Lately, during the extremely cold weather that we experienced a couple of weeks ago, I took some time to watch a few fishing podcasts. There are a handful of programs that I follow from top anglers within the world of professional bass fishing. 

One of these is “After the Cast” with Major League Fishing pros Andy Montgomery, Edwin Evers and Ott DeFoe, strong personalities and great reputations for not only being outstanding anglers, but good Christians. 

Their podcast is a behind the scenes look at the daily rigors that tournament anglers go through from the travel they face, to practice and tournament days. 

But they’ll also sit down and talk about hot topics going on in bass fishing. They’re not afraid to voice their opinions and share their thoughts which makes the podcast very interesting to watch. 

Another podcast I follow is “Zaldangerous,” also known as “The Bilge,” a program with Elite Series angler and Texas pro Chris Zaldain and his wife, Trait. These two do not shy away from controversial topics and are not afraid to challenge the establishments of B.A.S.S. or Major League Fishing (MLF) when it comes to rules violations or recent decisions that have been made with regards to a tournament organization.

Both podcasts, “After the Cast” and “Zaldangerous,” are programs that anyone would enjoy. They’re both great at shedding light on the hot topics in professional bass fishing while discussing possible solutions.

These are people “living the dream” by fishing for a living. They travel like gypsies and caravan across the country, fishing the best fisheries in America. They discuss today’s anglers and how to navigate the demands of professional bass fishing. 

But their biggest concern is trying to provide for their families as a pro fisherman. So many of today’s anglers face obstacles that previous generations did not. First and foremost, how to navigate social media. This is a problem the older generation of anglers never had to deal with. 

All three professional bass tournament organizations require that all anglers participate in social media. This can be in many forms like a podcast, Facebook page, YouTube videos, Tik Tok or maybe an Instagram account. 

In today’s business world, it’s important that anglers have a social media presence as a way of promoting sponsor product and themselves as well. Of course, we all know that social media can be a place of controversy with people who are looking to discredit or cast blame on others for a particular situation. 

Having a great social media presence is all about how many “clicks” or “likes” you’re getting with the posts you’re making. A really good account can translate into valuable dollars. It’s also another avenue where anglers can make money to help supplement their income.  

But here’s a question — can the average angler make it as a professional bass fisherman today? The biggest issue facing anglers today are with sponsors; there just are not enough to go around. Sponsors are a critical part of how anglers make a living and provide for their families. Tournament winnings are just a bonus for anglers and are not factored into their annual budgets. 

The fishing industry in general is just not big enough to support all the anglers looking to fish professionally. Most are stretched very thin with regards to how many anglers they can afford to sponsor. 

The industry is short on sponsorship dollars with there being three major professional bass fishing organizations — Major League Fishing (MLF), B.A.S.S. and the new National Professional Fishing League (NPFL).  

Anglers today are having to think outside the box and look at nonendemic companies that may have never had a presence in the bass fishing market.

Back during the old FLW days (2000 to 2012), there was Walmart, Land of Lakes, Kellogg’s, Snickers, Castro Motor Oil and many more that sank huge amounts of money into many of the old FLW Tour anglers. 

But ever since the demise of the FLW Tour around 2012, these sponsors have chosen to walk away and are no longer interested in this market, leaving a huge sponsorship void for anglers to pursue. 

Less sponsors means a bigger strain on anglers’ budgets as they try to navigate the costs involved with making a living as a professional.

Bottom line is this: with a shortage of sponsors it makes it very difficult for the average angler to participate on the professional level. It’s sad but it’s starting to look like only those anglers who have money, have a good financial support system like mom or dad, or wealthy grandparents will be the anglers who can compete on bass fishing’s highest level.  

As the old saying goes, “money can’t buy happiness,” but it can buy you a spot on a bass pro tour!  

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development is continuing work on a $4.8 million road improvement project along LA 1200 south of the Town of Boyce in Rapides Parish.

