Alexandria announces return of ‘Party in the Park’ summer event series

The City of Alexandria’s Division of Community Services is once again hosting its “Party in the Park” summer event series, offering free family-friendly activities throughout June.

The events will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature water slides, music, activities and free food while supplies last.

The first event is scheduled for Friday, June 5, at Martin Park, located at 4222 Ellis Street.

The second event will be held Friday, June 12, at Acadian (West) Sandy Bayou, located at 5199 W. Sandy Bayou Drive.

A third event is planned for Thursday, June 18, though the location has not yet been announced.

City officials said the events are designed to give families a fun and safe way to celebrate the start of summer together while connecting with the community.

There is no cost to attend.


Remembering Keith Durgin

Mr. Keith Durgin, age 72 entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at his home surrounded by love.

Private services will be scheduled at a later date.

Keith served in the United States Air Force, where he retired and he continued to love his country as a patriotic veteran. He came to know the Lord and was often found reading his Bible. He loved gardening, wood cutting, football and had a passionate appetite for good food.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his devoted wife of 27 years Darla Blodgett Durgin, his stepson, Daniel Evans and wife, Erica, Garth Evans, Sarah Gonzalez and husband Victor, grandchildren Grayson, Kylie, Everly, Asher, Charity, Priscilla Pollock and beloved friend of the family, Miss Linda Wise. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Rebecca William and husband Pat, Ruth Basco, and husband Darrell, Debbie Henson, and Pat Blodgett and wife Julia.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents.

Keith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him and his smile, laughter, tenderness, patience and unselfish and unconditional love will echo on as his story.


Remembering Dashton Poole

With heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of our beloved Dashton Poole, who left us on Saturday, May 23, 2026. He was born on January 10, 2021. Though his time with us was all too brief, Dashton brought immense joy and love to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. His infectious laughter and radiant spirit filled our lives with warmth, and he will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Dashton’s light shone brightly during his short time here, reminding us of the beauty in innocence and the profound impact a young soul can have. His giggles and curious little ways will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to witness them. Dashton has a love for fire trucks, police officers, and clowns; he always said that when he was grown, he would be one of them. He was very smart and observant.

We invite family and friends to join us in celebrating Dashton’s life and cherishing the memories he gifted us. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 29, 2026, in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Pineville, with Reverend Todd Taylor officiating. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

The family requests that visitation be observed at the funeral home on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and will continue on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, Brandon Jarreau.

Those left to cherish his memory include his mother, Cassie Poole; father, Joshua Daniels; brother, Layden Quarles; sisters, Zanadee Havis, Kaliah Quarles; paternal grandparents, Cindy Monceaux (Michael); maternal grandmother, Lisa Vaughn; great-grandmother, Shirley Poole; uncles, Evan Daniels, Taylon Jarreau, and Destin Duke; aunts, Summer Jarreau, and Peyton Jarreau; extended family, Ashley St. Romain (Rodney), the other two Musketeers Rodney III “Poppa”, and Weston “Fat Fat”; and special friend, Kaitlin Dorn.

In loving memory of Dashton Poole, may we find comfort knowing his spirit will forever shine brightly in our hearts. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for our family during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, P.O. Box 8555, Alexandria, Louisiana 71306, to help defray the cost of services.


Robbery, weapon, drug charges compile six-figure bail for Alexandria man

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

May 27

Hollie Ann Brooks, 31, Pineville – three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, simple escape, $77,500 bail;

Joseph Wayne Craig, 46, Colfax – domestic abuse battery with child present, no bail data;

Dontravion Demon Dixon, 20, Alexandria – illegal possession of stolen firearm, manufacture/possession of machine guns, speeding, driver’s license not in possession, $200 bail;

Donald Wayne Foster, 26, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, manufacture/possession of machine guns, $153,500 bail;

Trinity Alexis Grant, 18, Alexandria – OWI first offense, three counts vehicular negligent injuring, three counts contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, possession of alcohol by minor, reckless operation of a vehicle, safety belt violation, no driver’s license, running a stop sign, $5,300 bail;

Terrance Tyrell Hamilton, 36, Alexandria – aggravated robbery, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $150,000 bail;

Keltric Keonn King, 28, Alexandria – possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, illegal carry firearm with drugs, resisting an officer, possession of a firearm by convicted felon, probation violation, two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Cameron Shiloh Miller, 32, Pineville – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, aggravated battery of a police officer, resisting an officer, $6,500 bail;

Kenrell Deshun Simmons, 47, Alexandria – simple battery, six counts contempt of court, $12,500 bail.

