New LSU Alexandria chancellor will need her hard hat

Incoming LSUA chancellor Dr. Elizabeth Beard

By JIM BUTLER

Chancellor-designate Dr. Elizabeth Beard best hang on to her hard hat as she changes offices at LSU Alexandria. 

Several construction projects will be getting under way about the time she officially succeeds Dr. Paul Coreil on July 1. 

Bids for the first of them are scheduled Tuesday, when offers for construction of a baseball/softball field house (locker rooms, etc.) for the Generals will be received. Estimated cost: $900,000. 

The top-ranked distaff Generals are competing today at LCU, Pineville, for their conference championship.

On May 19 the university plans bid receipt on construction of tennis courts and pickleball courts. Estimated cost: $900,000. 

The school last June closed its golf course, making way for much-needed student housing. 

On May 28 bids will be accepted for renovations to historic Oakland Hall, with $500,000 earmarked. 

Its claim to fame is two-fold: 

Oakland was the first new permanent building constructed on the campus. Classes began in September 1960, Oakland’s construction in February 1961. 

The structure was also the first building in Louisiana using the lift slab post tension method. 

Floors and a roof of concrete were poured and cured at ground level, then lifted into place. 

On June 2, according to posted notice, the university will open bids for installation of a campus-wide direct digital HVAC control system. Estimated cost: $850,000. 

Two days later offers for renovations to the A.C. Buchanan Building, a key piece of the university’s allied health center on Jackson Street in downtown Alexandria, are due. The overall project will cost more than $30 million.


Pineville water system earns top grade from Louisiana Department of Health

The City of Pineville announced that its water system has received an upgraded grade of A from the Louisiana Department of Health for 2025, improving from a C rating in 2024.

City officials said the top rating reflects continued efforts to enhance water quality, infrastructure and overall system operations.

The city credited its Water Department for the improvement and noted that ongoing investments and community support have played a role in achieving the higher grade.

Officials say the upgrade highlights Pineville’s commitment to maintaining safe and reliable water services for residents.


Runaway bass boat spotted on Pineville roadway amid rainy conditions

A bass boat traveling without a driver was spotted moving down a roadway in Pineville on May 1, according to the Pineville Police Department.

An officer encountered the unusual scene while on patrol, observing the boat “cruising” along the road by itself. Authorities shared the incident in a lighthearted social media post.

While no additional details were released about how the boat became detached or whether any damage occurred, officials used the moment to remind residents to remain cautious during wet weather conditions.


AMoA’s 2026 Dragon Boat Races – A fun community tradition continues

Pineville’s picturesque Lake Buhlow was the scene of intense nautical competition as 22 teams from area businesses, hospitals, colleges, high schools and churches spent May 2 vying for bragging rights at the Annual Dragon Boat races sponsored by the Alexandria Museum of Art. This popular event, first held in 2010, has rapidly become an area-wide favorite, growing each year.

Dragon Boat Races are a competition in which teams of paddlers, often in themed costumes, race their boats to the beat of a drummer. Each boat has a dragon head at the prow. On the morning of the race, each team paints the eyes of their boat’s dragon in order to awaken it.

The Dragon Boat Races are a true community effort. The Museum’s staff was assisted by a contingent of community volunteers, including a group of 12 sharp cadets from the Louisiana Army National Guard’s Youth Challenge. This year also marked another first, as the “Rowing Rebels” of Pineville High School joined Alexandria Senior High’s Marine Corps JROTC and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. 

While the Dragon Boat Races are quite a bit of fun, the event has a serious purpose. It is the signature fundraiser for the Alexandria Museum of Art. This year’s race is expected to bring in over $25,000.00 to help fund the museum’s operations. The Alexandria Museum of Art is an integral part of Central Louisiana’s cultural and educational scene and one of the many things that make our city special.


Riverfete – food, fun, music, and community spirit come to downtown

Downtown Alexandria’s Riverfete was the place to be for family fun April 30 – May 2. The popular free admission event, an eagerly awaited local tradition since 2013, drew tens of thousands of visitors to Alexandria’s welcoming downtown.

The festival featured an eclectic blend of vendors, food trucks, and bands divided into several areas. Bands entertained festival goers on Friday and Saturday with something for every taste. The festivities began with Thursday’s “Dinner on the Bricks” featuring local restaurants serving tastings of their best fare.

