just over $17 million.

“We may not be at a crisis, but we are certainly at a crossroads,” Horn said.

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson said he will travel with Horn to stand with the Louisiana Baptist Convention and support the shared mission God has given Louisiana Baptists. An important part of that mission is Christian higher education.

Louisiana Christian University is the only Southern Baptist university in the state.

“This tour is about unity, trust, and advancing the Kingdom together,” Johnson said. “Louisiana Christian University exists because churches believed Christian higher education matters. I want our leaders to hear my gratitude for their prayers and support and to know that we are committed to faithful stewardship and a strong future.”

This past year, LCU provided $7.5 million in funded and unfunded scholarships to support young people who are in real need. Louisiana Baptists are helping those students, and the Cooperative Program is the engine that makes that possible. 

“As we continue to travel across the state, my hope is that more pastors and leaders will come, listen and also speak into our work, sharing ways we can improve and strengthen what we do to better advance the Kingdom of God, together,” Johnson said.

There will be approximately 40 listening sessions around the state in 2026.

Upcoming dates for the Together Tour include:

January 29
6 p.m.
Mt. Olive Association
First Baptist Oakdale
117 S 12th St., Oakdale

February 2
9 a.m.
Beauregard Association
First Baptist DeRidder
2030 Highway 171, DeRidder

February 3
11 a.m.
Bayou Macon/Madison Associations
FBC Oak Grove
608 E Main St., Oak Grove

February 5
11:30 a.m.
North Central Association
FBC Winnfield
201 East Court St., Winnfield

February 12
11 a.m.
Northwest Association
Woodridge Baptist Church
850 E Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport

February 12
6:30 p.m.
Bienville/Webster Claiborne Association
North Acres Baptist Church
1852 Lewisville Road, Minden

February 19
9:30 a.m.
Northeast Association
Association Office
7103 DeSiard St., Monroe

February 19
6:30 p.m.
Delta Association
First Baptist Vidalia
100 N Hickory St., Vidalia

February 26
10 a.m.
Rural Church Pastors Meeting
TBD

March 02
Noon
Gulf Coast Association
Forest Restaurant, Franklin
1909 Main St., Franklin

March 2
6 p.m.
Evangeline Association
Youngsville Community Church
4129 Verot School Road, Youngsville

March 7
8 a.m.
NOLA – Spanish
Iglesia Christiana Filadelfia
12131 Florida Blvd suite C and D, Baton Rouge

March 9
6:30 p.m.
Deer Creek Association

March 17
6:30 p.m.
LaSalle Association

March 19
10 a.m.
Baton Rouge (BAGBR)

April 21
6:30 p.m.
Bayou Association
Association Office
4494 West Main St., Gray

May 20
10:30 a.m.
NOLA Association

May 21
Noon
CenLA Association

For the latest information about dates and locations, visit the Together Tour website.

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