May 26

Charles Edward Atherton, 46, Pineville – possession of CDS, driving under suspension, possession of drug paraphernalia, modified exhaust, contempt of court, $7,200 bail;

Miguel Castro, 41, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, $3,000 bail;

Karen Elizabeth Franklin, 61, Pineville – OWI first offense, $500 bail;

Kerry Renea Haas, 47, Alexandria – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, probation violation, $1,000 bail;

Curtis Ray Hawn, 62, Boyce – domestic abuse battery serious injury, two counts contempt of court, $7,000 bail;

Thomas Randell Helverson, 59, Ruby – four counts contempt of court, $40,000 bail;

Jeremy Joseph Hurts, 39, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal conspiracy, $1.1 million bail;

Derrick Dewayne Moore Jr., 29, Pineville – Louisiana fugitive, aggravated assault, $5,000 bail;

Donald Smith, 41, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, six counts contempt of court, $23,000 bail;

Kaleigh Michelle Tucker, 20, Deville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail.

May 25

Mekahia Meshea Brooks, 29, Alexandria, aggravated assault upon peace officer, battery on officer, interfering with law enforcement investigation, three counts resisting an officer with force or violence, $3,500 bail;

Thomas Cole Brunson, 40, Pineville – domestic abuse battery with child present, $5,000 bail;

Marcy Thomas Couteter, 50, Ball – two counts simple burglary, legend drug possession, two counts contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Cartez Demon Dotson, 38, Pineville – two counts possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $110,000 bail;

Russell Henry Sheppard Jr., 47, Pineville – theft, $1,000 bail;

Jordan Rashad Washington, 36, Alexandria – theft, simple battery, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, $2,500 bail.


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Notice of Death – May 27, 2026

Barbara June Morris Canoe
May 29, 1950 – May 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 7pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Timothy Brent Guillory
July 19, 1965 – May 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 12pm at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Echo.

Margaret DiStefano LaCombe
December 3, 1953 – May 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria. 

Betty Louise Garner Roshto
May 7, 1949 – May 24, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Joyce Lynn Verzywvelt DeKeyzer
January 10, 1936 – May 23, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Boyce.

Dashton Lux Poole
January 10, 2021 – May 23, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 1pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mary “Beth” Williams
July 25, 1954 – May 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Theresa Louise Massey
February 7, 1961 – May 22, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 11am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Norma Seidl Reed
July 22, 1940 – May 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 6, 2026, 10am at Pineville Christian Church, Pineville. 

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

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. 


Cleco to power planned Rapides Parish data center

Cleco will provide power to a new data center being developed by Applied Digital in Rapides Parish, the company confirmed Wednesday.

Gov. Jeff Landry officially announced the project Tuesday during an Alexandria press conference held in partnership with Louisiana Economic Development and Louisiana Central.

“The data center project will be transformative for Rapides Parish and our customers,” said Bill Fontenot, president and CEO of Cleco. “As a company, we welcome Applied Digital and look forward to meeting their needs for safe and reliable energy for years to come.”

According to Applied Digital and economic development experts, the project is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs during construction and another 200 long-term positions, while stimulating additional opportunities for existing local businesses.

“The number of jobs generated by this project is significant for central Louisiana, and it aligns with our priorities to foster business growth locally and throughout the state,” Fontenot said. “A project of this size will have positive generational impacts on the region.”

