UPDATE 11:45am June 17, 2016

With the excessive rainfall that we have received in Rapides Parish, we urge all motorist to only travel if necessary.  The following roads are now underwater.  As we receive more information, we will update this list.  Please use caution.

– Boy Scout Rd

– Jessie Johnson Rd, Ward 6

– Union Hill Baptist Church Rd, Ward 6

– McNary Cutoff

-East River Road

– West River Road

-Libuse Cutoff Road

-Fin Thompson Road

-Lee Bridge Road

-Esler Field Road

-Old Beaubouef Road

-Ashmore Road

-Leon Odom Road

-Doshie Road

-Ball Cutoff

-Joe Ray Road

-Clifton Crossing

-Peart Road, Ward 2

-Dewitt Lane

-Town and Country Road

-Padgett Road

-Newsome Road

-Paul Road

-Donnie Price Road

-Chester West Roa

-Tiger Lake Road

-Ahtus Melder Road (at bridge)

-Melder Road (towards Pine Ridge Church)

These roads have been opened for thru traffic. 

-Grand Pierre

-Hazmuka

-Barron Chapel

-Gunter Road

-Denny Road

-Ida Wells Road

-Elmus Paul Road

-Barney Rush Road

-Brannon Road

UPDATE 8:40 am June 17, 2026

With the excessive rainfall that we have received in Rapides Parish, we urge all motorist to only travel if necessary.  The following roads are now underwater.  As we receive more information, we will update this list.  Please use caution.

– Boy Scout Rd

– Jessie Johnson Rd, Ward 6

– Union Hill Baptist Church Rd, Ward 6

– McNary Cutoff

-East River Road

– West River Road

-Barney Rush Road

-Libuse Cutoff Road

-Fin Thompson Road

-Lee Bridge Road

-Esler Field Road

-Ida Wells Road

-Elmus Paul Road

-Old Beaubouef Road

-Ashmore Road

-Leon Odom Road

-Doshie Road

-Ball Cutoff

-Joe Ray Road

-Clifton Crossing

-Peart Road, Ward 2

-Dewitt Lane

-Town and Country Road

-Padgett Road

-Brannon Road

-Newsome Road

-Paul Road

-Donnie Price Road

-Chester West Roa

-Tiger Lake Road

These roads have been opened for thru traffic. 

-Grand Pierre

-Hazmuka

-Barron Chapel

-Gunter Road

-Denny Road

The Rapides Parish Police Jury is urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel after excessive rainfall has caused multiple roads across the parish to become impassable due to high water.

Officials report the following roads are currently underwater as of 10:02 pm, June 16, 2026:

Please use caution.

– Boy Scout Rd

– Jessie Johnson Rd, Ward 6

– Union Hill Baptist Church Rd, Ward 6

– McNary Cutoff

-East River Road

– West River Road

-Barney Rush Road

-Libuse Cutoff Road

-Fin Thompson Road

-Lee Bridge Road

-Esler Field Road

-Ida Wells Road

-Elmus Paul Road

-Old Beaubouef Road

-Ashmore Road

-Leon Odom Road

-Doshie Road

-Ball Cutoff

-Joe Ray Road

-Clifton Crossing

-Peart Road, Ward 2

-Dewitt Lane

-Town and Country Road

-Padgett Road

-Brannon Road

-Newsome Road

-Paul Road

-Donnie Price Road

These roads have been opened for thru traffic. 

-Grand Pierre

-Hazmuka

-Barron Chapel

-Gunter Road

-Denny Road

Drivers are strongly encouraged to use caution, avoid flooded areas, and travel only when necessary until water levels recede and roads are cleared.

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By Republican U.S. Senate Candidate John Fleming, M.D.

Now that the incumbent, Dr. Bill Cassidy, has been eliminated from the Republican Party’s runoff election, Louisiana voters need to decide who is the best candidate to represent them in the U.S. Senate.

All voters hear from my opponent, Congresswoman Julia Letlow, is that she “earned the endorsement of President Trump.” However, the endorsement was totally engineered by Governor Jeff Landry through the political back door.

What did Julia Letlow do to earn the endorsement? Was it her lifetime commitment as a liberal academic to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), policies that President Trump strenuously opposes? Was it her liberal voting record in Congress that was in direct opposition to the President’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) and America First agenda?

Was it her vote to fund the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) during the Biden administration that allocated taxpayer money toward abortions and gender reassignment surgeries overseas?

Was it her staunch support for Biden’s Green Energy and Climate Change agenda, including carbon sequestration?

Was it her record of incompetence, passing no bills into law during her five years in Congress?

In contrast to her history of liberalism and ineffectiveness, I offer Louisiana voters a record of achievement and honest service. I am a physician, military veteran, small business owner, and job creator. I served as a Louisiana Congressman, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Trump, and was Co-Founder of the House Freedom Caucus. Presently, I am honored to serve as your Louisiana State Treasurer.

My voting record is unabashedly conservative, staunchly supporting MAGA and America First policies. I totally oppose the Green Energy and Carbon Sequestration scams.

Unlike my opponent, whose campaign has been referred to both the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice for investigation and who admitted to late filings of 210 stock trades, there is no blemish on my record. In fact, as a Congressman, I did not engage in stock trading.

As Julia Letlow’s liberal views are being exposed, her poll numbers are falling. In recent days, her own pollster announced that I am leading in the polls.

The more she drops in the polls, the more desperate and unhinged her attacks become. Her campaign is panicking and issuing shrill statements to confuse and intimidate voters.

Fortunately, Louisiana voters are smart. They know Julia Letlow will not debate me because she cannot defend her record. They know that Governor Landry and his allies are pumping millions of dollars of dark money into this race to support her. These insiders oppose me because they know I cannot be bought, bullied, or bossed.

I am running for the United States Senate because Louisiana needs a senator who will challenge the political establishment, both in our home state and in our Nation’s Capital, not accommodate it.

Louisiana voters face a clear choice in this Senate runoff. You can continue sending politicians like Julia Letlow to Washington who only talk about conservative values, or you can elect me, a proven conservative fighter who has spent a lifetime defending them.

Throughout my career, I have stood unapologetically for limited government, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, energy independence, and the sanctity of life. I have consistently placed principles above political convenience.

Friends, as the only genuine MAGA conservative in the runoff, I am asking for your vote to become Louisiana’s next U.S. Senator.

Early voting continues through June 20, and Election Day is June 27.

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Louisiana Christian University’s nursing students have achieved a 100% pass rate on the national licensing exam.

This is the first cohort of students to graduate under the revised nursing curriculum.

The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the national licensing exam every nursing graduate must pass to legally work as a registered nurse in the United States.  It has served as the standard for nursing licensure since 1982 and is recognized across the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

NCLEX pass rates are among the most significant measures of a nursing program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for professional practice.  Although nursing programs are assessed using a variety of academic and clinical performance indicators, NCLEX outcomes are particularly important because they reflect graduates’ ability to meet the national standard for safe and competent practice in healthcare.  

“The statewide shortage of licensed nurses underscores the need for academically prepared nursing professionals who can think critically, make sound clinical decisions, and respond effectively in patient care settings,” said Dr. Shaina Goudeau, dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health. “LCU’s strong NCLEX pass rates provide clear evidence that its graduates are well-prepared to meet and exceed entry-level standards while delivering safe, competent, and compassionate care.”

The revised Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum was approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing in April 2023 and launched in the fall of 2024. Students enroll in pre-nursing theory, dosage calculation, pathophysiology, and basic pharmacology to build a solid foundation before matriculating into the nursing program.  

The program also offers a minor in emotional intelligence, maintaining the focus on holistic healthcare.  

“Healthcare administrators seek high-EQ employees and see it as a valuable added set of skills. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is a set of emotional and social skills that influence how we perceive and express ourselves, develop and maintain social relationships, cope with challenges, and use emotional information effectively and meaningfully,” Goudeau said.

Emotional intelligence in nursing is vital to providing the care patients need, as nurses interact with patients and families facing challenging situations and conditions. 

LCU has a longstanding tradition of academic excellence and leadership that is reflected in its nursing program.  Key strengths include low student-to-faculty ratios and a strong commitment to mentorship, which enable faculty to foster a supportive learning environment and contribute to student success.  

