Bid date nears for phase of major port project

By JIM BUTLER 

The next step in continuing development at the Central Louisiana Regional Port occurs February 10 when bids are received for about 21 acres of handstand construction. 

Estimated cost of the stone reinforced area that will be a storage and parking site for electrical substation parts is $2.2 to $2.7 million. 

It is part of the substation manufacturing facility being located at the port by Dis-Tran, a subsidiary of Pineville-based Crest Industries. 

The facility is a $23.6 million, 149,000 square feet project expected to be completed by December, according to previous reports. 

Large investment of private and public dollars is a fact of life at ports. 

An audit report released this month show the one just north of Alexandria with $43.5 million in capital assets. 

A manufacturing park development underway will add to that. 

The report shows the port had operating revenues of $1.44 million from leases and rent and expenses of $1.58 million, including about $915 million in depreciation. 

That operating loss was recovered by $244, 000 in earned interest and $2.4 million in capital contribution.

The port’s net position increased by $2.5 million to $36.2 million at the audit year’s end.


Rapides Parish School Board announces district Math Bee winners

Students from across Rapides Parish showcased their math skills during the District Math Bee held at the Rapides Parish School Board Central Office, where feeder system champions competed for district honors.

The competition highlighted students’ speed, accuracy and ability to perform under pressure. District officials recognized three top performers for their outstanding achievements. Elise B. of Tioga Elementary earned first place, followed by Janiyah L. of L.S. Rugg Elementary in second place. Cole L. of Glenmora High School placed third.

School officials praised all participating students for their dedication and enthusiasm for learning, noting that each competitor demonstrated strong preparation and a commitment to academic excellence.

The District Math Bee is part of the school board’s ongoing efforts to encourage academic achievement and celebrate student success across all grade levels.


Winter Storm Watch issued for Rapides Parish as freezing rain, ice threaten weekend travel

A significant shift in weather conditions is expected across Rapides Parish over the coming days, with a Winter Storm Watch in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon as freezing rain, icy roads and dangerously cold temperatures move into the area.

Cloudy skies will dominate the remainder of the workweek, with mild temperatures on Friday before a sharp drop late Friday night. Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy with a slight chance of afternoon showers and highs in the mid-60s. Rain chances increase Friday, with temperatures cooling to around 60 degrees during the day Friday.

Conditions are forecast to deteriorate rapidly Friday night as much colder air moves in. Rain showers are expected to become more widespread after midnight, with lows falling into the mid-30s. Northeast winds will strengthen, with gusts up to 25 mph, setting the stage for hazardous weather through the weekend.

Saturday is expected to bring steady rain and much colder conditions, with temperatures holding in the upper 30s throughout the day. Rain is forecast to continue into Saturday night, transitioning to freezing rain as temperatures fall into the lower 20s. Ice accumulation between one-tenth and four-tenths of an inch is possible, which could lead to slick roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Freezing rain is expected to continue into Sunday morning, with a mix of freezing rain and rain showers possible later in the day. Highs on Sunday are expected to remain in the lower 30s. Cold conditions will persist Sunday night, with overnight lows between 15 and 20 degrees.

The cold snap will continue into early next week, with highs only in the mid-30s Monday and overnight lows dropping into the teens. Temperatures will gradually moderate by midweek, with highs reaching the upper 40s by Wednesday.

In addition to the Winter Storm Watch, a cold weather advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through noon Sunday due to dangerously low wind chills, which could dip as low as 12 degrees. These conditions increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Residents are urged to delay travel during the weekend if possible. Those who must travel should use extreme caution, allow extra time, and remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions. Officials also advise ensuring vehicles are winterized, checking on elderly neighbors and family members, bringing pets indoors, and using space heaters safely.

Weather conditions will continue to be monitored as the weekend approaches, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence in the forecast increases.


AEX urges travelers to monitor weather, flight status prior to planned travel

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) advises airline passengers to closely monitor weather forecasts and the airlines’ flight-status updates prior to planned travel in the coming days. Inclement weather may impact travel conditions, both on roadways and in the air.