Company officials stated that large-load customers like data centers can help lower costs for existing customers by spreading system expenses across a broader base. The project is also expected to bring upgrades to power lines, substations and equipment to strengthen the regional power grid.

Fontenot emphasized that infrastructure costs will not fall on current residents.

“Costs for infrastructure investments and power generation will be reimbursed by the data center with assurances made that prevent the shifting of costs onto other customers,” Fontenot said. “Improving infrastructure will lead to stronger resiliency and reliability for all customers.”

The project remains subject to oversight by the Louisiana Public Service Commission.

Cleco representatives noted the utility has met Louisiana’s reliability standards for the past 27 years, maintaining power delivery more than 99.99% of the time.


School Board budget report comparatively normal for this point

By JIM BUTLER

The School Board will hear at its next meeting that it needs about $57 million in May-June revenue to meet budget.

Through April 30, the most-recent data available, the system had received $192.5 million of an anticipated $249.7 million in the year ending June 30.

A review of previous fiscal years’ collections indicates those percentages are comparatively the same at this point.

Sales tax collection, $12.5 million through April 30, are the greatest variable remaining in the revenue stream.

Property taxes ($22.8 million), state constitution tax ($5.8 million) and state school fund allocations ($114.2 million) are pretty much done.

On the spending side about $168.1 million had been used of a $252 million budget through April 30.

Payroll and its related costs are the biggest ticket item on that side of the General Fund ledger. Teachers alone receive about $60 million.

The system Food Service Fund through April 30 had taken in $14.2 million and spent $13.3 million.


Rapides Parish lands massive $3.6 billion AI data center project

Photo: File Photo

Applied Digital Corporation announced plans to develop a $3.6 billion, state-of-the-art artificial intelligence (AI) factory campus in Rapides Parish. Known as Delta Forge 1, the facility is purpose-built for large-scale AI training and inference workloads, marking a major milestone in Central Louisiana’s economic growth and digital infrastructure expansion.

The new campus will directly support 200 new full-time, on-site jobs with salaries 150% of the state average wage. The project will create over 1,000 construction jobs at peak construction. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in an additional 218 indirect new jobs, for a total of 418 potential new job opportunities in the Central Region.

“Louisiana is leading America’s industrial renaissance while staying committed to the principles outlined in President Trump’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge, protecting reliability, affordability and the long-term interests of consumers,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Global companies are choosing Louisiana because they see a state where every region is prepared to deliver at scale, with the infrastructure, workforce and leadership needed to support the technologies and industries shaping the future economy.” 
 
Applied Digital designs, builds and operates data centers and colocation services for artificial intelligence, cloud and high-performance computing workloads. Delta Forge 1, will initially include two facilities totaling 300 megawatts of critical IT load across approximately 300 acres with direct access to energy infrastructure. The campus will use Applied Digital’s closed-loop cooling technology to support high-density computing environments for AI.
 
“Central Louisiana is exactly the kind of community we had in mind when we set out to build Applied Digital — a region with strong roots, abundant potential, and people who understand the value of long-term investment,” said Applied Digital Chairman and CEO Wes Cummins. “We’re honored to bring Delta Forge 1 to Rapides Parish, and we are committed to being a supportive, engaged partner in this community for the long haul. Our hope is that this campus becomes a source of opportunity and pride for the people of Central Louisiana for generations to come.”
 
Site development on the data center campus began in January 2026, with initial operations expected to begin in mid-2027.
 
“Today, Louisiana is competing differently,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “With stronger alignment, greater speed and a clear focus, we are seeing unprecedented momentum and growth reach every region of our state. This announcement reinforces that global technology companies see Louisiana as a place where they can expand, scale and invest with confidence while creating meaningful outcomes for our people and communities.”
 
Cleco will provide power to support Applied Digital’s data center campus, helping meet the energy needs of a large-scale AI and high-performance computing operation.
 
