Enforcement agents with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) continued providing critical assistance to communities across the state as a winter storm impacted much of Louisiana, particularly northern parishes.

Since the onset of the storm, LDWF agents have completed 32 public assistance responses. Those efforts included helping motorists stranded in ditches and roadways, clearing debris from travel routes, assisting local law enforcement agencies, and responding to incidents involving five individuals stranded on the water.

Agents also played a key role in supporting essential services by providing transportation for essential workers. A total of 83 essential workers were transported to and from their shifts at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Home in Monroe and the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Bossier City, ensuring continued care for residents during hazardous conditions.

LDWF Enforcement Division leadership praised agents for maintaining professionalism and effectiveness while operating under challenging weather conditions, noting their continued commitment to public safety despite significant obstacles.

LDWF officials said enforcement agents will remain available to assist as weather conditions evolve, emphasizing their ongoing role in emergency response and public safety operations statewide.

Services for Michael Unthank will be at 12:45, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Richey Cemetery, Center Point, LA, under the direction of Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria, LA. Visitation will be at Magnolia Funeral Home from 9AM until 12PM.

Michael Unthank, 54, of Deville, LA, passed away January 19, 2026, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melinda Unthank; son, Benjamin Unthank and his mother, Barbara Unthank.

Those left t cherish his memory his son, Zachary Unthank; father and mother in law Jim Johnson and wife Laura; nephew Elden Dodge; niece, Lora Dodge and his brothers, Jesse Unthank, Pete Pope and Frank Byrd.

Mr. Michael DuWayne Roessler, a lifetime resident of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. A graduate of Bolton High School, he attended LSU-A and Louisiana College.

Memorial visitation for Michael will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 11:00-100 pm.

Michael was a hard worker. Beginning at age 5, he delivered newspapers in his neighborhood. From then on, he did odd jobs like cutting grass and other yard work. In high school, he worked in the lunchroom, assisted in the chemistry lab, ran the movie projector for teachers, and raised the flag every day. During summers he worked cutting grass and doing repairs at the three drive-inn theaters. During college, he hitchhiked from LSU-A and back most days to work at a fast-food restaurant between classes. After his marriage to Pamela, he worked 3 jobs, the US Forest Service, a department store, and a service station. He worked 7 days a week. Most of the time he had no vehicle and walked everywhere. He also worked extra time at the Forest Service so that he could attend various classes at Louisiana College. He kept this rigorous schedule for three years until Pamela finished school and gained employment.

On 6/3/2000, he retired from the US Forest Service after 38 years as a Physical Science Technician. While working for the Forest Service, Michael was involved in many research projects resulting in increased marketing of the South. The research was published in textbooks, including utilization of Hardwood Growing on Southern Pine Sites and Utilization of Southern Pine and Manufacturing Practices in the United States. His photographs were also used as covers on the magazines of Forest Products Journal and Southern Lumberman. During his forest service career, he received 6 certificates of merit, a certificate of achievement, and an excellence award from the US Department of Agriculture.

After 28 years of service as a Training NCO, Michael retired from the Army Reserves on 4/4/1995. He particularly enjoyed working with young recruits during their basic training. He earned the Meritorious Service Medal as well as the Army Commendation, Army Achievement, Army Reserve Components Achievement, National Defense Service and Armed Forces Reserve Medals. He also received the NCO Professional Development and Army Service Ribbons.

Being very involved in hunting and fishing, Michael belonged to the CENLA Bass Masters during the 1970’s and was District 3 VP of the Association of Louisiana Clubs. He was a previous member of the Bolton Avenue Lions Club, holding the office of Tail Twister, and he continued to support their program at the Crippled Children’s Camp. He was a life member of the Louisiana League for Crippled Children. He was also a member of the 40/8, having held offices of Medicine and Chef de Gar. He was also a lifetime member of AMVETS Post #7.

Besides fishing and hunting, Michael enjoyed snow skiing, riding four wheelers and traveling. He and his wife traveled through and or visited the 48 contiguous states. He hunted in Colorado and fished in Washington, Texas, Mexico and for many years from his camp at Toledo Bend.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, George LaVerne Roessler, Sr. and Virginia Jones Roessler; his wife of 52 years, Pamela; and his daughter, Christine.