LCU nursing faculty are equipped to lead this charge through their exceptional clinical expertise and dedication to service; these attributes allow faculty to effectively prepare and guide the next generation of licensed nurses. 

Visit the LCU nursing program online for more information about the program, or contact shaina.goudeau@lcuniversity.edu.

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Northwestern State University announces the names of Dean’s List students for the Spring 2026 semester. Students on the Dean’s List must be enrolled full-time at Northwestern and have a grade point average of between 3.5 and 3.99.

For questions regarding the Dean’s List, contact the NSU Registrar’s Office at (318) 357- 6171 or email registrar@nsula.edu.

Students listed by hometown (within Journal coverage areas) are as follows.

Alexandria – Ava Adams, Lexie Alberes, Ashton Brodnax, Kevin Byone, Joseph Cain, Ayla Cox, Danielle Darby, Leila Ford, Jordan Gregory, Ruben Kho, Lawson Kirsch, Jaykendel Lair, Faith Martin, Marina Moorehead, Miracle Newman, Tina Nguyen, Shelby Palmer, Trinity Patrick, Camryne Phillips, Kailyn Price, Latajah Quinney, Kamren Smith, Sydney Smith, Kelsey Stuckey, Alex Sukerek, Faith Williams

Arcadia – Lauren Terry

Ball – Dana Atwood, Tamia Bowie, Kayla DuBois, Harry Hoben, Lauren Nugent

Barksdale AFB – Christian Ostolaza, Chole Sparks

Benton – Landon Barrett, Hudson Brignac, Katharyn Evans, Carson Ferguson, Caitlyn Hayes, Sierra Khaled, Keya Little, Ella Robinson, Amelia Sims, Morgan Spradling, Tyla Stewart, Taten Wagley

Bienville – Lindsay Macynski

Bossier City – Shatha Alkhatib, Yousra Awawda, Braylee Baker, Kennedy Beloso, William Bryant, Kenneth Burnett, Lillian Cain, Bianca Capelli, Daniel Coleman, Daniel Covington, Mary Katherine Craig, Cody Davenport, Paxton DePingre, Allie Denton, Kendall Earley, Alyssa Espinosa, Ashlynn Fiske, Jadan Gray, John Gray, Mackenzie Hackleman, Layla Havis, Bryant Holmes, Cing Kim, Whitney Lamb, Sophia Livers, Patrick Lord-Stephens, Kalyssa Mall, Chase McLaurin, Natalie Mckuhen, Elyssa Moorem, Madysen Morgan, Felicia Parish, Heyshla Perez Vega, Joseph Resendez, Lizzett Rivera, Taylor Rochelle, Stephanie Salas Hernandez, Toni Sullivan, Ava Tarpley, Benjamin Taylor, Morgan Traylor, Jaslyn Turner, Bowen Vardeman, Illianna Wallace, Dwyane Watson, Jessica Watters, Lanaya Watts, Mekayla Wiggins, Ashley Woodfin

Boyce – Jace Aslin, Brooke Chelette, Chloe Cloessner, Lauren Holt, Olivia Melroy, Makinley Rachal

Bunkie – Lindy Aney, Amari Hamilton

Campti – Emma Dove, Dylan Fulton, Zoey Fulton

Castor – Leanne Colson, Malorie Cooper

Cheneyville – Dorcia Gillam

Cloutierville – Sydni Jones

Converse – Chloe Carter, Drake Friday, Mason Procell, Keigan Remedies, Justin Rushing

Cottonport – Keyonce Friels, Bryce Juneau

Effie – Sophie Moreau

Elm Grove – William Achee

Elmer – Layla Chandler

Florien – Cesaleigh Hall, Kennadi Sparks, Lilly Sparks, Madison Weldon

Forest Hill – Ethan Green, Baronica Gunter

Frierson – Joshua Bouriaque, Angelina Lee

Glenmora – Hunter Dauza, Marshall Dauzat, Katie Dupre, Martha Sierra, Kadence Tolbert, Gage Ware

Gloster – Makayla Butler

Goldonna – Winsome Guillory

Grand Cane – Carmen Puckett

Greenwood – Krista Cates, Madisyn James

Haughton – Kameron Burns, Morgan Davison, Hannah Fields, Abigail Meador, LaShonda Pennywell, Lawson Turner

Hessmer – Macey Barr

Hineston – Shyla Clark, Rebecca Dousay, Tinley Steedman

Jena – Ella Jensen, Morgan Paul, Alyson Trahan

Keithville – BreAnne Jones, Gabriel McCalmon, Ashlynn McClain

Logansport – Alexa Gannon, Hayden Knight

Mansfield – Jessie Cobb, Elizabeth Houston, Valentina Puac, Paulette Rambin, Nysia Samuels-Rochelle

Mansura – Tori Charrier, Ashley Joseph, Kerri Parrish

Many – Allison Bordelon, Layton Byles, Kaiya Causey, Harli Cruse, Victor Culbertson, John Harris, ShaeAunna Johnson, Jeffery Key, Margaret Ryan, Baylee Samples, Kelsey Sepulvado, Trenton Sepulvado, Vivian Sylvia

Marksville – Nicholas Ferguson, Zoey Guthrie, Mia Rodriguez

Marthaville – Avery Broadway, Mason Broadway, Camryn Ford, Aaron Manasco, Megan Singletary, Amelia Strahan

Mira – Haley Knighton

Moreauville – Heidi Gauthier

Natchez – Shona Moses, Chloe Rachal

Natchitoches – Sky Anders, Christopher Anderson, Caleb Barton, Kaylee Baugh, David Bellard, Cheyenne Bertrand, Haleigh Bertrand, Benjamin Bienvenu, Avery Broadway, Arkeylius Brooks, Oscar Brown, LaTonya Burton, Cailah Bush, Josue Bustillo Aguero, Erick Cabrera, Daniel Carballo, Oscar Andres Carballo Torres, Cody Carmen, Benjamin Castro, Adriana Chaj Hernandez, Derrick Clark, Santiago Coavas Romero, LaQuita Collins, Logan Collinsworth, Arionna Conday, Aiden Cryer, Juliyah Davis, Caldwell DeFord, Brendan Donaghy, Madison Dupuy, Kamron Edwards, Jasen Elie, Jessica Ellerbe, Mateo Este-McDonald, Sileena Farrell, Airicka Fields, Roseanna Files, Kylie Fleshman, Allison Flores Reyes, Ever Naun Galeas Antunez, Sofia Garcia, Anisha Gibbons, Alexx Gibson, Irene Gomez, Ashley Harkey, Kristen Harris, Joshalyn Harrison, Charles Heard, Ethan Heard, Kyleigh Herring, Darlisha Jefferson, Allyson Jett, Cambree Jimmerson, Kevin Juarez Lopez, Punam Khadka, Kayden Larkins, Mitchell LeBlanc, Angel Maradiaga, Madison Martin, Abby McNeely, Noah McNeil, Lauren Menard, Diana Marcela Mercado Garcia, Joseph Merritt, Mikayla Mondello, Madelyn Murphy, Joshua Nolley, Kennede Oliver, Destiny Phillips, Brendal Pinckard, Cameron Possoit, Alexis Procell, Nohelia Ramos Vallecillo, Kennedi Revel, Victoria Robinson, Kaden Rush, Jordan Shields, Na’Riaya Sowell, Parker Stroope, Morgan Swafford, Belen Tenesaca Bermeo, K.C. Thompson, Shayna Tilley, Vyen Trang, Ronald Andrés Turizo Bueno, José Villeda, Artisha Waldrup, Aaron Waterstraat, Caleb White, Elizabeth White, Victoria Wiggins, Shakera Williams, Shantangelo Williams, Sophia Witman, Brian Young, Sha Young

Noble – Mariana Ebarb, Rowan Ebarb, Rebecca Hardee, Katelen Turner

Pineville – Payton Bareswill, Ethan Bolyer, Madison Book, Jenyah Clay, Kaylee Cotton, Liza Foreman, Madelyn Glaze, Darren Keel, Blake LaFargue, Madeline Litton, Breanna Melancon, Olivia Melder, Kylee Mott, Ahmani Roberson, Ada Shoup, Kirstyn Smith, Patrice Spera, Karly Stansell, Landon Vallee