“Our primary concern is safety – for all those impacted, as well as that of our facilities,” said Ralph Hennessy, Executive Director of England Airpark and AEX. “Our AEX operations team, along with our airline partners and air traffic controllers, work together to ensure passenger safety, minimize disruptions, and otherwise support travelers. We encourage travelers to stay informed of weather conditions and their potential impacts on flight schedules.”

What Travelers Should Do:
1. Verify flight status – Visit your airline’s website or app for real-time updates on flight status.
2. Plan ahead – Check the weather forecasts, not only for the Alexandria area, but also your destination. Build in extra travel time to the airport and anticipate possible weather-related flight delays or cancellations.
3. Pack essentials – Pack necessary items, such as medications and device chargers, in your carry-on in case of unexpected delays.

In addition to monitoring airline sites, AEX travelers can find arrivals and departures at flyaex.org.


Buckeye High School to close today for main water line repair

Due to a main water line requiring immediate repair, Buckeye High School will be closed on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Hayden R. Lawrence PreK-8 and Buckeye Elementary School will remain open and operating on their regular schedules. Admin appreciates the cooperation of the Buckeye High School community as it addresses this necessary repair to ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.


Alexandria Sr. High edges Tioga to claim Golden Boot, record year sees $4,460 raised for ACS

Alexandria Senior High and Tioga High School battled neck and neck for most of the 2025 football season to see who would claim the Golden Boot award for raising the most money through Rapides Cancer Center’s Kick Cancer program.

The program involves Rapides Cancer Center partnering with Rapides Parish’s eight football-playing high schools to raise money for the American Cancer Society, as well as each program, through every successful field goal ($20 each) and Point After Try ($10) during the season and playoffs.

The two schools entered the playoffs tied, but ASH wound up prevailing in the closest finish in Kick Cancer’s four-year history, edging Tioga with $770 to Tioga’s $690. ASH connected on 57 PATs and 10 field goals.

“We are honored to earn this award again,” said ASH football coach Thomas Bachman. “We place an emphasis on winning Kick Cancer because it not only means we had success on the field, but it also means we are helping make a difference off the field in the fight against cancer.”

This is the fourth straight season ASH has claimed the Golden Boot. Combined, Rapides Parish schools raised a record $4,460 for the American Cancer Society during the 2025 season. Overall, more than $17,000 has been raised for the ACS since Kick Cancer began.

“We are deeply grateful for the continued support of Rapides Regional Medical Center,” said Kristin Franks, senior development manager for American Cancer Society. “The American Cancer Society’s mission to end cancer as we know it for everyone relies on communities coming together to raise awareness and critical funds for research, advocacy, and patient support services. With the generosity of our sponsors and our community, we’re making meaningful impact for Louisiana cancer patients.”

“We are continually amazed that our local schools raise the bar each football season for the amount of money we are able to raise for the American Cancer Society,” said Charla H. Ducote, Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing and Business Development at Rapides Regional Medical Center. “We congratulate Alexandria Senior High on a great season, as well as Tioga for pushing the Trojans. We continue to look forward to the day we can truly kick cancer once and for all.”

The six other schools in the parish – Bolton, Buckeye, Holy Savior Menard, Northwood, Peabody and Pineville – are receiving a minimum donation of $500, with an equal donation made on their behalf to ACS.


LSUA men move closer to RRAC lead

(Photo courtesy LSUA Athletics)

LSU Shreveport’s loss Thursday was LSU Alexandria’s gain.

Over in Hawkins, Texas, LSUS was upset 79-72 at Jarvis Christian, losing for the first time In 13 Red River Athletic Conference basketball games

LSUA’s men held serve easily at the Fort Thursday, blasting visiting North American 87-65 as E.J. McQuillan scored 17 and Jordan Decuir added 15. The Generals rose to 10-3 in conference, 13-6 overall.

The LSUA women also won, 81-74, over North American to improve to 8-10 overall and 7-6 in conference.