He is survived by his brother, George Roessler, Jr. and sister, Margarette Anny Guynes (Harley).

The Rapides Parish School Board announced that the majority of its schools and offices will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 27 following assessments related to recent weather conditions.

District leaders reported that school administrators, custodial teams, maintenance staff, and bus operators spent Monday evaluating facilities and road conditions across the parish. The district has also remained in close communication with the National Weather Service, CLECO, and local officials.

Based on those assessments, all RPSB schools and offices will be open Tuesday with the exception of Northwood High School (PK–12). Northwood High School will remain closed due to continued power outages in the area and the presence of some impassable roads.

Because of extremely cold temperatures expected early Tuesday morning, all students across the district will be allowed an out-of-uniform dress day. Students are encouraged to dress warmly and comfortably.

District officials expressed appreciation for the efforts of school and operations teams whose work throughout the weather event helped make it possible for schools to reopen safely.

By JIM BUTLER

Frustration with GAEDA’s membership status has prompted plans to amend state law.

Notice has been published of intent to file such legislation in the session beginning March 9. It is not clear who will sponsor the measure.

What is clear is resolve by GAEDA commissioners, officials and supporters to change current rules.

Three of seven Authority seats are essentially vacant and have been for some time. That creates both quorum and voting issues.

Aggravations over the situation were apparent in remarks by commissioners and some in the audience at GAEDA’s monthly meeting last week.

Each City Council member has an appointment to the panel. The three whose spots are vacant have not nominated successors.

The notice of filing lists intent relative to membership, appointment and removal, and attendance at Authority meetings, as well as an open-ended “related matters”.

GAEDA was created by legislative act and city ordinance in 2003. The ordinance was amended in 2023, changing member terms from four years to at the will of the respective council members.

UPDATED: January 26, 2026 at 6am

All administrative offices of the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office will reopen Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Bossier Parish

• LA 154 in both directions from Houghton Rd. to Lakeview Circle (Lake Bistineau Bridge)
• LA 3 overpass over the KCS railroad tracks in both directions

Caddo Parish

• Greenwood Rest Area (located along I-20 east at mile marker 2)
• I-220 east ramp to I-49 north
• I-49 south ramp to I-220 east
• I-49 north from LA 526 to I-20
• I-49 south from I-20 to LA 3132
• LA 3132 west ramp to I-49 south

Rapides Parish

• LA 8; Richard Thompson Memorial Bridge (Boyce Bridge) Rapides & Grant Parishes

Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. 

Contact
District 08 Emergency Operation Center
(318) 561-5233

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Cell/Text: (318) 419-3076

eMail: BDC Tree Service
Website: BDC Tree Service

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LSUA’s Division of Strategic Communications received national recognition at the 46th Annual Telly Awards, earning four awards for video content produced to promote the university across television, digital, and social platforms. The honors mark a significant milestone for the team, which received its first national video recognition just one year ago.

LSUA earned three Silver Telly Awards in 2025, including recognition for “Are You Ready?” in the General Education category for locally aired television commercials promoting educational institutions. Filmed and directed by Multimedia Coordinator Nathan Parish and featuring LSUA student Kyrn Baker as the lead talent, the commercial highlighted the many ways an LSUA degree empowers students to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. The spot served as the cornerstone of LSUA’s Fall 2025 television marketing campaign, reinforcing the university’s focus on purpose-driven education and workforce readiness.

A second Silver Telly was awarded for “Let’s Get to Work,” recognized in the General Education category for social media video and also filmed and directed by Parish. The video featured interviews with three LSUA students who completed internships with local employers, sharing how their academic preparation and real-world experience left them confident and ready for life after graduation.

The Division also received a Silver Telly Award for “With Gratitude: LSUA Class of 2024,” honored in the Craft—Use of Vertical Format category, which recognizes impactful storytelling through vertical video. Directed by Mira Alvarado, with Parish serving as Director of Photography, the piece featured graduating seniors speaking directly to the camera, expressing gratitude to faculty and family who supported their academic journeys. The video was showcased during commencement ceremonies as a reflective tribute from the Class of 2024.

Rounding out the honors, LSUA earned a Bronze Telly Award for “Walk This Way,” an online commercial filmed and directed by Parish in the General Education category. The fast-paced montage highlighted LSUA’s hands-on, technology-driven learning environment, featuring visuals of 3D printing, drones, coding, laser cutting, and other innovative tools, preparing students for modern careers.