Plain Dealing – Kathryn Taylor-Watkins

Plaucheville – Alise Clausen

Princeton – Xavier Hobson

Ringgold – Kaylee Cook

Robeline – Trinity Brewer, Anniston Broadway, Jax Colston, Adam Guidry, Rayleigh Harris, Baylee Johnson, Caleb Johnston, Piper Kay, Madeline Mitchell, Bonney Phillips, Harley Welling

Shongaloo – Mackenzie Hosley, Taylor Hosley

Shreveport – Kerion Anderson, ShayAnna Beatty, Shepherd Benson, Amber Bledsoe, Taja Bolds, Amarriyah Boykins, John Campbell, Taylor Capetillo, Tremia Collins, Yabria Cotton, Cassie Donaghey, Aaliyah Dove, Ashton Dykes, Kiara Ealy, Leia Estes, Macy Etheredge, Nathan Franklin, Emily Frataccia, Valerie Gongre, Tyler Hays, Emma Hernandez, Jacinta Jemeli, Monicah Jepkemboi, Kenberly Jones, Ashanti Lemons, Bryson Lewis, Jeremy Lewis, Adam Mariano, Aliyah Mason, Asia Mason, Kimberly Michelli, Kristie Miller, Amirhossein Montazeri Ghahjavarestani, Janiyah Mosley, Stella Okoh, Clairie Parent, Patricia Paterno, Araya Perkins, Hailee Posey, Claire Prda, Katherine Randolph, Char’lajahe Rattler, Rosalie Ray, Zariah Ray, Carolina Resendez, Jillian Rizzuto, Sheena Rose, Virginia Santiago, Jillian Sexton, Addison Smith, Aniyah Smith, Michaela Smith, Amanda Spraggins, Anicia Taylor, Lorien Thomas, Jamya Thompkins, Alayah Williams, Helen Williams-Brown, Lakenya Wilson

Simmesport – Nicole Canal

Stonewall – Natalie Cobb, Mya Dunn, Rhyan Floyd, Matthew Hiang, Abigail Jones, Anna Little, Kameryn Mckinney, Amber Melton, Jordan Porterfield, Kirsten Sepulvado, Mary-Elizabeth Widener, Gabriel Williams

Winnfield – Mattie Barnes, Kyleigh Blundell, Maggie Bruce, Sarah Carter, Haley Collins, Peyton Glenn, Pamela Hight, Marvanesha Lewis, Eli Little, John Pickett, Ella Price, Caleb Reed, Tolbert Triplett

Woodworth – Dustin Guillory, Lluvia Guillot, Natalie Hyde

Zwolle – Nahliyah Boykins, Christian Culbertson, Jaeger Ebarb, Dawson Leone, Emma Meshell, Kamron Parrie, Kamaryn Rivers

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The Woodworth and Bodcau shooting ranges will be closed Friday (June 19) for the Juneteenth holiday. Both ranges will be open Saturday and Sunday (June 20-21) with normal hours.

The Woodworth shooting range is located at 661 Robinson Bridge Road in Woodworth. The Bodcau shooting range is located at 168 Ben Durden Road in Benton.

Information on all LDWF shooting ranges can be found at the LDWF Shooting Range webpage.

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BATON ROUGE – Attendees at the Louisiana Folklife Center program “Fiddlin’ with the Finest! A Celebration of Louisiana Folk Fiddling” on June 13 at the LSU Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge were treated to a performance of fiddle musical artistry.  

Several musicians participated, including two Louisiana State Fiddle Champions — Clancey Stewart (2018) and Joe Suchanek (2017 and 2024) — as well as accomplished fiddler Gina Forsyth. Dr. Shane Rasmussen, director of the Louisiana Folklife Center and professor of English at Northwestern State University, coordinated the event, which included a discussion of various aspects of the tradition and a Q&A with the audience. Live music throughout the program included examples of fiddle styles as well as a demonstration of triple fiddling. Stewart also displayed her skill at traditional clogging or flat foot dancing and Forsyth played fiddle sticks on Stewart’s fiddle while Stewart played. 

The well-attended program was a prelude to the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship, which will be part of the 46th annual Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival to be held on the Northwestern State University campus on July 18. The Fiddle Championship will be held at 1 p.m. in Magale Recital Hall. Fiddlers may compete in the championship or non-championship, as well as in the twin fiddle category. Registration is at noon in the first-floor foyer outside Magale Recital Hall. The Fiddle Championship winner will perform on the main stage in Prather Coliseum at 5 p.m. 

“The music performed at events like this one remind us how vital and vibrant Louisiana’s folk music can be,” said Rasmussen. “The Louisiana State Fiddle Championship provides important opportunities for fiddlers young and old to have fun while at the same time meet with peers, make new friends and showcase their talent. When folklife is alive and well people are happier, because our traditions give meaning to our lives as individuals and as a community.” 

The event was hosted by the LSU Rural Life Museum and sponsored by the Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern. Support for the festival is provided by grants from the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc., the Louisiana Division of the Arts Decentralized Arts Fund Program, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the Shreveport Regional Arts Council and the State of Louisiana. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in the program did not necessarily represent those of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities. 

For information on pre-registering to compete in the Louisiana State Fiddle Championship, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu or go to https://www.nsula.edu/folklife/louisiana-state-fiddle-championship/. 

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Music, food, family fun at free Hall of Fame Rockin’ River Fest Friday, June 26

Friday night is just right for some midsummer magic under the moonlight, free for all, during next weekend’s Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

Specifically, it’s going to happen next Friday evening into night, June 26, on the Rue Beauport stage bordering Cane River Lake smack dab in the middle of the City of Lights’ historic and beautiful downtown district. It’s the free Rockin’ Riverfest party presented by Rapides Regional Medical Center and Louisiana Propane Dealers.

The showcase act is Blue Crab Redemption, a Louisiana bred and fed alt blues/rock band whose major influences include Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, Stevie Wonder and The Eagles.  Their sound is a raw, classic vibe from ghosts of legends past blended with the soulful influences of the modern rock era.

The opener is Connor Martin, a country artist passionate about creating music that inspires and connects. Recently, Martin has opened for Easton Corbin, Tyler Farr, Parker McCollum, and Keith Urban.

Good times will abound during the riverfront concert, which runs from 6 p.m. to 10:30. One of the highlights: at 9:15, the Hall’s impressive Class of 2026 will be introduced on stage, and celebrated with a 10-minute fireworks show set to sports-themed music over Cane River Lake. Then the music cranks up again for another hour of festivities.

And yes, you read correctly. It’s free to attend.

There will be food and beverage vendors – Girlines Home Cooking, Soulful Wings, Summer Snow To Go and for the grown-ups, Maggio’s, on the riverfront, and of course, Front Street’s always fun watering holes/restaurants are just a few steps away.

MOVE Sport and Spine will set up their sharp-looking apparel line for sale, and Hall of Fame gear will also be available.

It’s family friendly. A free interactive kids zone presented by the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans will include basketball, football, baseball games and inflatables for all ages to enjoy. NSU athletes will be on hand to help the kids have all the fun, and give away some basketballs.

If you want to beat the summer heat and enjoy a tasty collection of Louisiana foods and specialty refreshments, hurry and visit LaSportsHall.com to snap up some of the fast-disappearing $100 tickets to the VIP Taste of Tailgating presented by Hancock Whitney.

That party runs from 7-10 p.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of Mama’s Oyster House and Blues Room that will provide exclusive access to the 12-member 2026 Induction Class.

Join the fun and celebrate some of Louisiana’s sports greats, for free, on Friday evening, June 26, in downtown Natchitoches.

Rockin’ River Fest is one of three free events during the Induction Celebration, starting with the free Welcome Reception Thursday evening, June 25, from 5-7 in the Hall of Fame museum. It’s not a dress-up event, just a come eat and meet the inductees and check out the world-class museum at no charge. The other free event is the Saturday morning June 27 Saints & Pelicans LSHOF Junior Training Camp for kids. Advance registration is necessary at LaSportsHall.com.

For information on all seven events during the June 25-27 Class of 2026 Induction Celebration, visit LaSportsHall.com or call 318-238-4255.