The quirky Indie Village welcomed one and all with everything from gourmet coffee to art and music. “Que’in on the Red,” a BBQ competition in its 3rd year as part of Riverfete, filled the area with mouthwatering aromas as 35 chefs from as far away as Alabama competed for top honors. Classic car aficionados could enjoy the many beautiful cars on display in the “Classic Car Fete.” The younger set had their own area, “Kid’s Fete,” where they could play to their heart’s content. This year’s event brought back a crowd favorite, a huge Ferris wheel, the top of which offered riders a spectacular view of the riverfront. Our local Humane Society returned for the second year with its Adopt-a- Pet Fête, uniting dogs with their forever homes.

Riverfete is terrific fun and a superb example of what can happen when a community comes together to do something special. The annual Riverfete is one of the many things that make life in Louisiana wonderfully flavorful and unique.


Pineville softball crushes its way to state championship

Pineville’s offensive onslaught in the state semifinals and finals in Sulphur produced 25 runs and 27 hits on the way to the Select Division I state championship. (Photo by STEVEN MOODY, GeauxPreps.com)

By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

The Pineville softball team left no doubts. The Lady Rebels dominated the LHSAA state tournament in Sulphur Saturday and Sunday like few, if any, teams ever have and brought home the Select Division I state championship in resounding fashion.

The championship game was a 12-1 romp over fourth-seeded John Curtis, who had upset No. 1-ranked Mount Carmel 2-1 in the semifinals. Pineville’s semifinal win Saturday was 13-1 over third-seeded Archbishop Chapelle.

Add in the Lady Rebels’ other two playoff victories and Pineville (29-9) outscored its postseason opponents 52-5, run-ruling all four, scoring at least 12 runs each game. The Lady Rebels finished on a 12-game winning streak.

“It was about midseason when I realized we could really make a run with this team,” said coach Allison Frye, a former Pineville player 20 years ago. “We have a lot of young players. Our seniors are very passionate about it and worked very hard to get everyone to buy in, and it took a little while. I’ve been telling them, I don’t know how many times this season, ‘we’re right where we need to be,’ and today, if not a little bit before today, they believe me.”

“Going into today, we were confident,” said tournament Most Outstanding Player Ava Moore. “We were very confident. We knew that every person on this team, we all have each other’s backs, that if we make a mistake, the other 21 are there to back us up.”

On state softball’s biggest high school stage at North Frasch Softball Complex in Sulphur, in the final two games of the championship season, Pineville roared out of the gate.

Saturday, it was a 5-0 lead after two innings with an eight-run fourth inning putting the hammer down on Archbishop Chapelle – who had eliminated last year’s top-seeded Lady Rebels in a bitter quarterfinal loss in Pineville. This time, the Lady Rebs rapped 15 hits including two home runs each by Jadin Basco and Aniyah Jackson.

Sunday, Pineville also opened a 5-0 lead, after three innings, going up 2-0 in the first on a two-run double by Moore. Basco went deep with a three-run missile in the third inning.

The Sunday drubbing continued as the spread continued to grow, to 8-0, thanks in no small part to Briley Byrnes, whose sizzling-hot bat ignited outbursts both days. She went 7-for-7 with four doubles, scoring seven times, in the semis and finals.

Moore’s bat set off the championship celebration in the sixth inning. With the bases loaded, she drilled a shot to centerfield that was just too far for the Curtis outfielder to hold as it dropped over the fence to end the game on the run rule.

Almost overlooked due to the offensive fireworks by the Lady Rebs was the pitching of Chelsie Simpson and superior defense in both wins.

“I played for Pineville in the early 2000s and I never got this feeling. There’s so many girls that paved the way. They (this year’s players) don’t realize (yet) how big a deal this is to our community, to past players, who everyone who has bought into this program for a long time,” said Frye.

The triumph gave the Lady Rebels their eighth state crown. It was the first Pineville softball state title since capturing a third in a row in 1998, and Sunday marked the program’s first state championship game appearance since 2008.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Three parish teams move forward in baseball playoffs; ASH ousted

Top-seeded Brother Martin blanked Alexandria Senior High twice to capture a Select Division I quarterfinal baseball playoff series in New Orleans, but three rural Rapides Parish teams moved forward into the quarterfinals in their classifications by winning Saturday.