Reflecting on receiving the honors, LSUA Multimedia Coordinator Nathan Parish said, “Visual storytelling is about more than just capturing high-quality footage; it’s about translating the energy and ambition of our students into something people can feel. Winning these Telly Awards is an incredible honor, but the real reward is knowing that these stories, whether told through a traditional commercial or a vertical social clip, are resonating on a national stage and showing the world what LSUA is on the rise.”

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. This year’s competition drew more than 13,000 entries from all 50 states and six continents, representing work from leading advertising agencies, production companies, television networks, and educational institutions worldwide. This year’s theme, “Stories Take Shape,” highlighted how creators blend traditional storytelling with emerging formats to connect with audiences in new ways.

Adam Lord, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications, said the recognition affirms the team’s creative direction and purpose. “LSUA continues to earn the attention and respect of a national audience, and we are doing what I believe is competitive, meaningful work,” Lord said. “We’re not an agency, and we don’t have extensive resources, but we do have talented people doing good work telling the stories of excellence and success at LSUA. These awards are an indication that we’re doing the right things, the right way.”

The 2025 wins build on momentum from 2024, when LSUA received its first national Telly Award. Together, the honors reflect LSUA’s growing national visibility and the Division of Strategic Communications’ commitment to authentic storytelling that elevates the student experience and the university’s mission.

Written by Adam Lord
Photo credit – LSUA Strategic Communications

State and local leaders recently gathered in Pineville to tour and discuss the future of two long-neglected properties: the former Central Louisiana State Hospital grounds and the old Huey P. Long Hospital site. The visit marked an early step in a coordinated effort to address blight and explore redevelopment opportunities for the historic locations.

Rapides Parish Police Juror Randy Wiggins of District B joined State Representative Mike Johnson, Mayor Bishop, Senator Luneau, Representative Larvadain, and representatives from several state agencies for the on-site tour. Both properties have remained vacant for years and have deteriorated significantly, creating concerns related to safety, infrastructure, and unrealized economic potential.

Officials said the meeting was focused on moving beyond long-standing stagnation and beginning a practical assessment of what it would take to prepare the sites for future use. Discussions centered on infrastructure capabilities, including water, sewer, and power systems, as well as environmental challenges that must be addressed before redevelopment can move forward.

Leaders emphasized that addressing blight is a top priority, noting that the condition of the properties has become a concern for surrounding neighborhoods and the broader Pineville community. The goal, officials said, is to transform the sites from long-standing liabilities into assets that support growth, safety, and opportunity.

The meeting also highlighted a collaborative approach among local officials, state lawmakers, and Baton Rouge stakeholders aimed at cutting through bureaucratic obstacles that have historically delayed progress on large-scale redevelopment projects. Officials said coordination with state partners will be key to securing resources and attracting developers capable of revitalizing the properties.

While no redevelopment plans have been finalized, leaders described the tour as an important first step. Additional assessments and discussions are expected as officials work toward a long-term vision for the sites that supports a growing and vibrant Pineville.

Jan. 24

Tavaras Jokeenth Booze, 35, Alexandria – criminal trespass, possession of drug paraphernalia, disturbing the peace, resisting an officer, two counts contempt of court, $4,000 bail;

Shaterica Shannay Brown, 26, Jena – OWI third offense, operating a vehicle under suspension for certain prior offenses, obstruction of justice, improper lane usage, no child restraint system, $26,700 bail;

Taymarius Juane Jones, 41, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, five counts aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, parole violations, $55,000 bail;

Lance Gregory Searcy, 30, Alexandria – OWI third offense, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, headlamps required on motor vehicles, $5,600 bail;

Jordan Alexander Turner, 35, Oakdale – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail.

Jan. 23

DMarkius Sendell Duncan, 38, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl, parole violations, no bail data;

Darius Ramon Jackson, 40, Alexandria – theft, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Lionell Dewayne Johnson, 27, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal carry firearms with drugs, driving under suspension, tail lamps red light, $23,700 bail;

Jarvis Duane Jones, 37, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, theft, contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Markus Lavel Lair, 35, Pineville – possession of a firearm by convicted felon, obstruction of justice, parish probation, $50,000 bail;

Alexis Perez, 40, Metairie – theft, identity theft, $30,000 bail;

Quinn Anthony Sonnier, 34, Pineville – possession of a firearm by convicted felon, tail lamps red light, possession of marijuana, $600 bail;

Marvin Dewayne Stanley, 27, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, $5,500 bail.