Saturday afternoon, the LSUA teams will host Xavier in a 1 p.m. doubleheader. Thursday, Xavier swept its visit to Louisiana Christian, winning the men’s game 71-54 after taking the women’s contest 75-60.

LCU’s teams are having down years. The me are 4-14 overall, 2-10 in the RRAC and the women are 2-16, 1-11. They will host North American Saturday in a doubleheader.


Explore Alexandria/Pineville receives Louey Award for Community Heart Project

Explore Alexandria/Pineville was recognized by the Louisiana Travel Association at its annual meeting on Jan. 22 with a Louey Award for Tourism Campaign of the Year under $29,000 for its Community Heart Project.

The Community Heart Project focuses on beautifying and inspiring Central Louisiana by engaging community members in the creation of heart-shaped sculptures displayed throughout the region. The initiative highlights local culture and heritage while transforming public spaces into shared expressions of art and community pride.

Officials with Explore Alexandria/Pineville said the project reflects the organization’s mission to foster collaboration and creativity while leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. The award recognizes innovative and impactful tourism campaigns that strengthen community identity and encourage engagement.

The Louisiana Travel Association’s Louey Awards honor excellence in tourism marketing and promotion across the state.


Remember Marguerite Rose Felton McGraw

Marguerite Rose Felton McGraw passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in Dallas, Texas in 1939 to Frank Douglas Felton, Sr. and Elizabeth Marie Kuhnell Felton, Marguerite spent her early years in East Texas where her father worked in the oil industry. The family moved to southeast Louisiana when her father’s job required a transfer. Marguerite graduated from Chalmette High School in 1957 and subsequently attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana in Lafayette, Louisiana until her marriage to Richard Glen McGraw in 1959. Upon their marriage and Richard’s graduation from USL, she and Richard moved to the family farm in Lecompte, Louisiana. This began a new adventure for Marguerite as she learned how to be a farmer’s wife. She and Richard worked hard and raised their five children to love and appreciate farm life.

Marguerite later returned to college and completed her bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University in May 1987 at the age of 48. She then began working as a case manager in the social work industry helping children, adolescents and the elderly who needed an advocate and continued in this profession until her retirement.

Marguerite and Richard were members of Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria for over 40 years where they met and made many friends and delighted in their travel escapades with their Senior Adult Sunday School classmates.

Over the years, Marguerite enjoyed and became skilled at sewing, crafts, and cake decorating. She also enjoyed designing and making quilts and gifted many to family and friends.

She is predeceased by her parents, Frank D. Felton, Sr. and Elizabeth Kuhnell Felton; brother, Frank D. Felton, Jr., and her husband of 56 years, Richard Glen McGraw.

She is survived by her daughters; Lisa McGraw Baronet (Rod), Katherine McGraw Kretzsinger, Julie McGraw Dauzat (Randy), Glenda McGraw Regnart (Jeff) and her son, Christopher Glen McGraw (Denise). She is also survived by twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, as well as her nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Debra Bryant and her staff at Unlimited Senior Care as well as the staff at Regency House and Guardian Hospice for their kindness and care.

A private remembrance will be held at a later date by the family.

To extend online notes of condolence to the McGraw family, please visit http://www.KramerFunerals.com.


Remembering Francis Marie Curtis

A funeral service for Francis Marie Curtis will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Jeane’s Funeral Service in Leesville with Reverend John Lewing officiating. A visitation will be held on Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Francis was born February 15, 1947, in Many, Louisiana and passed away January 21, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana at the age of 78. She lived in Louisiana all of her life mostly in the Hornbeck area but also in Keithville. She worked for a while in role play at Fort Polk and then was the owner of Crinnon’s Corner Restaurant in Hornbeck. Francis enjoyed shopping and tending to her flowers and being outdoors fishing or camping.

Francis was preceded in death by her parents, Jack Robert Spears and Mary Alice Gordon Spears; grandson, Justin Brooks; and sister, Barbara Spears.