Baseball playoff results, schedule

Select Division I quarterfinal series

Brother Martin 10, ASH 0 (Game 1)

Brother Martin 7, ASH 0 (Game 2), Brother Martin advances

Class B (regional round, single-elimination)

Glenmora 12, Fairview 0

Grace Christian 7, Lacassine 1

Class C (regional round, single-elimination)

Plainview 12, Calvin 5

This week’s state quarterfinal games

Family Community (6) at Grace Christian (3), Friday, 6:30

Stanley (10) at Glenmora (2), TBA

Plainview (7) at Family Christian (2), Friday, 4:00


Pineville police seek help identifying individual in Smithville/College Park incidents

As of: May 4, 2026; 3:00am

The Pineville Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying an individual involved in a series of incidents reported in the Smithville/College Park area.

According to authorities, the individual has repeatedly trespassed on private property over the past week and engaged in unlawful behavior. The property owner had placed a sign requesting the person stay off the premises.

Police say the situation escalated when the individual returned, defecated on the property again and then set the sign on fire.

Officials say they are actively working to identify the person involved and are asking anyone with information to contact the department or submit a tip through a private message.

Authorities also thanked the community for its continued support in helping maintain neighborhood safety.


Alexandria woman charged with non-negligent manslaughter

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

May 3

James Cleveland Cramer, 47, Deville – domestic abuse strangulation, domestic abuse battery, no bail data;

Jawaun Oshay Ellis, 24, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal possession of stolen firearm, open container, $50,600 bail;

Breana Renea Harrison, 24, Shreveport – OWI first offense, open container, improper lane usage, two counts contempt of court, $5,200 bail;

Larry Donnell Jenkins, 70, Alexandria – DWI second offense, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, no evidence of insurance, improper headlight equipment, $1,055 bail;

Erin Elizabeth Matuu, 32, Pineville – domestic abuse battery serious injury, no bail data;

Lindsie Michelle Moras, 23, Marksville – OWI second offense, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, speeding, improper lane usage, $2,200 bail;

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

Devante Tyrese Smith, 26, Alexandria – OWI first offense, headlamps required, illegal possession of stolen firearm, $1,100 bail.

May 2

Erick Dustin Love, 38, Alexandria – identity theft, no bail data;

Richard Carrol Pennington Jr, 75, Pollock – operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, $500 bail;

Joseph Scott Pentz, 50, Deville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, expired MVI sticker, open container, $1,300 bail;

Bobby Joe Roberts, 72, Alexandria – possession of CDS, driving under suspension, possession of marijuana, safety belt violation, $2,200 bail;

Arthur Dewayne Spikes, 37, Alexandria – identity theft, no bail data;

Jamie Dewayne Troquile, 40, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, contempt of court, probation violation, Louisiana fugitive, $3,000 bail.

May 1

Alexis Mae Barton, 28, Pineville – OWI second offense, hand signal lamps, $1,600 bail;

Casey Alan Berlin, 43, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, $50,000 bail;

Charles Brown, 32, Cheneyville – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, three counts contempt of court, $28,000 bail;

Stormy Nicole Cofer, 33, Alexandria – second degree murder or non-negligent manslaughter, $100,000 bail;

Robert Eugene Doherty, 38, Boyce – aggravated strangulation, domestic battery abuse, probation violation, $10,000 bail;

Corey Paul Gagnard, 39, Boyce – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Unique Jalia Griffin, 25, Alexandria – child desertion, criminal damage to property, four counts contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Lacee Nichole Holliday, 38, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Jammi Jhaderius Jefferson, 21, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, two counts remaining on premises, $25,000 bail;

Jacob Scott Powell, 35, Lake Charles – OWI first offense, improper driving on left, open container, $1,200 bail;

Adam Wayne Thomas, 40, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $4,000 bail;

Dustin Aulbrey Wages, 41, Pineville – three counts creating distributing possession counterfeit CDS, $30,000 bail.