Jan. 22

Landon Gage Ackel, 34, Alexandria – simple battery, carless operation of a vehicle, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, parole violations, use of CDS in presence of minor, unsafe vehicle, obstruction of driver’s view, safety belt violation, hit and run, aggravated second degree battery, $500 bail;

Christopher Michael Brown Jr., 29, Alexandria – improper turn, switched to license plate, two counts resisting an officer, failure to yield emergency vehicle, intentional littering, improper display of vehicle license plate, improper lane usage, failure to secure registration, safety belt violation, driving under suspension/revocation, two counts contempt of court, $5,400 bail;

Derrian Showandell, 37, Colfax – two counts contempt of court, $4,000 bail;

Danny Lee Chew Jr., 25, Alexandria – aggravated assault/domestic abuse, battery of a dating partner, no bail data;

Deddrick Markice Clark, 29, Pineville – possession of marijuana, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, concealed negligent carry handgun, intentional littering, illegal possession of stolen firearm, possession of firearm by convicted felon, safety belt violation, resisting an officer, contempt of court, probation violation, $3,600 bail;

Shareka M. Frank, 27, Forest Hill – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Peter Ray Heckard, 37, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, no headlight on bicycle, resisting an officer, $50,600 bail;

Kelcie Alexandra Hughes, 22, Alexandria – second degree battery, two counts theft, contempt of court, $56,000 bail;

Mayon Dameko Jones Sr, 48, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, concealed negligent carry, possession of marijuana, safety belt violation, $100 bail;

Felecia Renee Lee, 42, Alexandria – possession of CDS, resisting an officer, $2,000 bail;

Dontae Robert Madden, 20, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $102,000 bail;

Melvin Brian McDowell, 66, Pineville – four counts contempt of court, $55,000 bail;

James Benard Millner, 32, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, no bail data;

Darian Dewayne Napoleon, 42, Colfax – battery of a dating partner, $1,500 bail;

Royricus Joeletreaux Osteen, 28, Alexandria – possession of CDS, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, $1,500 bail;

Dajaron Armon Pearson, 28, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, $2,000 bail;

Brandon Deyontae Piper, 34, Alexandria – possession of CDS, legend drug possession, pedestrians on highways, resisting an officer, contempt of court, probation violation, $2,100 bail;

Daniel Park Reynolds, 62, Boyce – three counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, nine counts contempt of court, $613,500 bail;

Kanesha Deshun Lee Smith, 28, Alexandria – driving under suspension, improper lane usage, expired plate, OWI first offense, $1,300 bail;

Trivonta William Smoot, 24, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, resisting an officer, $500 bail;

April Nicole Wallace, 39, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail.

Jan. 21

Ja’onn Augustine, 22, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, misrepresentation during booking, resisting an officer, three counts contempt of court, $9,000 bail;

Alan Robert Augustus, 22, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, $31,000 bail;

Alana Michelle Bradley, 21, Alexandria – stalking, simple assault, $1,500 bail;

Denzel Calhoun, 34, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, improper lane usage, $2,100 bail;

Ivory Hebert Grant, 22, Alexandria – three counts battery on a correctional facility employee, three counts resisting an officer, simple escape, battery on officer, contempt of court, $146,500 bail;

Demarkis Dundre Guidry, 34, Alexandria – four counts theft, $16,000 bail;

Jeremy Joseph Hurts, 39, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, $16,500 bail;

Jamaria Dejuan Johnson, 25, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, contempt of court, failure to appear, probation violation, $2,500 bail;

Tyrone L. Lincoln, 50, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, driving under suspension, failure to secure registration, tail lamps red light, resisting an officer, nine counts contempt of court, $37,800 bail;

Marcus Deyon Parks, 41, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, simple burglary, no bail data;

Marcus Tyran Sanders, 42, Alexandria – simple battery on the infirm, possession of CDS, six counts contempt of court, $57,500 bail;

Tiffany Tineil Sells, 44, Alexandria – theft, $5,000 bail;

Leonard Michael Smith, 44, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, possession of firearm by convicted felon, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, three counts create distribute or possess with intent counterfeit CDS, $102,000 bail;

Terris Strong Jr., 20, Alexandria – second degree murder, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $100,000 bail;

Anthony Thurmon Jr., 40, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing with intent fentanyl, illegal carry firearm with drugs, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, two counts obstruction of justice, two counts contempt of court, $150,000 bail;

Jose Vierya-Romero, 38, Fresno, Texas – three counts theft of a motor vehicle, four counts criminal conspiracy, four counts criminal trespass, theft, obstruction of justice, $2,500 bail.