Those left to cherish her memory are her son, Robert Brooks of Hornbeck, LA; daughter, Barbara Davis of Hornbeck, LA; grandchildren, Haley Brooks, Austin Brooks, Brooks Bridges (Brandy), and Jacklyn Thompson (D.J.); great-grandchildren, Carter, Averi, John Austin Jr., Braylon, Dawson, Presley, Elisha, Justlynn, Ezekiel, and Roman; brother, Jack Robert Spears Jr. (Kathy) of Dubach, LA; sisters, Charlotte McCain (Danny Patterson) of Keithville, LA and Patricia Johnson of Catawba, SC; and extended family members and friends.


Dear Ida: She’s flown the coop — now what?

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


Notice of Death – January 22, 2026

Elaine Gorham
July 15, 1939 – January 21, 2026
Service: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Lisa Ann Tabor McCrea
March 18, 1967 – January 19, 2026
Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 1pm at Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Allison Ann Tillie
November 14, 2001 – January 19, 2026
Service: Tuesday, January 27, 2026, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Deloris Powell
July 13, 1943 – January 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, January 24, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Mary Ann Williams
November 15, 1960 – January 18, 2026
Service: Sunday, January 25, 2026, 3pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Jack B. Jenkins
October 26, 1948 – January 17, 2026
Service: Tuesday, January 27, 2026, 11am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Edwin Charles “Charlie” Moore
June 20, 1944 – January 16, 2026
Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Russell Dorsey
July 13, 1950 – January 15, 2026
Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 11am at Nazarene Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Richard B. McLaren
November 22, 1960 – January 12, 2026
Service: Friday, January 23, 2026, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Richard Madeo
December 10, 1942 – January 2026
Service: TBA

Bryce David Evans
April 27, 1967 – January 8, 2026
Service: Saturday, January 31, 2026, 11am at Greater New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Philip Morris Laborde
March 1, 1934 – January 7, 2026
Service: Saturday January 24, 2026, 4-6pm at the family home.

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

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


England negotiating with digital infrastructure firm

672 Acre near Boyce, Louisiana

By JIM BUTLER

The England Authority will discuss in executive session today economic development negotiations with what is labeled Project Lightning.

Sources independent of each other say “Lightning” is a digital infrastructure project proposed by Applied Digital of Dallas.

If located here the enterprise projects 1,500 construction-related jobs and 200 new employees in the first year of operation, averaging $65,000 annual wage. 

The Authority would create its Sub-District 4 to house the plant on about 672 acres near Boyce. 

Allied purchased the land in December. That sale was initially reported by Steven Maxwell’s Cenla Update. 

The tract description begins at LA 121 and the west side of I-49 and extends north and south from there. 

Legislation creating the Authority allows sub-district creation anywhere within the parish. 

Allied seeks a Cooperative Development Agreement to, among other things, provide Payment In Lieu Of Taxes. 

Such negotiations are privileged under Louisiana law. 

Allied provides digital infrastructure facilities to high-performance and Artificial Intelligence industries in North America. 

According to Secretary of State records, the firm’s APLD ALX-1 LLC was established on January 6. 

Industry publications indicate the Rapides site would be powered by natural gas-fueled steam turbines. 

Subsequent to the Lightning session, the Authority will hold its regular monthly meeting.


Winter Storm Watch issued for Rapides Parish as freezing rain, ice threaten weekend travel

A significant shift in weather conditions is expected across Rapides Parish over the coming days, with a Winter Storm Watch in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon as freezing rain, icy roads and dangerously cold temperatures move into the area.

Cloudy skies will dominate the remainder of the workweek, with mild temperatures on Thursday and Friday before a sharp drop late Friday night. Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy with a slight chance of afternoon showers and highs in the mid-60s. Rain chances increase Thursday night into Friday, with temperatures cooling to around 60 degrees during the day Friday.

Conditions are forecast to deteriorate rapidly Friday night as much colder air moves in. Rain showers are expected to become more widespread after midnight, with lows falling into the mid-30s. Northeast winds will strengthen, with gusts up to 25 mph, setting the stage for hazardous weather through the weekend.