April 30

Anqaunette Lashay Barkin, 36, Boyce – theft, criminal conspiracy, five counts contempt of court, $13,500 bail;

Freddie JaeDeVante Burnett, 33, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, two counts illegal possession of stolen things, illegal carry firearm with drugs, three counts contempt of court, $49,000 bail;

Tonya Buxton, 33, Breaux Bridge – criminal damage to property, Louisiana fugitive, contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Leona Anna Chumley, 46, Lecompte – theft, money laundering, fraud (access device), $3,000 bail;

Sheri Lynn Daniels, 47, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Javon Allen Ford, 22, Alexandria – aggravated arson, $10,000 bail;

Tina Marie Gagnard, 60, Alexandria – theft, five counts contempt of court, $16,500 bail;

Harold Dwayne Henry, 43, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, resisting an officer, obscenity, $11,000 bail;

Angela Deonne Howard, 39, Alexandria – theft, three counts contempt of court, $60,500 bail;

Krysten Noelle Lamkin, 31, Pineville – two counts contempt of court, $200,000 bail;

Jawohn Michael Lindstrom, 23, Alexandria – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, $100,000 bail;

Beverly Darlene Outlaw, 42, Ball – theft, criminal conspiracy, simple escape, $50,000 bail;

Elizabeth J. Phillips, 43, Pineville – possession of CDS, Louisiana fugitive, obstruction of justice, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, probation violation, improper headlight equipment, $16,500 bail;

Connie Rene Sullivan, 54, Palm Coast, Fla. – unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, criminal trespass, criminal conspiracy, $10,500 bail;

Trinehia Matrice Triplett, 27, Pineville – five counts contempt of court, $85,000 bail;

Frank Allen White, 61, Pineville – possession of CDS, parole violations, $1,500 bail.

April 29

Michael Ahmod Freeman, 33, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, hit and run, careless operation, open container, improper display of license plate, no insurance, contempt of court, $100,900 bail;

Teshawn Darnell Jackson, 35, Alexandria – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

Willie Jenkins Jr., 70, Bossier City – two counts theft, $5,500 bail;

Dianna Demetria Smith, 46, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, theft, $7,500 bail;

Dominique De’vante Smith, 31, Alexandria – false imprisonment, domestic abuse battery, $50,500 bail.


Remembering Natalie Cecilia Fields Phillips

Natalie Cecilia Fields Phillips, 66, passed away on April 8, 2026, in her adopted home state of Louisiana. Born on January 16, 1960, in San Diego, California, she was the beloved daughter of Sarah L. Fields and the late Amos R. Fields. Natalie pursued her education with determination and passion, earning degrees from Vassar College in New York, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, The University of Southern Mississippi, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

She began her professional journey as an entrepreneur before answering a higher calling in medicine. Natalie became a family medicine physician and later an emergency room doctor, dedicating her life to caring for others in their most vulnerable moments. Her compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment to helping others left a lasting impact on countless patients, families, and colleagues. Natalie was known for her vibrant spirit—outgoing, loving, and truly larger than life despite her smaller stature. She had a way of filling every room with warmth, energy, and laughter, building deep and meaningful connections with everyone she encountered. She often referred to herself as “the keeper of memories.” If you knew her, you understand exactly what that meant—and you were likely one of those cherished memories.

As much as she loved her bunnies, nothing compared to the fierce and unwavering love she had for her family. She took immense pride in their lives and accomplishments. Natalie shared a loving marriage with her husband, Larry Phillips. Together for 45 years, they built a life centered on love, family, and commitment, raising three sons and creating a legacy that will continue for generations. Natalie will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her. Her legacy of compassion, strength, and joy will live on through the many lives she touched.

Natalie is survived by her husband, Larry Phillips; her mother, Sarah Louise Fields; her three sisters, Donna Kerr, Kathy Fields-Iwatate (Maurice Graves), and Valarie Fields Ervin; her three sons, Kyle Phillips, Blair Phillips (Lionette Phillips), and Justin Phillips (Sarah Ravani); her cherished grandchildren, Solomon Phillips, Sarai Phillips, DeShaun Phillips, Kaiya Phillips, Marley Phillips, Amir Phillips, and Kiana Phillips; her nieces, Courtney Butler (Dwight Butler), Sade Bias, and Kyla Ervin; her nephews, Kaulin Ervin (Carolina Ervin), Kalib Ervin, Chandler Iwatate, and LJ Bias; and her great-nieces and great-nephews, Nadia Butler, Alyssa Butler, Devin Ervin, Jordan Ervin, and Kayden Ervin. She was preceded in death by her father, Amos R. Fields.

A visitation will be held on May 9, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Winnfield Funeral Home in Alexandria, Louisiana.