Stephon Schency Kelly, Jr., affectionately known as “Steph,” was a man of spirited character, loving warmth, and infectious humor. Born on February 27, 1988, in Alexandria, LA, Stephon spent his formative years here, a place he always considered home. His adventurous spirit led him to the offshore drilling rigs as a Kitchen Crew Leader, a job he took very seriously. Despite his demanding career, Stephon always found time for things he enjoyed like basketball, horseback riding, spending time with family and most importantly, his children. Stephon was known for his playful demeanor and spontaneous adventures, which were always full of fun and laughter. He was adored by his friends and family who will miss him dearly.

Stephon’s life will be honored by his loving parents, Stephon Kelly Sr. and Monica Winn Dugger. His legacy will live on through the countless stories and memories that his loved ones will cherish forever.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at New Scott Olly Baptist Church, 2627 Willow Glen River Road, Alexandria, Louisiana. Following the service, Stephon will be laid to rest at Garden of Memories, 2733 Eddie Williams Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana. A public viewing and visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10:00 am at New Scott Olly Baptist Church.

Professional services are under the direction of Miller & Hill Funeral Directors. We kindly ask that you keep Stephon’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

We invite you to leave your memories and upload photos of Stephon to the memorial page, a lasting tribute to a man who made the world a little brighter with his funny, loving, spirited, and adventurous presence.

Family and friends of Charles Louis Winegeart are invited to join in celebrating his life at 11:00 a.m. on January 29, 2026, at Liberty Church, Alexandria, with Reverends Frank Peacock and Andrew Stokes officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Charles was born on September 5, 1947, to John W. Winegeart and Edna Jeffers Winegeart. He served his country from 1967-1992, including service in the Vietnam and First Persian Gulf Wars. He was very skilled in mechanical abilities, often teaching these skills to soldiers under his leadership. Charles married his sweetheart, Julia Ellen Monk, on June 1, 1969, and was blessed with three children: two sons, Jason Ross Winegeart and Brent Tyson Winegeart; and one daughter, Amy Marie Winegeart Bedgood (Tim).

Charles was a quiet man of integrity with a warm smile, a big heart, and a great sense of humor. He enjoyed working on his farm, raising cattle, chickens, and vegetables, sharing generously with neighbors, relatives, and friends. He also helped the local food bank and had his own business. He was described as “genuine” by one of his friends, “What you see, is what you get.”

He was a loving, devoted husband and father. As a faithful member of Amiable Baptist Church and Liberty Church, he raised his family in a Godly home and honored his wife. He enjoyed traveling, being with his family, and Bible study. He loved his country, he loved his family, and above all, he loved his Jesus.

During his lifetime, he buried his parents, John and Edna Winegeart; his brother, Kenneth Winegeart; four of his five sisters, Audrey Davis, Pauline Melder, Verla White, and Geraldine Nessmith; and one son, Jason Ross Winegeart. He went home to be with his Savior on January 23, 2026.

We, his family, continue to honor his life by living and sharing the love of God with others. He is survived by his wife of almost fifty-seven years, Ellen Monk; his children, Amy Bedgood (Tim) and Brent Winegeart; his grandson he dearly loved, Tristan Timothy Bedgood; and his one and only granddaughter, Amellyn Grace Bedgood.

Friends and family will celebrate together between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Glenmora. Visitation will resume on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Liberty Church, Alexandria, with homegoing services to follow at 11:00 a.m. Until the Lord returns, his earthly temple will rest at Campground Cemetery in Glenmora, Louisiana.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Brent Winegeart, Tim Bedgood, Tristan Bedgood, Joshua Wells, Jody Bailey, Joseph Greene, Dale Winegeart, and Charles Brossett. Honorary pallbearers will be Earl Monk, Clyde Wells, James Lee, and Amellyn Bedgood.