The project covers approximately 4.2 miles of roadway and includes installation of new roadway base material and milling of existing asphalt in preparation for fresh paving. DOTD officials said the work is progressing as planned, with contractors actively removing old asphalt layers and stabilizing the roadbed.

According to DOTD, the improvements are intended to enhance roadway durability and driving conditions along the corridor.

The project is currently estimated for completion in late spring 2026, weather permitting.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury has announced the dates and times for its upcoming committee meetings and regular monthly meeting in March.

The Police Jury’s standing committees will meet Monday, March 2, 2026, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office, located on the second floor of the Parish Courthouse at 701 Murray Street in Alexandria. Committees will meet in the following order: Finance; Public Works, Watershed and Agricultural Affairs; Workforce Development and Grants; Tourism and Economic Planning and Development; Courthouse, Coliseum and Facilities; Parochial Board Liaison and Municipal Liaison; Personnel, Elections, Insurance and Legal; and Ambulance, Fire, Health and Homeland Security.

The agenda for the committee meetings will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, on the Meeting Room door.

The regular meeting of the Rapides Parish Police Jury is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026, at 3 p.m., also in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office at the parish courthouse. The agenda for the regular meeting will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Both the committee meetings and the regular Police Jury meeting will be streamed live at rppj.com and on the Rapides Parish Police Jury YouTube channel at youtube.com/@rppj-la.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend.

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An Alexandria man was arrested Feb. 5 following a joint investigation by the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit and the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole after suspected fentanyl was discovered during a supervision check.

According to the RADE Unit, agents were contacted by Louisiana State Probation and Parole after officers located a substance believed to be fentanyl on a subject under their supervision, identified as Domingus Benson, 45, of Alexandria. RADE agents responded to the 4000 block of Third Street, where probation officers turned over the suspected narcotics.

Field testing confirmed the substance was fentanyl. Investigators then applied for and obtained a search warrant for a residence located at 4005 Third Street.

During a search of the residence, agents recovered approximately five ounces of powder cocaine and just over 3.5 grams of fentanyl. Authorities also located five firearms, assorted drug paraphernalia, and $594 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal narcotics sales.

Benson was arrested and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center, where he was booked on charges of possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (cocaine) with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (fentanyl) with intent to distribute, five counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, five counts of illegal carrying of a firearm with narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a parole violation.

Benson was also issued a civil asset forfeiture notice for the seized currency.

Authorities reported that Benson remains incarcerated and is being held on a parole violation as well as a $300,500 bond.

A RADE deputy assigned as a task force officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was contacted regarding one of the seized firearms that may violate legal barrel length requirements.

The investigation remains ongoing in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole.

The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Unit is a multi-jurisdictional task force comprised of the Alexandria Police Department, Ball Police Department, Boyce Police Department, Cheneyville Police Department, Forest Hill Police Department, Glenmora Police Department, Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lecompte Police Department, McNary Police Department, Pineville Police Department, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Woodworth Police Department, Grant Parish District Attorney’s Office, Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office, the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force.

Officials stated the RADE Unit continues to target individuals suspected of trafficking narcotics in central Louisiana. Anyone with information regarding narcotics activity is encouraged to contact the RADE Unit through its official Facebook page.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative action.

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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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February 11 marks the birthday of one of the most influential voices in modern music history: Whitney Houston. Born on this date in 1963, Houston’s impact on pop culture extends far beyond record sales, reshaping the sound of popular music and redefining what vocal excellence looked like for generations that followed.

Rising to fame in the mid-1980s, Houston quickly became a cultural force. Her 1985 self-titled debut album produced multiple chart-topping singles and introduced audiences to a voice that blended pop accessibility with gospel power. At a time when female pop artists were often boxed into narrow roles, Houston crossed genres effortlessly, finding success on pop, R&B, adult contemporary, and international charts simultaneously.

Her influence wasn’t limited to music. Houston’s presence on television and in film helped expand representation in mainstream entertainment. Her starring role in The Bodyguard (1992) cemented her status as a crossover superstar, while the film’s soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Songs like “I Will Always Love You” became cultural touchstones, played at weddings, graduations, sporting events, and moments of public mourning.