Paid Content

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By TEDDY ALLEN, Written for the LSWA

(The scene is a cramped meeting room the size of the average American kitchen. Around a small oval table is a girl and two guys, including Scotty, the production manager, dressed in khaki and polo and youthful confidence. Yellow legal pads and paper cups of coffee are involved, pens and markers and laptops, the out-of-place, somewhat lonely Fresca. Scotty speaks …)

“Harvey and the new guy are a couple doors down in Development working on the script, polishing things up — Horatio’s doing some rewrites, a part or two that just didn’t feel right, you know? — but I wanted to get you up to speed on exactly where we are on the doc on Mike McConathy. So me and Larry felt we’d open this way …

“Hey Emmitt, please take a sec and skate down to PR and ask them to release that Bossier City native Mike McConathy, the winningest college basketball coach in state history, a prep All-American guard at Airline High and an honorable mention All-American guard for Louisiana Tech before launching a history-making coaching career at Bossier Parish Community College and then Northwestern State, will be enshrined in the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Saturday night, June 27, at the Hall of Fame’s home in Natchitoches. Add that ticket information for the seven events over three days of festivities, June 25-27, is available at the LaSportsHall.com or by calling by calling 318-238-4255 …, and remind everyone it’s always sold out so get on the horn and let’s have some fun honoring the Class of 2026. Appreciate. Take off. Come back with an expresso or don’t come back …

“So Coach Mike is driving his truck down a two-lane road where the trees touch over the middle stripe. Got the Location crew scouting for the perfect spot. He’s right at home, happy as a flea at a dog show because this is the man’s wheelhouse. The guy’s face is practically glowing … He’s either driving to any one of the Louisiana high school gyms he’s been to over and over for 40 years OR he’s wearing that big floppy straw hat and we pan to the weed eaters and gas cans and rakes and mowers in the bed … You see where I’m going? It’s a beautiful open, is what it is …

“So Coach Mike is driving down a two-lane heading to a game because that’s where he’s most happy except it’s probably not gonna be Mike because the guy doesn’t toot his own horn. At all. We’re not gonna be able to get him to say anything about himself. Me and T-Money ate lunch with him in Bossier and we get this: ‘I’ve never thought of myself as being better than anybody else. That’s just who I am. I played and coached with unbelievable people. Fans have been very supportive, always. I just never think of myself that way.’ That’s it. Guy just keeps chewing. Swigs water. Like he’s talking about last week’s weather. 

“His wife of 48 years and counting, Connie? Met on a blind date. She didn’t know he played basketball. They’d been dating just six months and the junior high kids she was student teaching told her he’d made all-conference. ‘If the students hadn’t told me,’ she says, ‘I still wouldn’t know.’ True story!

“You know how she found out he was in the Hall of Fame? Family text thread. Michael or Logan, one of the sons. No, for real: hand on my heart …

“So somebody who can sell ‘humble and loyal’ and make it authentic — gotta be authentic — will have to play him; he might not even let us take his picture holding a basketball. I’m thinking Bryan Cranston, funny but can get serious. Russell Crowe and go the’ gladiator’ angle, though that might be too … what’s the word? … gruesome? Sweaty? Too Roman?  Woody Harrelson is a frontrunner since he was in a basketball movie, maybe Keanu Reeves with that certain All-American Dude quality. The perfect guy, the PERFECT guy, is Denzel — but he’d really have to sell it … you feel me? Not sure if Harrelson can still dunk, but Denzel can. Like Coach Mike, Denzel can do ANYthing and still be ‘everyman’ … 

(Coffee slurps … the tic-tac of keys on a laptop. Somewhere, a dog barks …)

“But humble and loyal won’t get you into the Hall. Coach Mike has the numbers to go with the soul. Double-threat. Best of both worlds. All like that. The ol’ ‘Nice Guys Finish First’ bit — for a nice change. 

“Here’s where the numbers tell the story through the clips with people who know him better than anyone … 

“High school early ’70s, Airline in Bossier, son of Northwestern State great John McConathy, the fifth pick in the 1951 draft. We’ve got Airline teammates Terry Slack and Steve Haynes, football stars, talking about Mike having keys to the gym, practicing while wearing ankle weights, jumping rope, always working, getting recruited by Oklahoma and LSU and NSU and more, and eventually deciding to go to Ruston with them, just in a different sport … 

“Then Tech teammates Tom Morris and Walter May and Tim Floyd and Jim Woolridge, quick bytes about how he’s the most dedicated athlete they’ve ever seen, and that sweet jump shot, no wasted movement, fluid as water from a garden hose, the 9-1 Southland Conference title his junior year, him getting 25 a game and being the league’s Player of the Year … 

(Somewhere, a cat meows …)

“Keith Prince, Tech’s sports information director when McConathy played in 1974-77, tells us how Mike got drafted by the Bulls but the ABA/NBA merger cut out 100-plus pro jobs, how he played some European ball, then how he found his way back to Bossier Parish and brief high school gigs before starting the Bossier Parish Community College men’s basketball program with zip, playing in Airline’s gym, and winning 352 games in 16 seasons. Again, the guy did this from scratch. Didn’t have as much as an air pump …

“Then Shreveport’s Wayne Smith, another Tech all-conference and Tech Athletics Hall of Famer a decade after Mike, saying he saw Mike not only win at BPCC, but make sure, with limited resources, his players had food and some kind of housing and a chance, the one thing they needed the most. “Great player and coach,” Smith says on camera, “five-star man.” Game recognizing game. Sound and Music are seeing if the theme from Rocky might be good here, building to …

“The biggie. Northwestern State. The Demons. Where this Bulldog, this guy the Hall’s chairman and almost forever NSU SID Doug Ireland calls ‘a unicorn of a human,’ was ultimately meant to be. We’re talking 330 wins in 23 seasons, 682 total wins when we add 352 wins in 16 seasons at BPCC: Visual Effects is cooking up some snazzy presentation of the numbers. Meanwhile we’ve got Doug rattling off about Coach doing everything off the court from striping parking lots to pro bono weed eating on campus, a semi-continuance of the side biz he had in Bossier to get his Cavaliers some work and to SEE if they’d work …

“You’ll love this: we even have a Building and Grounds guy talking about how he thought Coach was one of THEM until he went to a game and saw the weed eater guy calling timeouts. Is that beautiful or WHAT?! We even have a couple of local non-profit directors saying with not a little embarrassment that they’d originally thought he worked for THEM. The guy was like a yard guy slash fix-it guy for the parish, AND he coached the basketball team. Only thing he lacked was a cape. (Scotty turns to the kid in J.Crew) Emmet, run down to Costume and see if we’ve got a purple and orange cape … might work that in … he did wear those checkerboard purple and orange pants coaching games.

(Somewhere, a crow caws …)

“A blurb of Greg Burke, NSU AD when Mike was coach, thanking his guy for the $5 million-plus his teams brought in from playing 117 guarantee games — including road wins at Auburn, Oklahoma State, Mississippi State, UTEP and neutral-court victories over Oregon State and 15th-ranked Iowa in the 2006 NCAA Tournament. Burke cries a little, understandable, especially when he gets to the part about 90 percent of the Demon hoopsters graduating. NINETY PERCENT! Believe that? …

“Then Chris Maggio tears up. TearFest, I’m telling you. Maggio, lifelong Natty resident and former NSU president. Former high school coach. Maggio takes us from March 1999, when Mike took over a Demons’ program with only five winning seasons and no postseason trips in 24 years of Division I history, to the Southland championship game that first season. And this without making over the roster! It’s a Demon miracle! Glory! …

“Here’s where Chris Thompson jumps in since Chris played for Mike both at BPCC and NSU. Chris describes the joy of winning the SLC title game Mike’s second season in their hometown, Bossier City, and the program earning the first of four postseason tournament appearances. Then we roll clips from those: NCAA 2001, Opening Round win over Winthrop; NCAA 2006, No. 14 seed First Round upset of No. 3 seed and Big Ten Tournament champ Iowa, a game everyone in Natchitoches swears they watched if they weren’t in Auburn Hills, Mich.; NCAA 2013’s First Round loss to eventual NCAA champion Florida, and the 2014 CIT home game. Video montage of those games with nat sound …

“It’s gold, is what it is. You love it! … I can tell by the way you’re smacking your Juicy Fruit. I do too! …

“And so, The End. On-court buckets and hugs. Sweaty time outs. Family pics. A quick blurb of Mike’s haberdasher saying, “He didn’t invent the mock turtleneck,” — this is courtside through tears after the buzzer-beater over Iowa, “he merely perfected it.” Oh! — almost forgot: some sentimental footage from February 15 last year when they named the Prather Coliseum court after him. THE WHOLE COURT! People DO this sort of thing? Guess we should get that in, amiright? LOL! Good stuff.