“This is the largest economic development opportunity in Cleco’s 90-plus year history and reflects the region’s growing competitive position for major infrastructure and technology investments,” said Cleco President and CEO Bill Fontenot. “This investment reflects the potential that many of us here in Central Louisiana have long known existed, and we see it as the beginning of even greater possibilities for our region. Cleco is proud to support transformative investments, like the data center project, that deliver meaningful economic impact while maintaining the affordability, reliability and value our customers expect and deserve.”
 
Applied Digital qualified for Louisiana’s state and local sales and use tax exemption on qualifying purchases or leases of data center equipment, established in Act 730 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session.
 
“The Delta Forge 1 investment is a defining moment for Central Louisiana and the England Economic & Industrial Development District (EEIDD) as a driver of innovation and opportunity,” said EEIDD Executive Director Ralph Hennessey. “This project represents the type of economic progress we were built to attract.”
 
“This project has the potential to be one of the most transformational in the history of Rapides Parish, surpassing even the major industrial investments of the 1950s and 60s,” said President & CEO of Louisiana Central Chris Masingill. “In both scale and impact, it positions Central Louisiana to compete for major economic opportunities in ways we haven’t seen in generations.”
 
Louisiana companies, make sure your business is registered at SourceLouisiana.com to enter the pipeline for contract and vendor opportunities with development projects statewide.

United Way of Central Louisiana leadership shares mission update at Rotary Club of Alexandria

United Way of Central Louisiana President and CEO Lafe Jones recently addressed members of The Rotary Club of Alexandria Louisiana, highlighting the organization’s ongoing mission and community-focused initiatives.

According to United Way of Central Louisiana, Jones spoke about the organization’s continued emphasis on transparency, accountability, and leadership while discussing efforts to refresh and reintroduce its mission throughout the region.

Organization leaders described the presentation as an opportunity to reconnect with the community and reinforce the role United Way plays in supporting local programs and partnerships across Central Louisiana.

United Way of Central Louisiana also expressed appreciation to community supporters, volunteers, and partners who have contributed to the organization’s efforts over the years.

The organization noted that the coming year will focus on strengthening community engagement and continuing its work to serve residents throughout the area.


Weather Outlook: Unsettled pattern brings daily storm chances

A prolonged stretch of unsettled weather is expected across Rapides Parish this week, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms along with periods of fog and warm temperatures.

Wednesday will feature showers likely, with a chance of thunderstorms in the morning and thunderstorms becoming likely in the afternoon. Highs will reach the lower 80s with south winds around 5 mph. Rain chances are near 70 percent. Wednesday night will be mostly cloudy with a chance of showers and thunderstorms in the evening, followed by additional showers after midnight. Patchy fog is also possible. Lows will settle around 70 with light and variable winds and a 50 percent chance of rain.

On Thursday, patchy morning fog is expected before another round of showers and thunderstorms develops. Highs will remain in the lower 80s with a 70 percent chance of rain. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with lows around 70 and light winds.

Friday brings a brief break in cloud cover with mostly sunny conditions early, though a chance of showers and thunderstorms returns in the afternoon. Highs will climb into the upper 80s with a 50 percent chance of rain. Friday night will be mostly clear early, then becoming partly cloudy with lows in the lower 70s.

The weekend remains active. Saturday will be partly sunny with a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms and highs in the upper 80s. Rain chances remain around 50 percent. Saturday night will be mostly cloudy with a chance of evening showers and thunderstorms and lows in the lower 70s.

Sunday continues the unsettled trend with mostly cloudy skies in the morning, becoming partly sunny in the afternoon with another chance of showers and thunderstorms. Highs will again reach the upper 80s with a 50 percent chance of rain. Sunday night will be partly cloudy with a chance of evening showers and lows in the lower 70s.

Looking ahead to next week, Monday will be mostly sunny early with a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Highs will remain in the upper 80s with a 50 percent chance of rain. Monday night will be partly cloudy with a chance of showers and lows in the upper 60s.

Tuesday will be partly sunny with another round of afternoon showers and thunderstorms possible. Highs will return to the lower 80s with a 40 percent chance of rain.