In his memory, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cenla Food Bank or Campground Cemetery Association.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office reports that precipitation has ended across the region and the threat of freezing rain has passed, prompting the cancellation of the Ice Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory. However, temperatures are expected to fall below freezing late Sunday, creating the potential for black ice overnight into Monday where standing water remains. Very cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills are also forecast for Sunday night, Monday night, and Tuesday night. Residents are urged to use caution while traveling and remain alert to changing conditions.

For the safety of our patients, colleagues and community, most non-urgent and non-emergent services at Rapides Regional Medical Center will either be closed or with reduced operating hours on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, due to the winter storm forecast to impact Central Louisiana this weekend.

Services and departments that will be closed on Monday include:
• Rapides Specialty Clinic
• Cardiac Rehab
• HP Long Clinics

Services and departments that plan to open at noon on Monday include:
• Rapides Outpatient Center
• Rapides Cancer Center
• Rapides Regional Physician Group clinics

The Emergency Room of Rapides Regional Medical Center will remain open.

Preparations have been made to house on campus Rapides Regional Medical Center colleagues that are concerned about travel but have shifts scheduled for this weekend to ensure patient care is not impacted.

By Rich Dupree

When was the last time you walked through the Alexandria Mall? Come on, think about it. Has it really been that long? For many in Central Louisiana, the Alexandria Mall is a thing of the past – and for those of us who have lived here all our lives, we are starting to dread the news headlines of some of our favorites who are leaving.

This week, Bath and Body Works announced it was closing for good this Saturday. Not much notice to make one more run for favorite bath products. 

Just last month, Chick-fil-A, an almost 40-year staple of the Alexandria Mall, closed its doors for good on December 31^st.

Those Mall closures join a 2025 list that includes Kirkland’s Home Goods on October 12, and Aeropostale, which closed last February.

While names like JCPenney and Dillard’s are still operating, a lot has changed since the Alexandria Mall opened its doors on August 1, 1973. When the mall opened 53 years ago, it started with 30 stores spanning nearly 500,000 square feet.

Today, there are many challenges facing not just the Alexandria Mall, but similar concepts all across the country. Many Mall stores are closing due to a combination of factors. From lingering financial impacts from the pandemic, to the rising tide of e-commerce competition, to you and I simply changing our shopping habits and pursuing the easier options available to us, the Mall experience has changed and forced many tough decisions by retailers and their future.

Malls themselves are also struggling with underperforming locations, declining foot traffic and in the end, higher real estate costs, combined with labor and operating struggles, all of which are making it harder for Malls to compete and brick-and-mortar stores to remain profitable.

So what does the future hold for the Alexandria Mall and traditional retail in general. Well today’s shopper, especially the younger generations, are looking for more than just products to buy – they are looking for unique experiences, dining options and creative entertainment that you just can’t get online.

Some Malls are even adding apartments, hotels, offices, churches and more non-retail attractions just to survive. Time will tell if our Mall can or will pursue a “live, work, play” mixed use concept – but something has to change, and here’s hoping it does.

Chick-fil-A: An Alexandria Location to Close

The Rapides Parish Courthouse and all Rapides Parish Police Jury offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to threatening and inclement arctic winter weather. The closure is in accordance with Governor Jeff Landry’s State of Emergency Declaration No. JML 26-006.

The closure includes the Police Jury’s administrative offices, the Parish Public Works Department, the Rapides Sales and Use Tax Department Office, the Civil Service Office, and the Workforce Operations Department Office.

Parish officials said the decision was made to ensure the safety of employees and the public during hazardous weather conditions. Additional information regarding reopening will be provided as conditions improve.

The announcement was issued by Craig Smith, president of the Rapides Parish Police Jury.

Rapides Parish Public Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to expected winter weather conditions. The National Weather Service and local authorities have forecast freezing rain beginning Saturday evening and continuing into Sunday, creating hazardous road conditions that are expected to persist.

Officials warned that travel will be restricted for all teams, clubs, and organizations over the weekend due to potential road closures.

District leaders said they will continue to monitor weather conditions and building safety throughout the event. A decision regarding a safe return to school and work will be made by 2 p.m. on Monday.