“Big Finish, but like Coach Mike, understated. A comment from — get this — the straw hat. The big nasty straw hat he wears when he’s weed eating the world. We’ve got Creative on it now, to make it work. All the hat says, shyly but with gratitude, is this: ‘I know I’m just a hat. A hat that needs an oil change, if we’re being honest. Just an ordinary hat. But when I’m on Coach Mike’s head, somehow, I feel more like a crown.’

(Fade to black. And purple. And white, with some orange trim …)

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There have been a few close calls for me while fishing the big waters of Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn. Each of these bodies of water are completely different in terms of how rough and dangerous each can be, whether it’s due to high winds or approaching storms. But one thing is the same; they will both scare you nearly to death. 

Over the years, I’ve had several close encounters that had me kissing the ground once I could put my feet on dry land. Even with these two lakes being close to each other as the crow flies, navigation for boaters can be totally different due to the fact that one has boat lanes and the other is pretty much wide open.

Let’s start with Toledo Bend. Geographically, this lake runs true north and south. So, a wind coming straight out of the south or directly from the north can make for extremely rough boat rides. Even a north or south wind of 5-10 MPH can have this body of water rocking and rolling. 

Sam Rayburn, on the other hand, is a different kind of lake in that runs northwest to southeast. That means if you get a strong northwest or southeast wind, navigation can be really tough. But wind in any other direction allows anglers to run one side of the lake or the other and avoid rough water because there are no boat lanes you have to run, like you do on Toledo Bend.

The problem with Toledo Bend is the fact that you must run the pre-charted boat lanes due to all the underwater stumps and debris that engulf this entire 72-mile-long waterway. Once you get out of the boat lanes you must idle to ensure safe boating navigation. 

But this also puts you at the mercy of Mother Nature and limits your ability to ride the waves that make navigation easier. Nothing is worse than driving your boat and going with the waves rather than against them. 

When possible, it’s always easier to go against the waves, which can sometimes allow you to run from one wave (once on plane) to the next, if the crest of each wave is not too far apart. 

I had one trip a few years ago that turned into one of the worst boat rides of my life. The tournament I was fishing was going out of Fin & Feather Resort on the south end of Toledo Bend. On this particular morning it was bluebird skies with zero wind in the pocket where we took off. 

But oh, how quickly things changed! Unbeknownst to any of us fishing this event, there was a strong 20-25 MPH wind dead out of the south that morning. When you reached the main lake boat road to head either north or south, you were met with 3-4 foot rolling waves. 

It was so rough that anglers were losing rods and reels and anything else on their boats that was not tied down. It was so bad all day that some anglers lost either a trolling motor or their electronic screens off the bow of their boats as they ran back in for weigh-in.  

I personally had fish located in the back of Negreet Creek on the Louisiana side of Toledo Bend and realized quickly that there was no way I was going across the lake in that kind of wind!

Like so many other anglers that day, I quickly switched to Plan B in order to try and salvage my tournament day by pulling into the first cove I found. I was simply going to fish new water and try and catch a solid limit of bass. 

My co-angler for the day asked me if I had ever fished in this pocket before. I looked him straight in the eye and said, “No, but take a good look at it, because you’re going to see it all day.” 

Around 1 o’clock that afternoon, it was time to start thinking about heading in for the weigh-in at 3, even though we were only two miles from the boat ramp. I was thinking it would take at least an hour, as the wind was now getting worse, blowing 30 mph, still out of the south. 

As I came out of the pocket and tried getting the boat up on plane, it was very apparent that this was not going to be possible and that the only way to make it back was to idle the entire two miles. 

One hour and 30 minutes later, we finally made it back to the weigh-in with only a few minutes to spare before we would have been given a late penalty — which was 1 pound for every minute you were late. 

I actually did better than I thought I would as I weighed-in a little over 15 pounds and finished in the top 15 for the day. But there were a lot of sad faces back at the ramp as guys loaded their boats, short a few rods and reels, along with trolling motors hanging off or electronics completely gone.

Tournament directors today have a very difficult job and are very conscious of sending anglers out on a body of water with either high winds predicted or the forecast of severe weather rolling in on tournament day. 

I know some anglers get frustrated when these directors make the call to cancel or postpone an event, but they’re just doing what is in the best interest of the anglers and making sure everyone gets back to their loved ones safely. After all, we do this for fun, not for a living!!!

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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In a nutshell, yes.  To be fair to restaurants, though, it seems like the price of just about everything has gotten ridiculous.  In my research for this article, I found the website latestcost.com, which has a blog post on the average cost of a burger. The site has tons of pop-up ads that are a deterrent for spending much time delving into their blogs but I was intrigued with their vast list of average costs they discussed in their blog posts. According to their data, the average cost for just a hamburger with no sides or a drink is $3.50 – $12.00.  I don’t know about where you live, but in my neck of the woods, $3.50 is going to get you a burger that you would normally find in a kid’s meal with little to no nutritional value.  According to the website datassential.com, burger prices have risen by 14% since 2023 while beef production costs surged 32%. The average net profit margin a restaurant makes on each hamburger sold is 10 – 15% for a regular burger and 12 – 18% for a gourmet burger. 

There are ways to save when dining out. The easiest way to reduce your costs is to order water instead of a drink. According to moneydigest.com, the markup for a fountain drink at a restaurant ranges between 650% to 1,100%! Consider sharing a meal with your spouse, date, or friend. By sharing your meal, you’ll not only leave your wallet a little fatter, you’ll keep from growing your girth. You can also save on your meals by using coupons or discounts that may be available through your credit card or bank card. You may also find discounted gift cards at your local membership club or through gift card exchange websites. You can explore recommendations for gift card exchange websites at pcmag.com, which suggests you read a website’s FAQ section to determine if they offer a money-back guarantee before making any purchase.

Got a question about work, money, family—or just figuring life out? Ask Ida is where real people get real answers, served with humor and plain talk. Send in your question, and let’s make sense of life’s bumps together. ASK IDA

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July Summer Art Camp Offers a Week of Creativity and Discovery

This July, young artists will have the opportunity to explore their creativity, develop new skills, and bring their imaginations to life during July Summer Art Camp, a four-day creative experience designed for students ages 9–13.

Hosted July 13–16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day, the camp provides a welcoming and inspiring environment where children can experiment with a variety of artistic techniques while building confidence and making new friends.

Leading the camp are Rev. Kennon Pickett and Rev. Jean Sanders, both pastors and practicing artists who share a passion for nurturing creativity in young people. Rev. Pickett serves as Senior Pastor, while Rev. Sanders serves as Artist and Pastor in Residence. Together, they bring years of artistic experience, encouragement, and mentorship to the classroom, creating a unique atmosphere where creativity and personal growth go hand in hand.

Throughout the week, campers will work with a wide range of mixed media, including painting, paper mâché, two-dimensional art, and three-dimensional art. Each day will introduce new materials, techniques, and hands-on projects, giving participants the chance to explore different forms of artistic expression while creating original works of art to take home.

More than simply an art class, the camp is designed to encourage imagination, problem-solving, self-expression, and confidence. Whether a child is already passionate about art or simply curious to try something new, all experience levels are welcome.

To ensure a high-quality and personalized experience, enrollment is limited to just 15 participants. The cost is $120 for the full four-day camp and includes lunch as well as all art supplies.

Scholarships are available to help ensure that every child has the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial circumstances.

Families interested in registering or learning more are encouraged to visit www.fumca.org/summerartcamp. For scholarship information, contact Rev. Jean Sanders at jsanders@fumca.org. Because space is limited, early registration is recommended.