February 11 also invites reflection on Houston’s broader cultural legacy. She broke barriers for Black women in pop music during an era when radio formats were more rigidly segregated. Her success opened doors for countless artists who followed, including Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, and Adele, all of whom have cited Houston as a major influence.

Even decades after her peak, Houston’s voice remains a benchmark. Viral clips of her live performances continue to circulate online, often sparking renewed appreciation from younger audiences discovering her for the first time. Vocal coaches, music critics, and fans alike frequently reference her control, tone, and emotional delivery as unmatched.

While Houston’s life also included public struggles, her artistic legacy continues to overshadow controversy. Each year on February 11, fans around the world revisit her catalog, celebrate her achievements, and reflect on how deeply her music is woven into shared cultural memory.

In an industry that constantly evolves, Whitney Houston’s voice remains timeless — and February 11 serves as a reminder of the day one of pop culture’s greatest legends was born.

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Services for Lionell Piper will be at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Daughter of Zion Baptist Church. Pastor Willie Sewell will be officiating. Interment will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Mr. Piper, 80, of Alexandria, LA, passed away on February 7, 2026, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital. Lionell retired from the State of Louisiana. He was a member of Daughter of Zion Baptist Church, founder of Cenla Little League, member of Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Louisiana, F.A.A,Y.M., and a school bus driver for RPSB.

Lionell is preceded in death by his father: Edward Piper, Sr., mother: Irene Carpenter Piper, wife: Darnell J. Piper, daughter: Lynee Danielle Piper, sisters: Frankie Piper and Alice Carter, brothers: Edward Piper, Jr., Jimmy Piper, Sr., and Michael D. Piper.

Lionell leaves to cherish his memories – daughter: Gineane Watts, sons: Larry Lionell Piper (Melodie Piper)) and Lamont Charles Piper (Latoya Williams-Piper), brothers: David Piper, Robert Piper, Sr., Frank Piper, Gary Piper, Sr., and Wallace Piper, sisters: Betty Clark, Cary Seymour, and Nina Washington, along with 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

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Celebration of Life services honoring Mr. Larry Daniel Lewis, Sr. will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Lena, with Reverends Frank D. Randle, Jr. and Avery Hamilton officiating. Visitation will take place from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Leesville.

Larry, 66, a proud native of Yonkers, NY, who later made Pineville, his home, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Rapides Regional Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Donna Lewis Miles (Tony Miles), his paternal grandparents Horsley McKinley Lewis, Sr. and Flossie Ferguson Lewis, and his maternal grandparents Robert Morton McCoy and Flossie Ferguson McCoy.

Larry’s memory will be lovingly cherished by his devoted wife of 41 years, Carnella J. Lewis; their children Larry Lewis, Jr. and Cheryl Lewis; his grandchildren, Laryssa Lewis, Ayanna Lewis, Marcel Lewis, and Maya Bell; his parents Horsley McKinley Lewis, Jr. and Louise S. Lewis; his brothers Jerry Lewis (Jatun Lewis) and Jeffrey Lewis; his sisters Debra Lewis, Dr. Sharon Lewis, and Cheryl Chevis (Darnell Chevis); a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and dear friends who, through love and time, became his family.

Livestream of the service will be available online at mounthermonmbc.com.

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By JIM BUTLER 

Auditors report no questionable findings in their latest study of the City of Pineville, a marked contrast to their conclusions a year ago. 

The financial review of the year ending last June 30 has been posted, showing an $8.5 million increase in overall net position, including $2 million in unrestricted funds. 

Twelve months ago the city was getting the official financial review of a period of upheaval. 

The council’s February meeting this evening includes regular financial update. The fiscal year to this point has reflected no bumps in the road, so to speak. 

Auditors counted $42.3 million revenue in the year ending last June 30, $25 million in governmental activity and $17 million in business type activity. 