Remembering Susan Pace Seeling

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Susan Pace Seeling, a beloved mother, educator, and cherished friend, who left us on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born on December 20, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Susan spent her early childhood in Scotland, where her love for travel and foreign cultures began to flourish. This passion led her to pursue postgraduate studies in Mexico City, Quebec, and Mons, Belgium, enriching her personal and professional life.

Graveside services for Susan will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville with Reverend Kennon Pickett officiating, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

Susan dedicated 45 years of her life to education, inspiring countless students as she taught English, French, and Spanish. Her career included positions at various esteemed institutions such as Tioga High School, LSUA, LSMSA, NSU, and Alexandria Country Day, where she shaped young minds with her enthusiasm and innovative teaching methods. A pioneer in the use of language immersion, she cultivated an environment that fostered a genuine love for learning. Even after her official retirement in 2010, Susan continued to make an impact as a part-time substitute through 2020 for the Rapides Parish School Board and Holy Savior Menard High School, sharing her vast knowledge and passion for education well into her later years.

A member of the First United Methodist Church, Susan found joy in her faith and community. Beyond the classroom, she had a passion for horseback riding, and had a special fondness for fast cars, proudly driving her Toyota Supra.

Susan was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, cherished by her family and friends. Remembering countless memories of love, laughter, and adventure.

She was preceded in death by the father of her children, LTC William F. Pace; parents, William and Bonnie Corrine Pace, and sister, Carolyn Pace Shine.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Michael Seeling, and John Brian Seeling (Ashley); brother, Billy Pace (Sandy); grandchildren, Alexander, Jacob, John David, Meredith, Marilyn, William, Vivian, and Scott; great-granddaughter, Evelyn, and numerous other family and friends.


Word of the Day: Ephemeral

Phonetic: /ephem·​er·​al/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

  • lasting a very short time
    ephemeral pleasures
    Their fame turned out to be ephemeral.

  • lasting one day only
    an ephemeral fever

  • devoted to what is of temporary interest
    the ephemeral nature of journalism – Evelyn Toynton

Notice of Death – May 3, 2026

Vera Lemoine Davis
May 16, 1946 – April 30, 2026
Service: Monday, May 4, 2026, 11:30am at Philadelphia Baptist Church, Deville

Susan Pace Seeling
December 20, 1944 – April 30, 2026
Service: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 2pm at Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville.

William Darryl Maupin
January 18, 1948 – April 28, 2026
Service: Monday, May 4, 2026, 1pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Phillip Milton Soileau
March 30, 1968 – April 24, 2026
Service: Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 5pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Concetta Sotile Fiorenza
July 21, 1924 – March 11, 2026
Service: Friday, May 15, 2026, 10am at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

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!


Louisiana U.S. House Elections Suspended; Early Voting for Local Races May 2-9

BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry announced Thursday that upcoming U.S. House of Representatives races have been suspended following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

The court ruled Wednesday that Louisiana’s current congressional district maps constitute an unconstitutional gerrymander, and using them in the upcoming elections would violate the law.

Landry has certified the emergency under state law, a mandatory step before the governor issues an executive order to officially suspend the House races.

Despite the suspension of the congressional contests, all other races on the ballot will proceed as scheduledEarly voting for those remaining races will take place as scheduled from May 2-9.

“Our office will post notices at each of the early voting sites to alert the public of this change,” Landry said“While the U.S. House races will remain on voters’ ballots, any votes cast in those races will not be counted”.

The general election remains set for May 16.


SAVE THE DATE: Louisiana Central to Host Regional Mini Summit

Louisiana Central has announced a four-hour Mini Summit designed to align education, workforce development, and economic growth in the region.

The event comes as the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) marks its 100th anniversary in 2026. The summit aims to create intentional pathways from education to employment to fuel long-term prosperity and economic growth in Central Louisiana.

The experience will feature nationally recognized speaker Mark C. Perna and IEDC President & CEO Nathan Ohle. Together, they will lead a “call to action” to spark new ideas and build meaningful partnerships among regional leaders in business, education, and the community.

The free, innovative summit will cover critical topics including:

  • The Changing Landscape: The implications of the modern world on students, parents, and employers.

  • The Smart Machine Age: Analyzing the impact of AI and automation on employment over the next 20 years.

  • Closing the Gaps: Addressing skill and awareness gaps to connect education and workforce pipelines.

  • The “Why” Generation: Understanding the decision-making process of today’s young people to build a stronger community foundation.