With hands-on projects, expert instruction, and plenty of opportunities for creative exploration, July Summer Art Camp promises a memorable week where young artists can learn, create, and discover the joy of making art.

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Funeral services for Stanley David Bohrer will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church with Reverend Thomas Kennedy officiating. Entombment will be in Alexandria Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

The family requests visitation be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Hixson Brothers, Alexandria, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until shortly before service time. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 6:30 p.m., Friday at Hixson Brothers, Alexandria

Stanley David Bohrer passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on June 13, 2026, and went to his Heavenly Home with God our Father. He is leaving behind a legacy of service, hard work, and devotion to his family and community.

Stanley is survived by his son, Mark Bohrer, and wife, Patrice Simon Bohrer; his daughter, Lisa Bohrer Ebarb and husband, Allen Ebarb; his grandson, Zachary Bohrer, and fiancée, Sarah Burton; his granddaughters, Carlee Ebarb and Caylee Ebarb; his sister, Barbara Blalock; his brothers-in-law, Havard Gauthier and Wayne Rundell; his sister-in-law, Jerrie Gauthier; his beloved grand dogs, Muffin and Macie; and a host of numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Beverly Bohrer; his grandson, Christian Bohrer; his parents, Noah and Ruby Bohrer; his brother, Heyman Bohrer and wife Loretta; his brother-in- law, Ronald Gauthier; his sister-in-law, Sharon Gauthier; and his sister-in-law, Judy Rundell.

Stanley proudly served in the United States Army Reserve for 23 years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class. During his military career, he served as a Drill Sergeant with the 95th Division in Alexandria, Louisiana, where he helped train and mentor young soldiers.

Along with his military service, Stanley carried on his father’s legacy by operating Noah’s Potato Chip Company alongside his family. He especially enjoyed giving tours to school-age students of the Noah’s Potato Chip Factory and sharing the family business with the community. He also took pride and joy in providing homes for many families throughout the Alexandria area, managing his rental property. Over the years, Stanley enjoyed planting a garden with vegetables, spending time and visiting with friends at McDonald’s over coffee, and keeping up with all the current events. He also enjoyed spending time with his friends, Jimmy Curcio, and Michael Descant, eating dinner on Friday evenings, going to the casino, and watching the LSU football games.

He was so thankful to his friends Colleen Dunn, and neighbors Penny Toney and Kelly Self for always checking on him and making sure he had hot meals to eat daily.

Stanley will always be remembered for his compassion, frugal nature, strong work ethic, and having a very generous heart. Stanley was always willing to help others. Above all, he truly loved his children, grandchildren, and all his family. He absolutely treasured every moment he spent with friends and family.

Our Dad fought a courageous fight over the last few years with bladder cancer. The family would like to thank Dr. Jared Moss and Dr. Kirtan Koticha of Shreveport for their exceptional care over the last few years caring for our father.

Special thanks to the Glen nursing facility in Shreveport and Lifepath Hospice Care in Shreveport for caring for our father in his final days.

Pallbearers will be Michael Duplissey, Allen Ebarb, Thomas Ebarb, Chad Rundell, Robert Bohrer, and Lee Morris.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jimmy Curcio, Michael Descant, Robert Kyle, Ronald Bordelon, and Donald Bordelon.

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Norbert William Diveley Jr., lovingly known as “Norb,” passed away peacefully at home on May 27, 2026. Born on May 23, 1952, in Pineville, Louisiana, to Harriette Meyer and Norbert William Diveley. He was raised in a large Catholic family alongside his ten siblings. His faith was an important part of his life from an early age, serving as an altar boy and developing a lifelong love of the Bible and church.

Norb proudly served in the United States Navy for two years as a Cook before beginning a long and dedicated career with Anheuser-Busch, where he worked as a bottler for 30 years. He was known by coworkers and friends as a hardworking, honest, and dependable man who would always lend a helping hand.

Norb met the love of his life, Janet Kay Diveley, at Pizza King, and from the moment they met, he told her he was going to marry her. Together they built a life centered around love, laughter, and family. Janet was the joy of his life, and he showed his love daily through his kindness, thoughtful surprises, and constant care for her.

A loving grandfather and great-grandfather, Norb enjoyed family gatherings, especially when he could step into his beloved role as Santa Claus during Christmas celebrations. He had a generous spirit and never expected anything in return. One of the ways he made people feel loved was through cooking delicious meals for family and friends. He also enjoyed fishing, once proudly catching a 60-pound catfish, and listening to Elvis Presley’s biblical songs.

Norb will be remembered as a loving and caring man with a wonderful sense of humor, someone who was always there for others and who found his greatest happiness in caring for the people he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Kay Diveley; stepchildren Ed Hazelwonder Jr. (Shirley) and Susan Hazelwonder (Wendy); grandchildren Kim Gaddis (Adam), Amanda Johnson (Brock), Samantha Detjen (John Hunter), Jonathon Hazelwonder (Bryn), Tiffany Stanton (Samuel), and Michael Hazelwonder (Rebecca); and thirteen great-grandchildren, along with many siblings, extended family members, and friends who will deeply miss him.

To plant a tree in memory of Norbert W Diveley Jr., please visit our Tribute Store.

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Melodie Fitzwater Jeansonne
March 14, 1968 – June 14, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Stanley David Bohrer
December 18, 1940 – June 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 11am at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Marlow Deshea Trottie
January 1, 1990 – June 8, 2026
Service: Friday, June 19, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Alexandria.

James McQuain
February 21, 1961 – June 4, 2026
Service: Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 11am at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Virginia “Jenny” McCartney
January 31, 1951 – May 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Alexandria. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development has issued an emergency closure of Louisiana Highway 112 approximately 1.36 miles north of La. 113 due to roadway flooding from heavy rainfall.

The closure is effective immediately and will remain in place until water recedes and the roadway is safe to reopen. No estimated reopening time has been provided.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

For the latest road conditions, travelers can use the 511 system at 511 Louisiana Travel Information, call 511, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app. Updates are also available through MyDOTD at Louisiana DOTD.

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School Board Finance agenda includes services contracts

By JIM BUTLER

Today’s School Board Finance Committee agenda includes more than $900,000 in items among school systems’ pushback against Gov. Jeff Landry’s teacher salary stipend proposal.

Landry is seeking legislators’ approval to shift $38 million in state money for non-teaching costs (food service and transportation excepted) to keep the annual stipend funded.

Legislators have until next week to cast their on-line ballots.

The proposal is not on the agenda for today’s special board meeting at which several construction or food services bids will be considered.

Committee members today are asked to forward to the board’s July meeting agreements for non-teaching services that are part of today’s primary/secondary education world. They include:

• An instruction coach/manager related to conducting infant, toddler and pre-K Classroom Assessment Scoring System observations, providing feedback and coaching to teachers and site administrators, 30 hours weekly July-June 2027, $50 hourly;

• Speech services, two persons, 37.5 hours, $71 hourly plus mileage between schools;

• School psychologist services, one person, 37.5 hours, $75 hourly plus mileage;

• Occupational therapy for students, two persons, 37.5 hours, $70 hourly plus mileage;

• Physical therapy services to students, two persons, 37.5 hours, $70 hourly plus mileage;

• Nursing to students, five persons, 37.5 hours, $35 hourly plus mileage.

Also today the Education Committee will review proposed changes to the Policies Handbook and Student Code of Conduct.

One is a sign of the times- students would be officially prohibited from having outside food delivered to them via any one of the growing multitude of providers.

In the attendance section of policy parent notes would be acceptable for excusing up to four days absence on a school year and could be used consecutively or individually.

On the disciplinary menu an update requires administrators to confer with the Office of Child Welfare and Attendance when seeking to place students in In School

Suspension exceeding five days or out of school for four or more, and require contacting parents/guardians to inform the of the infraction involved.

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When it comes to Pilots for Patients, the free air transportation service for needy patients that started in Monroe some 19 years ago, Tracy Breithaupt is the go-to pilot in the Alexandria area.

Breithaupt, 57, is the CEO of TL Construction, an Alexandria company that offers commercial and industrial contracting, including road and highway building. But ever since he was a child he wanted to fly. Two years after he graduated from Louisiana Tech (1992) in construction engineering technology, he got his pilot’s license, and in 1994 this lanky fellow who prepped at LaSalle High in Olla, bought a Cessna 150, which he still flies.