Saturday is expected to bring steady rain and much colder conditions, with temperatures holding in the upper 30s throughout the day. Rain is forecast to continue into Saturday night, transitioning to freezing rain as temperatures fall into the lower 20s. Ice accumulation between one-tenth and four-tenths of an inch is possible, which could lead to slick roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.

Freezing rain is expected to continue into Sunday morning, with a mix of freezing rain and rain showers possible later in the day. Highs on Sunday are expected to remain in the lower 30s. Cold conditions will persist Sunday night, with overnight lows between 15 and 20 degrees.

The cold snap will continue into early next week, with highs only in the mid-30s Monday and overnight lows dropping into the teens. Temperatures will gradually moderate by midweek, with highs reaching the upper 40s by Wednesday.

In addition to the Winter Storm Watch, a cold weather advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday through noon Sunday due to dangerously low wind chills, which could dip as low as 12 degrees. These conditions increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.

Residents are urged to delay travel during the weekend if possible. Those who must travel should use extreme caution, allow extra time, and remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions. Officials also advise ensuring vehicles are winterized, checking on elderly neighbors and family members, bringing pets indoors, and using space heaters safely.

Weather conditions will continue to be monitored as the weekend approaches, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence in the forecast increases.


Rep. Owen: False claims distort facts

PERSPECTIVE/By State Representative Charles Owen

Being the target of false accusations and outright lies is unfortunately part of public life. As a rule, I don’t respond to lies, but a recent editorial here contained accusations so demonstrably false I must correct the record, out of principle. 

People who know me and constituents I represent in Vernon and Beauregard wouldn’t believe these claims any more than they’d believe I’d root for the Dallas Cowboys or against my Wampus Cats.

First, a correction: There is no legislator named “Owens.” My last name has four letters. No “s,” please.

Mark Guillory accused me and colleagues Reps. Brett Geymann and Mike Johnson of being “environmental radicals.” That’s laughable and bizarre. Since taking office in 2020, I’ve cast thousands of votes, always striving to do my best. I own my mistakes.

In 2020 in the height of COVID shutdown damage, I was misled into supporting Senate Bill 353, which I was told would help the oil and gas industry recover. The full implications became clear later, and I’ve been working ever since to undo the damage and roll back the framework that enabled carbon sequestration policies. Guillory claims the 2020 bill is the sole cause of today’s issues. That’s simply not true. The foundation was laid much earlier—in laws from 1981, 2009, and 2014.

In 2025 my colleagues and I worked to deliver a major blow to the green agenda. Through SB244, Rep. Geymann amended law to remove language in state law identifying greenhouse gases as a threat to Louisiana. This is important because of the way our laws and courts operate.  He identified another vulnerability and, with majority support ensured captured carbon is treated in court like oil and gas—requiring companies to prove a public good to use eminent domain. They can’t, industry knows it.  

It wasn’t a complete victory, but it was a strong beachhead for future fights this coming session.

In 2024, I authored legislation to eliminate electric vehicles from the state fleet. The bill was killed by crony capitalists, but my position was clear: current EVs for first responders or police are disastrous.  In 2021 and 2022, I voted to end tax credits for solar companies, restrict solar expansion, and limit Red Chinese involvement in Louisiana solar projects. I’ve fought against ESG in our state and will continue until it’s eradicated.   

Since 2023, I’ve stood firmly against carbon sequestration: standing for Lake Maurepas, opposing eminent domain expansions for sequestration, and authoring HB4 in 2025 to give parishes opt-in/opt-out authority over carbon wells. More bills are coming this session, including ending decades-old expropriation authority for foreign entities.

Guillory is free to criticize me but calling me an environmental radical is like saying I supported vaccine mandates or John Bel Edwards—simply not true. He has knowingly said many wrong things against conservatives. 