Sales taxes accounted for $17.8 million on the former side. On the latter, charges for services brought $11.8 million. 

Expenses included general government, $3.1 million; police, $7.8 million; fire, $5.9 million; public works, $4.3 million; culture and recreation, $2.8 million; utility service, $6.8 million; sanitation, $3.0 million. 

The year-end government activities fund balance was $9.4 million and reflected use of about $3.2 million to enhance city services, the report notes.

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Cody Ford of Pineville is set to be the Grand Marshal for Sunday’s Mardi Gras parade in Alexandria, and the honor is a nod to his widespread favorable recognition in our community.

He’s a 6-foot-3, 345-pound offensive lineman for the Cincinnati Bengals who played for Pineville High School and the Oklahoma Sooners. For five years he has been hosting an annual youth football camp in the area, and PHS recently retired his No. 74 jersey. He is the highest NFL Draft choice ever from this area, having been picked in the second round (38^th overall) by the Buffalo Bills in 2019.

When it comes to being recognized favorably in the community, Cody is quick to salute his late grandfather, Eddie Rabalais, who died in 2015 at age 67 when Cody was a redshirt freshman at Oklahoma. Rabalais, who was a pharmacist for 45 years, a member of the Avoyelles Parish School Board for 18 years, and arguably the most beloved member of a local Catholic men’s retreat community at his death, was Cody’s “Papa.”

But he was more than that.

“He was my best friend,” said Cody, 29, last week from his home in Dallas. “He taught me a lot about life and even about football.”

Cody still often signs his social media posts with the hashtag #RIPPAPA to honor Rabalais, a former offensive lineman himself at Northwestern State University. Rabalais became more involved in Cody’s life after his parents’ divorce when he was a youth. His father never visited again, and his single mom, Leah, moved the family into the home of her parents, Eddie and Sherry. 

“I like to tell people he was ‘community rich,’ and that’s what I strive for,” Cody said. “He was always trying to help anybody out, no matter who you were.”

Rabalais’ influence has been a motivation for Cody to give back to his community, which he visits often, with the annual football camp. An annual summer event, it may be moved to the spring this year, he said, in hopes to having cooler weather.

Through his nonprofit, Ford’s Pancake House, Cody has organized free Thanksgiving dinners and deliveries of Christmas gifts to local schools. A few years ago, he partnered with Pop’s Place to serve 300-plus free meals to special needs students, and he has provided football equipment and support to Pineville High and elementary schools in the area. Incidentally, he is set to be a guest of honor Thursday at the J.I. Barron Elementary Mardi Gras parade.

He has a soft spot, in terms of his “community-rich” support, for the poor or children with special needs.

Several years ago, when he was with the Buffalo Bills, he partnered with the relief organization Eight Days of Hope to donate $10,000 worth of supplies – including generators, pallets of water, and mattresses – to Pineville after Hurricane Laura. One of those generators was given to Joan Broussard, a single mother of four whose youngest daughter, Kylie Bush, was kept alive by feeding pumps.

Cody said physical education teacher Scotty Harrison from Rapides Training Academy is the president of his non-profit and part of his new “second family.”

“He’s similar to my grandpa,” said Cody, “and we’ve built a good connection. He’s my best friend.”

Cody has been an offensive lineman in the NFL seven years, with three different teams, but not until this season – the last game of this season – did he catch a pass. Ironically, too, it was on his 29^th birthday. It was a “gadget play” the team practiced that week, and during the third quarter of that blustery December afternoon, he was the No. 2 receiving option. He lined up as an eligible receiver, and quarterback Joe Burrow found him open on a sideline route and threw the ball his way.

Cody caught it and rumbled down the sideline, breaking tackles before being brought down at the opponents’ 2-yard line for a 21-yard gain. It set up a touchdown in the Bengals’ 37-14 victory over one of his former teams, the Arizona Cardinals, and he became the heaviest offensive lineman to catch a pass of 20-plus yards in NFL history. The rare accomplishment spurred the Cincinnati fans to begin chanting “Cody! Cody!” Teammates joined him in celebration.