Residents should remain weather aware throughout the week as daily storm chances, brief heavy downpours and changing conditions remain possible across the region.


Three Generals earn All-Region softball honors

Sophia Romero stole 48 bases this season and made first-team All-Region for LSUA softball. (Photo courtesy LSUA Athletics)

After leading Louisiana State University-Alexandria to an NAIA regional championship round, three Generals softball players have earned National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Region honors.

Recognized as NAIA Region I first team selections were pitcher Lainee Bailey and utility player Sophia Romero. Outfielder Kaetlyn Dunbar was a second-team pick in voting by regional head coaches.
 
Bailey logged 144.1 innings and compiled a 19-7 record. Bailey recorded an ERA of 2.18 and a WHIP of 1.34. She struck out 77 hitters over 31 appearances. She was a first team All-Red River Athletic Conference selection and the RRAC Co-Pitcher of the Year.

Romero posted an average of .370 with an on-base percentage of .451. Romero recorded 26 runs batted in and scored 58 times. She stole a team-high 48 stolen bases, placing her ninth in the NAIA. Romero earned an All-RRAC first team selection and was the RRAC Newcomer of the Year.\

Dunbar led the Generals’ offense with an average of .425, ripping eight home runs, and collecting 60 runs batted in. Her RBI total puts her 21st in the NAIA. Dunbar scored 51 runs. She compiled an on-base percentage of .478 and a slugging percentage of .478. Dunbar was an All-RRAC first team selection and was chosen the RRAC Player of the Year.


Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame’s annual Induction Celebration is a month away  

The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way in a month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27 for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night, June 27 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 25, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 26 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2026 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event.

The slate on Saturday, June 27 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.


How in the world are these guys doing it?

Nothing is harder to swallow than when a younger athlete comes along and replaces the older, more experienced player. Egos are shattered and feelings are sometimes hurt. No athlete likes to be put out to pasture. But in today’s bass fishing universe, that’s exactly what’s happening.

To say the young guns of bass fishing have arrived would be an understatement! No matter what sport you play, there comes a day when someone wants to take your spot. They respect you because of your experience and time you’ve given to the game, but they are the ones pushing you out of the sport you love. 

Today, a younger generation is making its mark on the sport of tournament bass fishing by utterly dominating tournaments with catches that no one has ever seen before. This past month a young buck, Andrew Rickman, 24 years old from Canton, Texas, made his presence felt by catching a record setting B.A.S.S. Nation record of 95 pounds,15 ounces over a three-day period.

Now to some this may not resonate, especially if you’re not familiar with tournament bass fishing. But what this young man did is nothing short of incredible! Maybe this will help you understand; he caught 15 bass over the three days and averaged over 6 pounds per fish — something that has never been done before in tournament competition. 

What makes this more amazing is the fact that he had never seen, let alone fished Toledo Bend in his entire life! Most anglers could add up three years of tournament catches and not even come close to 95 pounds of bass. This kid did it in three days with zero experience on the lake!

It’s just another testament to how good so many of these young anglers are. They are doing things and catching fish in ways the older generation of anglers have never dreamed about. 

One thing that is very noticeable about the young anglers of today; they spend a tremendous amount of time on the water learning new techniques and studying their electronic units like Forward-Facing Sonar so they can get better.

So many of these young anglers (due to forward-facing sonar) have been unfairly labeled as “scopers only.” But it’s a little unfair to put a blanket label over all of them because so many have been raised with old-school techniques and can catch bass with or without Forward Facing Sonar.  

To put a bow on this topic, if changes or FFS restrictions are not made with regards to bass tournaments, I highly suggest that the older anglers spend more time on the water learning how to use FFS during the off season and spend less time in the deer stand if they want to be competitive with the young guns that are on the rise in the bass tournament world. 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com


Pineville Police conducting training exercises at Lessie Moore Elementary this week

The Pineville Police Department is advising residents about increased law enforcement activity at Lessie Moore Elementary School this week as officers participate in scheduled training exercises.