I stand with property owners, not with forced carbon burial. No landowner should have their rights overridden for unwanted underground carbon storage. It should be illegal, and I am committed to working with anyone willing to defend private property against this abuse. Mike Johnson and Brett Geymann stand there, as well. They can speak for themselves and will.

— State Representative Charles Owen (without an “s”).


Cenla Fly Fishing Festival comes to Kees Park Civic Center on Saturday

The Kisatchie Fly Fishers are proud to host the 6th Biennial Cenla Fly Fishing Festival on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm at Kees Park Civic Center in Pineville. Admission is free.

Held in even years, this event features expert seminars on fly fishing for bass, trout, redfish and other species, kayak fishing, and other aspects of the sport. There’s also fly tying demonstrations, casting instruction, exhibitors, a raffle, and much more. Lunch is available for a nominal charge. Net proceeds from the raffle benefit The Food Bank of Central Louisiana.

For details, go to the Kisatchie Fly Fishers website at www.kisatchiefly.org.


Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office breaks ground on new Cheneyville Substation

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office marked a milestone in expanding public safety services with a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 21 for the new Cheneyville Sheriff’s Substation on U.S. Highway 71 South.

The project is part of an ongoing effort by Sheriff Mark Wood’s administration, which since 2020 has partnered with volunteer fire departments in rural areas of the parish to improve access to law enforcement and emergency services. The Cheneyville substation follows the opening of the Hineston Substation on Louisiana Highway 121 and the Kolin Substation on Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville.

Planning for the Cheneyville location took several months and was made possible through funding provided by the State of Louisiana, with support from District 38 Representative Rhonda Butler and District 29 Senator W. Jay Luneau. The groundbreaking ceremony was held in conjunction with Rapides Parish Fire District 12, led by Chief Stanley.

The new substation is intended to serve the southern portion of the parish, improving response times and strengthening law enforcement coverage for the communities of Cheneyville and Lecompte. In addition to patrol operations, the substation will provide residents with more convenient access to investigative services.

Once operational, the Cheneyville substation will offer 24-hour coverage. Staffing will include a deputy communications officer, a patrol deputy, a resident deputy and a detective assigned to assist citizens with investigations, reducing the need for residents to travel to Alexandria for services.

Local and parish officials attended the ceremony, including mayors from Cheneyville, Lecompte and Woodworth, along with members of the Rapides Parish Police Jury. Sheriff Wood said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment among local leaders to enhance public safety and provide residents with reliable and accessible law enforcement services.

The Cheneyville substation represents the latest step in a broader strategy to expand community-based public safety infrastructure across Rapides Parish.


Pineville man racks up $200K bail on drug, gun charges

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Jan. 21

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

Carl Hall IV, 22, Pineville – OWI, open container, possession of marijuana, headlamps required, $1,900 bail.

Jan. 20

Casey Alan Berlin, 42, Ball – 10 counts contempt of court, $280,500 bail;

Malcolm Rashod Fay, 26, Alexandria – two counts theft, criminal trespass, $1,500 bail;

James Arthur Hunter III, 37, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, legend drug possession, possession of firearm by convicted felon, unlawful use/possession of body armor, probation violation, $201,000 bail;

Darrion Gerald Johnson, 42, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, headlamps required on motor vehicles, driving under suspension, $1,300 bail;

Rick James Mason, 43, Alexandria – simple battery, $1,000 bail;

Gabrielle Nicole Rogers, 34, Alexandria – aggravated battery, safety belt violation, possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, open container, $2,700 bail;

Nathanial Dwayne Simon, 35, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, no child restraint system, headlamps required, no driver’s license, contempt of court, $3,800 bail;

Michael Royce Spiceland, 46, Alexandria – aggravated battery, possession of marijuana, speeding, running a yellow light, open container, driving across a median, wrong way on one way street, improper lane usage, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of CDS, hit and run driving, no signals, aggravated obstruction of highway, flight from an officer, $3,700 bail;

Charles Andre Steiner Jr., 32, Logansport – criminal conspiracy, three counts simple burglary, theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage to property, $75,000 bail;

Michael Wayne Vallery, 61, Pineville – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, open container, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, $2,200 bail.