“That was fun,” he said.

It was his first NFL career reception, and he told me he hadn’t caught a pass in a football game since his freshman year at Pineville when he played tight end and caught one pass that season.

It was a rare – and fun — catch but next up for fun in Cody’s off-season schedule – which involves workouts four days a week — is Alexandria’s Mardi Gras.

“I grew up being familiar with Mardi Gras,” he said. “It was a big part of my life. But I never knew as a kid there was a king or a queen of Mardi Gras.”

Call him King or call him Grand Marshal or just call him “Buddy” and ask if he can spare a trinket or a pair of beads. It’s another time for him to be “community rich” in the way of his beloved “Papa.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises the public that beginning Monday, February 16th, at 6:00 AM, weather permitting, the outside lanes of US 165 northbound and southbound, as well as three of the entrance/exit ramps at the US 167 Kingsville Interchange will be closed as part of an ongoing $6.2 million project to repair the roadway at this location.

It should be noted that the US 167 (Pineville Expressway) northbound exit to US 165 orthbound, and the inside lanes of US 165 northbound and southbound will remain open at all times during this phase. Please refer to the included detour maps.

These closures are necessary to allow for laying the asphalt concrete wearing course on the roadway and ramps. Work associated with this phase is expected to require approximately ten (10) working days, subject to weather conditions. Upon completion of this phase of construction, all US 167 ramps and the outside lanes of US 165 will be reopened.

The contract was awarded to Diamond B Construction Co., LLC.

The entire project is anticipated to wrap up in March 2026, weather permitting.

Permit/Detour section

A 12-foot width restriction will be in place on US 165 northbound and southbound between US 165 Business (Military Hwy) and US 71.

US 165 Northbound to US 167 Northbound & Southbound
Traffic traveling north on US 165 will detour onto north US 71 toward the VA Hospital. Continue on US 71 to the US 167 interchange. From there, traffic may exit right to access US 167 southbound or exit left to access US 167 northbound.

US 165 Southbound to US 167 Northbound & Southbound
Traffic traveling south on US 165 will detour right onto LA 623. Continue on LA 623 to LA 3225(Shreveport Hwy), then turn left onto LA 3225 southbound. Continue to the US 167 interchange. From there, traffic may exit right to access US 167 northbound or exit left to access US 167 southbound.

US 167 Northbound to US 165 Southbound
Continue north on US 167 to the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Exit and turn left onto US 71 southbound. Continue straight on US 71 toward the VA Hospital, merging onto the US 165/US 71 corridor to access US 165 southbound.

US 167 Northbound to US 165 Northbound
Traffic may use this exit to access US 165 northbound (only). No Left turn onto US 165 southbound will be allowed.

US 167 Southbound to US 165 Southbound
Exit US 167 southbound at the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Turn right onto US 71 southbound and continue straight toward the VA Hospital, merging onto the US 165/US 71 corridor to access US 165 southbound.

US 167 Southbound to US 165 Northbound
Exit US 167 southbound at the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Turn left onto LA 3225 northbound (Shreveport Hwy), then turn right onto LA 623 toward US 165. Turn left to access US 165 northbound.

Safety Reminder
All construction activity is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. DOTD appreciates the motoring public’s patience and reminds drivers to please exercise caution when traveling through work zone areas and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information
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. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at http://www.511la.org. Additionally, you can follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ http://www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page.

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Northwestern State University reports Spring 2026 enrollment of 7,762 students – 6,913 undergraduates and 849 graduate and professional students – reflecting modest growth over last year across all campuses in Natchitoches, Alexandria, Leesville/Fort Polk, Barksdale AFB and eNSU online.

“These encouraging numbers reflect the university’s personalized approach to assisting students,” said NSU President James Genovese. “This proves we are moving the needle upward at NSU.”