In 2000, he moved to Alexandria after bouncing around from Ruston to Texas and Arkansas and joined the Civil Air Patrol, the civilian auxiliary for the U.S. Air Force. In 26 years in that capacity, he grew accustomed to search and rescue missions and lots of aerial photography after disastrous hurricanes. In the past year, he was named the CAP’s Louisiana Deputy Wing Commander.   

A friend and fellow pilot, the late Jimmy McDonald of Glenmora, encouraged him to join Pilots for Patients in 2017. This is a service whose goal is to “eliminate the burden of travel” for patients who need diagnosis or treatments at medical facilities not available to them locally.  The founder and CEO is Philip Thomas, a part-time pilot and businessman who is the president of Precision Paper & Board Inc. in Monroe.

While he was formerly involved with Angel Flight South Central, Thomas realized the immense, unmet need for flights specifically originating from Louisiana.  In December 2007, Thomas had a recurring dream over two consecutive nights that inspired him to dedicate himself to flying patients to specialized medical facilities.

To be eligible to join PFP, Breithaupt explained, you need a license, your own plane and you’ve got to pay for the trip expenses out of your own pocket.

“My goal for the first year was to do one mission a month,” he said. “I ended up doing 25 in my first year.”

As of last week, Breithaupt has done 169 missions. Although he said all the missions have been special, he had to stop talking for a while to compose himself when talking about James Drouin, a 5-month-old boy from Bunkie.

James has cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas and other organs. 

Tracy made the trip in May with James, then 4 months old, and his parents, M’Lee and Tanner, to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.

“That disease doesn’t discriminate whether you’re old or young,” Breithaupt said. “That’s a side of it (the travels) … I know it’s there, but I try to block it out because if you start thinking about it, it’s a terrible thing.”

True as that is, M’Lee said she and her husband have been blown away by the “caring, compassion and kindness” of everyone they have interacted with in the PFP program. 

She said young James needs monthly visits to Texas Children’s Hospital, and they have had different pilots for some trips. “Giving their time, money and resources like they do has been a blessing for us,” she said. 

It was a “complete shock” for M’Lee and her husband when they learned they were both carriers for cystic fibrosis, with neither of them nor their older siblings having had the disease themselves.  

Anyone wanting to take advantage of Pilots for Patients needs to get a referral from their doctor and then coordinate their flights with Stacy Hutto, the lead mission flight coordinator in Monroe.

Breithaupt has had some patients who have flown up to a dozen times with him, often to Houston’s M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. The late John Texada of Alexandria was one, and another is Lynn Black of Alexandria.

“Lynn asked me what my favorite thing was to eat, and I told her I really like a good steak,” said Breithaupt, who has a wife, Julie, and 27-year-old stepdaughter, Helen. “A few days after she returns from a trip, she’ll send me some of the thickest steaks you’ll ever want to see.”

“I have travelled with Tracy through the Pilots for Patients program for eight years now,” said Lynn. “He is very professional, caring, and truly a good person. I can never thank him enough, but  do know that he enjoys a good steak, so I treat him to these as a small gesture to make his heart smile. Tracy is a blessing to me.”

Told it was most generous of him to give his time and money for so many trips, Breithaupt said, “I’ve been blessed in my life; I’m just trying to pay back. The Lord’s blessed us. He’s given me the ability to fly. I find it rewarding. I’m trying to pay back.” 

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GAEDA to consider boosting records copy fee

By JIM BUTLER

GAEDA commissioners today will consider raising their recently adopted fee for public record copies to a level more in line with other local governmental bodies.

Back in December the Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority set the fee at 25 cents per page, the uniform rate for state agencies.

State law allows agencies to set “reasonable” fees. What is thought reasonable in Baton Rouge, however, is not necessarily considered that in Alexandria, or Loggy Bayou for that matter.

The rate under consideration at today is $1.25.

That fee is only for requested copies. There is no charge, at GAEDA or elsewhere, to view public records, though there is a clearly defined process for requesting as well as producing them.

Also today the commissioners will act on funding requests recommended by committee last week:

Rural Waterways Association state meeting, October, $40,000; United Most Worshipful King George Grand Lodge Grand Session of Louisiana 103rd Masonic Grand Lodge Grand Session, October, $20,000; Rapides Senior Citizens Golden Legends Red Carpet Celebration, August, $7,000; Genesis of Eve Catholic Ministries Conference, September, $15,000.

Absent from the agenda – any reference to personnel discussion. The Operations & Human Resources Committee was to hold an executive session last week to discuss the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health of a person.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office issued its weekly scam alert Monday after receiving reports of scammers attempting to trick residents into sending money by posing as law enforcement officials.

According to the sheriff’s office, family members of an individual who had recently been booked on charges were contacted by scammers who claimed money needed to be deposited through Chime to secure the person’s release or resolve the charges.

The complainant reported that the callers used background noises resembling those of a jail and even transferred the call to someone claiming to be a supervisor in an effort to make the scam appear legitimate.

Authorities said the targeted individual recognized the call as a scam and did not send any money.

The sheriff’s office reminded residents that law enforcement agencies do not call family members to request payment in exchange for releasing an arrested person or dismissing criminal charges.

Officials urged the public to remain cautious of unsolicited calls from individuals claiming to be law enforcement officers and requesting money, and encouraged residents to share the warning with friends and family to help prevent others from becoming victims.

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Louisiana Christian University has a new heart.

The beautiful new heart is one of the latest art installations of the Community Heart Project in central Louisiana, an initiative of the Alexandria/Pineville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The heart was donated by the owners of Louisiana Fireplace in Pineville, Kristetta and Chuck Miller, who are 1994 and 1993 LCU alumni, respectively. Kristetta is also a current student in LCU’s MBA program. The Millers’ daughter Emma is a 2023 graduate.

“I met my husband at LC,” she said. “LC is the reason I live in Pineville. It became my home, and I am still here 35 years later.”

The Pineville Downtown Development District held a presentation on the community project, and Kristetta Miller, a commissioner for the organization, said she loved the idea and knew she wanted to get involved.

She also knew exactly the artist she wanted to design and create the look of the heart.

Michael Williams, who is an art professor at LCU and an alumnus, worked with the Millers at Louisiana Fireplace years ago. 

“When I was first approached by Kristetta Miller, the patron of this project, in late 2025 to serve as the artist, I was ecstatic,” Williams said. “In February 2026, I began the design process by sketching concepts and exploring various compositions. Once I developed front and back designs that worked together cohesively and captured the spirit of the university, I created acrylic paint studies and submitted them for approval.”

After design approval, Williams said he began the work on the heart sculpture itself, using lightfast acrylic paints to ensure the colors will resist fading from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. From the initial sketches to the finished sculpture, the project took just less than two months to complete. 

“One side of the heart features an aerial view of campus, centered on Alexandria Hall and topped with the university’s institutional logo,” Williams said. “The reverse side showcases the iconic fountain at the heart of campus, accompanied by the classic LC logo. The entire piece is rendered in the university’s signature colors, orange and blue.”

Williams said his involvement in the project was incredibly meaningful to him.

“Louisiana Christian University has played a significant role in my life, both as a student and as an educator, making this project particularly rewarding,” Williams said. “I thoroughly enjoyed being part of it, and I hope that alumni, current students and future generations alike will feel that the artwork faithfully represents the university we all love.”

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson expressed his gratitude for the Millers for their generosity and unwavering love for the university.

“Some moments remind us that a university is more than building and classrooms, it is a community of people whose lives have been shaped by its mission,” Johnson said. “This beautiful Community Heart Project installation is one of those times.”

The dedication of the LCU heart by the Millers is especially meaningful to Johnson, he said, because he had the privilege of teaching their daughter Emma at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary before he became LCU’s president.

“This heart represents far more than art,” Johnson said. “It symbolizes community, legacy, generosity and the bonds that unite generations of Wildcats. Thank you to the Millers for this meaningful gift, and to Michael Williams for creating a beautiful tribute to the university we cherish. May this heart always remind us that LCU thrives because of the faithful support of those who believe in our mission.”