According to the department, community members may notice a heightened police presence in and around the school campus, including marked patrol vehicles and officers conducting operations on site.

Officials emphasized that the activity is strictly for training purposes and that there is no threat or cause for public concern.

Police stated that the exercises are designed to help officers remain prepared to respond effectively during critical incidents and emergency situations.

The department also thanked the Rapides Parish School Board and administrators at Lessie Moore Elementary School for allowing officers to use the facility for training.

Officials encouraged residents to help share the information to prevent unnecessary alarm within the community.


Cartoon of the Week: Smart home standoff

A routine evening took an unexpected turn this week when a smart home voice assistant reportedly refused to turn off the lights until the homeowner successfully pronounced “Wi-Fi router reset protocol version 3.2-B” without stumbling.

Witnesses say the frustrated homeowner made multiple failed attempts before finally surrendering and going to bed under fully illuminated conditions. The voice assistant, meanwhile, allegedly responded with repeated reminders to “please try again clearly.”

Technology experts say the fictional scenario highlights the growing love-hate relationship many people have with smart devices, especially when simple tasks suddenly become far more complicated than flipping a switch.


Louisiana Christian University names Maxey VPAA 

Louisiana Christian University has named Dr. Natalie Maxey the new Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Maxey was unanimously approved by the Board of Trustees and began her new position on May 19.

Maxey has served in a variety of roles at the university over the past decade, most recently as the interim dean for the Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business. From 2019-2024, she was the project director for the IDEA federal Title III grant that implemented initiatives developing new online programs, student support services and IT infrastructure on campus. 

Maxey earned her Ph.D. in chemical engineering in 2006 from Georgia Institute of Technology. She completed her B.S. in chemical engineering in 2000 at Louisiana Tech University.

She came to LCU in the fall of 2016 to form the pre-engineering program, which launched new degree programs and saw the renovation of classroom and lab space. 

“Over the last 10 years here, I have grown to love the students, faculty and staff at this institution, and I am deeply committed to our mission and role in the world of education,” Maxey said. “I’m excited to become VPAA. The VPAA’s role is both keeper of the academic flame and steward of the academic systems that sustain it.”

Maxey said she hopes to bring a love of knowledge and learning and an orientation toward process thinking to the role, to contribute toward an environment where everyone thrives in their educational and professional pursuits.

“My prayer is that, as an institution, we align ourselves with the tenets of our faith—loving God, loving our neighbors and making disciples of Jesus—while we deliver academic excellence,” she said. 

Before her work in academia, Maxey had an interesting and varied professional path. Initially, she was a stay-at-home mom. She has also been a pastor’s wife, while her husband Kirk served as a bi-vocational minister and engineer. 

She has also worked in her family’s formal garment manufacturing business, engineering wedding dresses out of camouflage. 

After that, Maxey worked in engineering as a design engineer at the GE Oil and Gas plant in Pineville.

Coming to LCU in 2016 was an answer to prayer, after GE announced it would close and relocate the plant to another part of the country. She and her husband both worked there as engineers.

“We grew up in this community, and both felt called to stay in the area,” Maxey said. “That spring, the previous president of LCU came to speak at my church, and I was asked at the last minute to join the group taking him out to lunch afterward. When the subject of the newly announced pre-engineering program came up, he asked me to consider applying, and it was quickly apparent that this was exactly what God had been preparing me for.

“I found teaching even more rewarding than I could have imagined, and I was so grateful for the opportunity to explore the science, engineering and math content areas that I loved from a Christ-honoring perspective.”

While her new role as VPAA will be quite a different experience from being in the classroom, she said her work implementing new systems and tools with many academic departments on campus and working closely with academic leadership across campus should make the transition easier.

“I hope to bring to the position a commitment to the academic mission, systems-oriented thinking,” she said, “and love for the people on our campus and in our community.”

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson said Maxey understands the importance of helping the university engage with religious, business, political, and educational leaders and institutions in ways that remain academically relevant and workforce-minded, while firmly grounded in our Christian mission and values.