Freshmen retention from Fall 2025 to Spring 2026 tops 87 percent. The freshmen class includes over 1,100 students who enrolled with more than $8 million in scholarships and TOPS awards, with an average ACT of 21.27 and GPA of 3.43 – both up from the previous year, according to Director of Enrollment Van Erikson. Retention of last year’s freshmen class has risen to 70 percent, and Spring first-time entering freshmen jumped almost 40 percent.

Dual enrollment grew to 2,058 students earning college credits applied to both high school and college transcripts. NSU has awarded associate degrees to eligible high school students since 2016.

Adult learner enrollment is also climbing. The number of students 25 or older enrolling as entering freshmen doubled from Spring 2025, with most pursuing general studies, nursing and radiology programs.

NSU students represent 63 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes, 45 states and 47 foreign countries.

Continue your article here…

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In 1957, after years of bit parts in numerous films and television shows, Thomas was cast as Lana Turner’s love interest in the film “Another Time, Another Place.”  In the second week of October 1957, Lana’s boyfriend Johnny Stompanato, a former marine who was a bodyguard and enforcer for mob boss Mickey Cohen, flew from Los Angeles to Cornwall, England, to be with her for the remainder of filming.  For three months, Johnny watched from the sideline as the chemistry between Thomas and Lana grew.  Thomas and Lana played their parts so well for the camera that Johnny became increasingly suspicious and jealous.  Around New Year’s Day 1958, while Lana and Thomas were filming an intimate scene, Johnny’s jealousy could take no more.  He rushed on screen, pointed a pistol at Thomas’s head, and threatened him to stay away from Lana.  In a split-second move, Thomas forcefully disarmed Johnny.  Thomas was aware of Johnny’s underworld connections and knew to expect a reprisal of some sort.   

Lana was not a pushover by any means.  When her marriage to Lex Barker broke down six months earlier, she forced him at gunpoint to leave her home.  Lana had Johnny removed from the film set and contacted police who quickly deported Johnny from England.  He was back in Hollywood by January 4, 1958.  Despite this incident, Lana and Johnny remained on speaking terms.  According to letters between Lana and Johnny, Lana wanted space.  In a letter dated January 15, 1958, Lana wrote to Johnny, “You must let me alone in my own world for a while, to rest, think, rest, think… I need the time and a different place to funnel thru all the emotional turmoil I’ve been through.”  Johnny had no intention of giving her the space she requested.  He wanted to marry.  Johnny wrote to Lana, “Let me prove that you and I belong together.”  In another letter he wrote, “Every second of every day since you have been gone, I’ve thought of nothing but you and your kisses.”  Johnny persuaded Lana’s 14-year-old daughter Cheryl to help convince Lana to marry him.  On a letter dated April 3, 1958, Cheryl wrote to Johnny, “I just got your letter this morning because I was home for the weekend.  How have you been?  …When are you all coming back?  Soon, I Hope.  Mother and I really had a wonderful time in Europe.”  She ended the letter, “Love ya and miss ya loads, Cherie.”  She only had a short time to wait. 

On the following day, April 4, Cheryl and Lana were at their home in Beverly Hills when Johnny stopped by for another attempt at convincing Lana to rekindle their romance and marry him.  Johnny’s sweetness quickly turned to rage when he realized she could not be convinced.  Johnny grabbed Lana and shook here while he cursed and threatened her.  Cheryl heard Johnny yell, “I’ll get you if it takes a day, a week, or a year.  I’ll cut your face up.  I’ll stomp you.  And if I can’t do it myself, I’ll find somebody who will.”  As Johnny continued his tirade over Lana, Cheryl grabbed a 10-inch butcher knife and sank it to the hilt into Johnny’s abdomen.  He died moments later.  Cheryl was not prosecuted because a coroner’s jury deemed the killing a justifiable homicide.  Mob boss Mickey Cohen linked Johnny’s death back to the altercation in which Thomas disarmed Johnny in a move similar to what we would expect to see in a James Bond film.  Well, Thomas eventually became James Bond.  His full name was Thomas Sean Connery.              