  • Education with Purpose: Shifting toward active purpose through certifications, apprenticeships, and degree programs.

  • Setting a Universal Rally Point: Creating a shared vision to break down silos and build a regional competitive advantage.

Community members, educators, and business leaders are encouraged to join the momentum and help shape the future of the region.

Registration for this event is free. To learn more and RSVP, visit www.rallycenla.com.


Rapides Parish installs new trash receptacles at Buckeye Recreation Park through state grant

The Rapides Parish Police Jury announced the installation of five new trash receptacles at Buckeye Recreation Park as part of an effort to improve cleanliness and public spaces.

The receptacles were funded through the Keep Louisiana Beautiful Trash Receptacle Grant, which is supported by the State of Louisiana and the Office of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.

Officials said the additions are intended to enhance the park environment and encourage proper waste disposal among visitors.


Alexandria International Airport surges into summer with passenger growth, expanded service

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) is preparing for a busy summer travel season following a surge in passenger traffic. In March, the airport recorded a four-year high in commercial enplanements, with 18,372 passengers boarding flights, reflecting strong demand for regional air travel.

The airport is also preparing for the return of service from United Airlines on May 21, with twice-daily flights to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston. The flights will be operated by SkyWest Airlines and are currently open for booking. The addition complements existing service from American Airlines to Dallas and Delta Air Lines to Atlanta, providing Central Louisiana travelers with expanded access to domestic and international destinations.

Airport officials say the added Houston route strengthens connectivity through one of the nation’s largest hubs ahead of the peak summer travel season.

In addition to expanded flight options, travelers will see changes to parking at AEX with the introduction of Metropolis, a ticketless parking system designed to streamline entry and exit using automated technology. Special parking accommodations are available for eligible active duty and retired military personnel traveling on official orders, as well as disabled veterans.

Ralph Hennessy, executive director of England Airpark and AEX, said the increase in passenger traffic highlights continued support from local travelers and noted that the return of United Airlines and parking upgrades are aimed at improving the overall travel experience.

With projections indicating a busy summer travel period nationwide, airport officials are encouraging passengers to plan ahead. Suggested travel tips include booking early flights for better on-time performance, checking flight status through airline apps, registering for parking in advance, arriving at least 90 minutes before departure, and packing essential items in carry-on luggage.

More information on flight schedules and parking registration is available at flyaex.org.


Junior League of Alexandria hosts Empowerment Breakfast honoring educators, students and community leaders

The Junior League of Alexandria hosted its annual Empowerment Breakfast on April 28, recognizing educators, students and community members for their contributions and impact across Central Louisiana.

During the event, multiple Teacher Mini Grants were awarded to educators representing schools throughout the region, highlighting ongoing efforts to support classroom innovation and student success.

Several local students were also recognized as scholarship recipients, representing a variety of area high schools and academic achievements.

In addition, community members were named as semi-finalists for the Spirit of Sara Simmonds Award, which honors individuals making a meaningful difference through service and leadership.

The event concluded with the announcement of this year’s Spirit of Sara Simmonds Award recipient, recognizing outstanding dedication and impact within the community.

Organizers described the breakfast as a celebration of excellence, service and the continued commitment to strengthening the region through education and leadership.


Yielding to stormy forecast, LHSAA delays Pineville’s state tourney debut by a day

ON GO:  The Pineville softball team hopes to continue running the bases like it did in last Friday’s quarterfinal rout of Tioga. (Journal photo by KEVIN SHANNAHAN)

Anticipating bad weather in southwest Louisiana today, the LHSAA has decided to push back the state softball semifinals and finals in Sulphur to a Saturday-Sunday schedule.

Second-seeded Pineville takes Field 15 at the North Frasch Softball Complex at 2:30 Saturday in a Select Division I semifinal against third-seeded Archbishop Chapelle.

Pineville blasted Tioga 14-0 in a quarterfinal game last Friday, after beating Captain Shreve 13-3 in the regional round. Chapelle edged St. Thomas More 6-5 in the quarterfinals following a 10-0 romp over Evangel in the regional round.

In the other semifinal, also at 2:30 Saturday, fourth-seeded John Curtis takes on No. 1 Mount Carmel, which squeaked by Pineville’s District 2-5A rival ASH by 3-2 last week in the quarterfinals.

The championship game is Sunday at noon on Field 14.