Jan. 19

Richard Gordon Bishop Jr., 65, Pineville – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $7,500 bail;

Joseph Monhollen Dubrawsky, 43, Ball – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Charles Demonte Hall, 44, Alexandria – aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, aggravated battery of a police officer, four counts theft, trespassing, simple escape, two counts theft (second/subsequent conviction), battery on officer, simple resisting a police officer with force or violence, resisting an officer, simple burglary, eight counts contempt of court, $183,000 bail;

Rhonda Ann Lachney, 53, Marksville – theft, three counts contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Dontornious Demetrius Mims, 45, Alexandria – possession of CDS, $2,000 bail;

Jamarcus Niko Sewell, 35, Alexandria – driving under suspension, speeding, no signals, resisting an officer, two counts Louisiana fugitive, two counts contempt of court, $5,800 bail;

Brandon Marquis Thompson, 33, Alexandria – aggravated arson, no bail data;

Darrion Michael Thompson, 34, Alexandria – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, possession of marijuana, improper turn, $3,100 bail.

Jan. 18

Angelique R. Armstrong, 44, Alexandria – 10 counts contempt of court, $12,300 bail;

Trivonta William Smoot, 24, Alexandria – possession of stolen property, lights and tail lights, possession of marijuana, $2,100 bail;

Donnie Ray Thompson, 64, Alexandria – simple battery, theft, Louisiana fugitive, four counts contempt of court, two counts resisting an officer, misrepresentation during booking, obstruction of justice, bicycle reflectors, improper bicycle operation, possession of drug paraphernalia, $14,500 bail.


Remembering Mary Ann Williams

Mary Ann Williams, age 65, of Alexandria Louisiana, entered eternal rest on January 18, 2026. Funeral services will be held at Gallagher Funeral Home on Sunday, January 25, with visitation beginning at 2:00pm until time of service at 3:00pm with Bro. Grady Dodge officiating.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 42 years, Arthur Louis Williams, her daughter Amanda Marie Williams; her sons Joseph Allen Williams and Wade Raymond Williams and his children, Christina, Evelyn, and Jacob; her brothers, Steve Roshto and Ray Roshto and their wives; and her sister, Kaylene Thomas and her husband; along with many nieces and nephews, and cousins and other beloved family members. She is preceded in death with her parents, Ray and Dottie Roshto, her brothers, Harry (Bully) Roshto and Jerry (Joker) Roshto, and her beloved sister Linda Marie Hinton.

To know Mary was to love her. She was blessed with a gentle, kind, and generous spirit, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her family and faith in the Lord meant everything to her. And she was a devoted sister who helped care for most of her siblings at one time or another during her lifetime.

Before the progression of her illness, Mary faithfully drove miles on Sundays to attend and bring her grandson to Children’s Church at Richey Baptist Church. She particularly regretted not being well enough to attend Christmas services. Mary loved to fish and spent many long days fishing with her brother, Steve. She also loved playing cards and games with her family and friends. She regularly visited friends and family in hospitals, always bringing a thoughtful gift. She spoke often of how she enjoyed many vacations at the beach with family members and of her vacations with her cousins. She also spoke of how much she enjoyed many impromptu drives with her husband to their favorite eating places.

She remained optimistic despite her hard-fought battle with cancer. She was looking forward to getting back to a job she so loved, going back to church with her sweet grandson, and doing all the other things she enjoyed. She is, instead, experiencing unending joy, peace, and perfect happiness in the presence of our Lord.

Her family wishes to thank everyone for all the love, prayers, and concerns during her illness. A special thanks to her employers and coworkers at Payne, Moore & Herrington, who remained so helpful, thoughtful, and caring, even after she was no longer able to work. Also, a special thanks to Billy McRae, Director of Christus Community Clinics, for his exceptional care and advice during Mary’s final days.

Mary will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her.