 Sources:

1.       San Francisco Chronicle, October 1, 1957, p.25.

2.      Berwick, PA., Enterprise, October 15, 1957, p.4.

3.      The New London, Connecticut Evening Day, January 4, 1948, p.16.

4.      The Akron Beacon Journal, April 5, 1958, p.1.

5.      The Oregonian, April 11, 1958, p.10.

6.      Los Angeles Times, April 12, 1958, p.1.          

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Funeral services for Mrs. Virginia “Toni” Janell Jeannise Copeland will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville. Interment will follow in St. Clair Cemetery, Boyce, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mrs. Copeland, 87, of Gardner, entered eternal rest on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Matthews Memorial Health Care, Alexandria, surrounded by her loving family.

She was a loving mother and grandmother who loved to dance in her younger years. She was also an excellent cook and enjoyed sharing her skills with her family. Her greatest joy came from the love she shared with her friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by two husbands, Fritz Copeland and John Nance; one son, John Floyd; and her parents, Joe and Bessie Jannise.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include three sons, Jeff Floyd (Pam) of Midland, Texas, Joe Floyd (Becky) of Gardner, and Nathan Copeland (Lisa) of Gardner; one daughter, Melissa Herrmann (Jeremy) of Minocqua, Wisconsin; fifteen grandchildren; and twenty-four great grandchildren.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

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Ada Kathleen Bush Paulk, lovingly known as Kathleen or “Kat,” passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 78, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply.

Kathleen was born on August 17, 1947, in Kerrville, Texas, to Ellus and Mary Bush. From an early age, she had a curious mind and a love for learning that never faded. After graduating from Sam Houston High School, she earned a degree in English from Louisiana College-just the beginning of a lifetime spent teaching, learning, and encouraging others to do the same.

Kathleen devoted most of her career to the Rapides Parish School System, where she touched the lives of countless students. She went on to earn her Master’s Plus 30, often saying that you “never stopped learning.” Her dedication to education continued through her work as a Warrant Officer with the Youth Challenge Program and later as an Assessment Teacher for Avoyelles Parish. Even after retiring, Kathleen wasn’t one to slow down-she continued preparing tax returns for many years, simply because helping people was part of who she was.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 59 years, Kirby Paulk; her youngest daughter, Kamii Dauzat; and her brother, Jerome Bush.

She leaves behind a family who adored her: her sons, Kurtis Paulk of Pineville and Kerry Paulk (Donna) of Deville; and her daughter, Kristina Hickman (Dennis) of Hickory Grove. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren-Chelsea Bass (Robert), CJ Dauzat (Ashley), Sam Dyer (Joe), Denni Bickford (Zach), Kaleb Paulk, Gabrielle Paulk, Sidney Paulk, Tiffany Paulk, Sarah Wiggins (Bammer), and Melinda Wilson (Gregory)-and a joyful great-grandmother to twenty-seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Irene Sullivan (James) and Darlene Tucker (Rick), along with many extended family members, and friends who felt like family.

Kathleen had a way of making people feel cared for. She loved baking and could often be found in the kitchen making something special “just because.” Arts and crafts brought her endless joy, as did decorating her home with beautifully themed rooms-each one filled with her personality. Her Wizard of Oz collection was one of her greatest delights.

Some of her happiest moments were spent watching birds, tending her garden, and taking her grandchildren on adventures. She loved their field trips and often joked about how “bad they were,” fully aware that she may have encouraged a little mischief herself. One favorite family tradition was “experiment night,” when she tried a new recipe each week-some became staples, and others became treasured stories told with laughter.

Kathleen was incredibly proud of the books she authored: The Story Goes, documenting her family’s genealogy, and A Time to Remember: A Hundred Years of Service (Holloway Baptist Church). These works, which can also be found on YouTube, reflect her deep love for family, faith, and history.