“Dr. Maxey brings a combination of intelligence, professionalism, leadership and heart to the role of VPAA,” Johnson said. “Her academic background and administrative experience provide a strong foundation for helping move us forward during an important season of growth and momentum. She is deeply committed to students, supportive of faculty and staff, and passionate about academic excellence within a Christ-centered environment. She balances high expectations with thoughtful leadership.

“I am grateful for her leadership, thankful for her partnership, and excited about the impact she will continue to have on our university community.”


Remembering Barbara June Canoe

Barbara June Canoe, age 75, passed away on May 24, 2026, in Dry Prong, Louisiana. She was born on May 29, 1950, in Alexandria, Louisiana.

A Memorial service will take place at 7:00p.m. on Thursday May 28, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until the service time.

Barbara worked for many years with the United States Post Office, where she faithfully served until her retirement. She was the typical loving and devoted mother, the kind of mother who cared deeply, gave generously, and always made sure her family was loved and taken care of.

Barbara had a fun, outgoing spirit and a caring heart. She loved dogs, especially miniature dachshunds, which she raised and bred with great affection. She also loved horses and enjoyed horseback riding. She enjoyed shooting pool, listening to classic country music, and cooking big meals for family and friends-always making sure no one left her home hungry. Above all, Barbara loved her grandchildren and treasured her role as a grandmother. She will be remembered for her giving nature, her lively personality, and the love she poured into her family.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers Pete Ussery and Wayne Morris.

Survivors include her sons: William Paul (Emily) Rabalais and Ricky Joseph Rabalais; her daughter: Kimberly Rabalais; sisters Denise Biscamp and Kathy Arceneaux; and her grandchildren Landon Rabalais and Hunter Richey.


Remembering Theresa Louise Lanier Massey

Theresa Louise Lanier Massey, age 65, of Pollock, Louisiana entered eternal rest on Friday, May 22, 2026.

A graveside service for Theresa will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 am. Visitation will take place at Gallagher Funeral Home from 9:00-11:00 am.

Theresa is preceded in death by her parents, Carroll E. Lanier and Winifred Chatelain Lanier and her brother, Brian Lanier.

Those left to cherish her memories are sister, Kathy Miller (Ronald) and her brother, Steve Lanier (Amber).

Theresa was a woman who never met a stranger and spent her life caring for others with compassion, kindness, and a servant’s heart. Known as a true “jack of all trades,” she embraced life fully and worked hard in every role she held. She faithfully served for many years as a CNA, dedicating herself to the comfort and care of those in need. She also worked as a cook at Camp Cook, where she shared her warmth and love through meals and fellowship.

Theresa loved people deeply and found joy in helping others. Her caring spirit, strong work ethic, and generous heart touched the lives of many family members, friends, coworkers, and all who had the blessing of knowing her.

She held close to her favorite Bible verse, 2 Timothy 4:7:

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

Though she will be greatly missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and Savior.

May her memory forever live in the hearts of those who loved her.

Notice of Death – May 26, 2026

Barbara June Morris Canoe
May 29, 1950 – May 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 7pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Timothy Brent Guillory
July 19, 1965 – May 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 12pm at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Echo.

Margaret DiStefano LaCombe
December 3, 1953 – May 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Alexandria. 

Betty Louise Garner Roshto
May 7, 1949 – May 24, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Joyce Lynn Verzywvelt DeKeyzer
January 10, 1936 – May 23, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at St. Margaret Catholic Church, Boyce.

Mary “Beth” Williams
July 25, 1954 – May 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Ida Marie Villemarette Jeansonne
December 24, 1931 – May 22, 2026
Service: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Theresa Louise Massey
February 7, 1961 – May 22, 2026
Service: Thursday, May 28, 2026, 11am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Norma Seidl Reed
July 22, 1940 – May 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 6, 2026, 10am at Pineville Christian Church, Pineville. 

Nina Myrtis Huffman
October 10, 1933 – May 6, 2026
Service: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

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