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Northwestern State University announces the names of Honor List students for the Fall 2025 semester. Students on the Honor List must be enrolled full-time at Northwestern and have a grade point average of between 3.0 and 3.49.

For questions regarding the Honor Roll, contact the NSU Registrar’s Office at (318) 357- 6171 or email registrar@nsula.edu.

Students listed by hometown are as follows.

Alexandria – Jayla Allen, Shakiya Allen, Brayleigh Briggs, Maggie Creamer, Bianca Dixon, Nyla Durant, E’Myia Hall, Kory Ham, Dexteria King, Trakayle Oneal, Alivia Piotter, Jordan Ray, Sadie Roberson, Kyra Sherman, Zoe Tanner, Taliyah Taylor, Devin Villar, Emma Walker, Shalonda Wells, Zenada Williams

Atlanta – Delia Serigny

Ball – Jesci Lord, Miriam Smart

Barksdale AFB – Brianna Cady

Benton – Niklaus Jordan, Olivia Kolb, Lucie McDearmont, Ava Pollard, Avery Tullos

Bossier City – Madeline Boyer, Emily Brown, Chloe Cannon, LaToris Cary, John Clinger, Alaina Culbertson, Amanda Doyle, Charisma Duncan, Carolyn Glaze, Delicia Glover, Elizabeth Gonzales, John-Michael Head, Duaa Husein, Jayden Jenkins, Haley Johnson, Maria Lara, Landan Lee, Danni Lynch, Natalie McCoy, James McKeown, Jaden Mccoy, Izabella Moreno, Mana Naser, Kierra Nelson, Avery Phillips, Nimra Rajput, Joshua Raschke, Cooper Ray, Tinsley Rowell, Karla Sanchez Hernandez, Avery Schoenborn, Emily Schoth, Samuel Sujana, Jeremiah Taylor, Ariel Vessells, Dagan Webb, Sara Webb

Boyce – Hannah Leslie

Calvin – Karlee Abels

Campti – Kylie Donald, Chloe Jordan, Jordan Kirts, Taylor Lebrun, Alexia Moore, Sabrena Scandurro

Cloutierville – Aleeya Jefferson

Converse – Logan Carter, Riley Downs, Preslye Rivers

Coushatta– Adrianna Bradford, Sarah Cormier, Latoya Gray, Carlena Henry, LaFrances Jones, Lillye Pardue, Rozalyn Taylor

Dodson – Kyle Brown, Dakota Thomas, Hunter Vines

Elm Grove – Macy Scott, Kaylee Thornton, Zhane Vailes

Elmer – Katelynn Riggs

Florien – Malayna Abels, Delana Johnson, Charles Krumholtz, Lexi LaRoux, Rylie Sigler

Forest Hill – Vivian Montalvo, Kari Polakovich

Frierson – Jozey Isom

Gloster – Raven Fields

Goldonna – Halle Roton

Grand Cane – Nickalas Wadsworth

Greenwood – Emelia Salter

Haughton – Aubrey Bass, Wynter Clark, Lauren Coleman, Quinton Coleman, Maryana Croft, Chloe Dettrey, Taylor Eggleton, Aliya Green, Alyson Marmaduke, Jordyn McDonald, Tucker Melton, Fernecia Mitchell, Emilie North, Mya Webb, Katherine Wilson

Hineston – Hailey Nolen, Kathryn Rabalais

Homer – Seth Thurman

Ida – Ella Teer

Keithville – Addison Boyd, Peytan Collier, Katie Hester, Brittany Lee

Logansport – Kelsey Bolden, Jaylie Smith, Ariel Williams

Mansfield – Shaniyah Blaze, London Carter, Mckayla Courtney, Brittany Davis, Reina Gillyard

Many – Levi Booker, Colton Boswell, Ava Brown, Savanah Hall, Sontee Jones, Edward LaFollette, Kheria Leshay, Ava McElwee, Emma Peace, Allayiah Thomas, Kierstyn Williams, Olivia Williams

Marthaville – William Campbell

Mooringsport – Kayla Brock, Peyshance Peek

Natchez – Devin Blake, Skylar Braxton, Josiah Conant, Braylon Normand

Natchitoches – Cayleigh Addison, Londyn Alexander, Moly Sofia Amezquita, Tony Arnold, Ana Baltazar-Lorenzo, Samuel Brunson, Luci Carr, Lucas Childs, Lennon Cooke, Camin Cooper, Aaliyah Creekmore, Cameron Dauzat, Cadence Flournoy, Zelia Frazier, Athina Grigoriadou, Atalaya Hall, Miranda Harrison, Fredy Hernandez, Rafael Hernandez Olmeda, Madison Hicks, Morgan Hunter, Shanice Hutson, Deitra Jackson, Jadah Johnson, Mackenzie Kanehl, Gabriela LaCour, Ella Lilyasta Laning, Helena Liljeberg, Logan Lonadier, David Lupton, Hannah Maggio, Keegan Martinez, Isabella McCall, Evan McDonough, Jennifer McKinney, Anna-Clare Melancon, Avery Myers, Isabela Piedrahita, Gabriel Polo Gomez, Jordan Pursell, Audrey Rasmussen, Valentina Restrepo, Eleya Saba, Marcela Sabillón, Grace Samaha, Maya Smith, Kaylee Stacy, Zoey Suire, Haylee Tousek, James Trindle, Ashlyn Underwood, Hailey Walker, Emily Ware, Hannah Watkins, Meredith Weathers, William Wilson, Elijah Witman

Noble – Paisleigh Rivers

Pineville – Michael Bergeron, Makaylah Brothers, Alfred Gaines, Gabriel Gautier, Evyn Goree, Rilee Hebert, Kiersten Huff, Malik Marzett, Sebastian Molette, Ashleigh Moses, Jessica Nugent, Annmarie Sanders, Ashlyn Saucier, Corbin Smith, Kelsei Spears, Andrew Thiels, Hailee Vines, Candon Wall, Brittany Welch

Pitkin – Carter Tarpley, Destiny Willis

Pleasant Hill – Abigail Bozeman

Pollock – Gabriel Beeson, Landen Roberts

Provencal – Elizabeth Shirley

Ringgold – Jenna Braggs

Robeline – Kristin Bull, Emily Miller, Christopher Paligo, Samuel Pickett, Keith Vascocu

Shreveport – Brody Abraham, Madison Adams, Daniel Anderson, Jamesia Balthazar, Asia Barba-Nsirim, Mariah Barnes, Chelsea Barrett, Anna Marie Bautista, Sharye Belcher, LaShaun Bolden, Kyrah Brown, Meredith Calahan, Ayden Cowell, Anderson Davis, Tyler Dupuis, Sharmaine Dy, Za’Miracle Edwards, Jadyn Espinosa, Rickayla Fleeks, Dezani Fountain, David Gallagher, Nicole Gipa, Precious Green, Marquasia Griffin, KaBreyha Harris, Yasmeen Hasan, Piper Haynes, Zoe Hearron, J’Niya Hill, Miyah Hinton, Cniyah Housley, Logan Hunter, Ryann Jackson, Shakayia James, Bree Launey, Tronja Lewis, Maria Lomas, Sara Mangum, Jacqueline Martinez, McKinley Miller, Dontrice Mitchell, Addison Monk, Kaden Morrison, Sophia Mouton, Samantha Muslow, Roxanne Myers, Julliex Nyachae, Liam Pachankis, Kendall Parker, Rebecca Parker, Maximillian Pinkney, Demarcus Reid, Anna Reynolds, Tamia Richardson, Brandi Robinson, Nickolas Robinson, Raelyn Robinson, Makensley Sugar-Bruce, AYana Taylor, Canya Turner, Mariah Walpool, Lauren Walsworth, Zoe Williams

Stonewall – Carter Ball, Eloise Boudreaux, Sierra Dean, Aja Douglas, Hunter Hanson, Emily Turner, Macy Wiley

Trout – Alison Bohannon

Winnfield – Catheryn Busha, Hayley Duke, Anthony Knight, MaKayla Shelton

Zwolle – Charlea Britt, Camryn Cartinez, Gracie Leone, Kade Meshell, Christian Rivers, Alexis Sepulvado, Malaysha Williams

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