Above all else, Kathleen cared about people. She paid attention to those who needed help and quietly found ways to give it. She had a special love for sending and receiving cards through the mail, believing that a handwritten note could brighten anyone’s day. Her kindness, humor, and generous spirit will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

She attended Holloway Baptist Church in Hickory Grove, LA, and the family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be sent in her memory to Holloway Baptist Church WMU, 7368 Hickory Grove Road, Deville, LA 71328.

Visitation will be held on February 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m., at Holloway Baptist Church, Hickory Grove.

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Rapides Parish was among several central Louisiana parishes impacted by a wide-ranging federal drug trafficking investigation that has led to the indictment of 11 individuals accused of conspiring to distribute large quantities of illegal narcotics.

The investigation, which began in late fall 2024, was initiated by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and expanded to include multiple parish sheriff’s offices, district attorneys, and federal agencies. Rapides Parish authorities were involved as the investigation identified distribution routes and criminal activity affecting communities beyond parish boundaries.

Federal prosecutors said the drug trafficking organization moved methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl into central Louisiana, contributing to drug-related crime and overdoses across multiple parishes. Search warrants executed during the investigation resulted in the seizure of narcotics, cash, and other assets tied to the operation.

On Jan. 21, 2026, a federal grand jury in Lafayette returned a 12-count indictment charging 11 individuals with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. The indictment further alleges the possession of more than 2,000 fentanyl pills intended for distribution and the use of cell phone communication facilities to facilitate the operation.

All defendants have been arrested and are currently being held in federal custody.

The individuals indicted are:

Detrail Harris
Kameron Harris
Barry Pearson
Frank Coleman Jr.
Earl Thompson, also known as Nook
Michael Womack
Sevesta Sweet
Charles Jackson
Andrew Bulloch
Craig Hopkins
Buford Sawyer, also known as Dog Pound

Federal officials stressed that the charges are accusations only and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The case is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana under docket number 26-CR-27. Authorities indicated the investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues to target drug trafficking organizations impacting Rapides Parish and the surrounding region.

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By JIM BUTLER

The Alexandria City Council Legal Committee will hear Tuesday afternoon from the Roy administration its goals with state legislation this year.

Notice of intent to file bills in the session beginning in March has been published, essentially by title only as is customary. 

One is relative to public safety operation and protection zones surrounding designated community events in the city. 

Such events in communities across the country are more and more often becoming venues for violence. 

Another measure, according to posted legal notice, is relative to administrative adjudication of certain code and ordinance violations. 

It would provide definitions for certain violations and provide relative to types of violations subject to administrative adjudication procedures and related matters. 

The current city fiscal year budget incorporates an Administrative Hearing Bureau to hear cases alleging code violations relative to abandoned or blighted property, public health, housing, fire prevention and the environment. 

The committee, Malcolm Larvadain chair, Lizzie Felter and Chuck Fowler, meets at 4 p.m.  A full Council meeting begins at 5.

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The Rapides Parish School Board announces the reconfiguration of Lessie Moore Elementary School and Pineville Elementary School to serve students in Pre-K through sixth grade. The Board approved the reconfiguration last fall and the subsequent rezoning at its February meeting held earlier this week.

For the 2026-2027 school year, Lessie Moore Elementary will transition to a Pre-K-6th grade campus, and Pineville Elementary will also transition to a Pre-K-6th grade campus.

Transportation will be provided to all students.

Educational research consistently demonstrates that keeping students on the same campus throughout their elementary years produces significant benefits. Studies show children perform at higher levels when there is continuity of instruction, particularly in elementary school, according to research from MIT Press1. By limited school transitions in the elementary grades, our students will have more consistent opportunities for academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular success.

This reconfiguration also helps the district better monitor academic performance and provide learning interventions earlier.

“This reconfiguration creates the kind of campus continuity that benefits students academically and socially,” said Superintendent Jeff Powell. “Administrators and teachers will be able to more closely monitor progress and will have an opportunity to build strong relationships with students and families that will also lead to a strong school culture over the course of a student’s elementary journey.”

Additional information about the reconfigurations will be shared directly with families in the coming months.

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