Members of the Rotary Club of Pineville welcomed local healthcare provider Mandy Haggart as a guest speaker during a recent meeting.

Haggart, a family nurse practitioner and owner of Haggart Medical Clinic, shared her journey from her early beginnings in healthcare to fulfilling her goal of opening her own medical practice in April 2025.

During her presentation, Haggart discussed her years of experience in the medical field and her commitment to providing compassionate care to patients while meeting them where they are in their healthcare journeys.

She also highlighted the importance of faith, family and community involvement, speaking about efforts to give back through local sponsorships and support for those in need.

Rotary Club members thanked Haggart for sharing her experiences and recognized her dedication to service, leadership and healthcare within the community. The club wished her continued success as she grows her practice and continues serving residents in Central Louisiana.

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Funeral services for Melodie Fitzwater Jeansonne will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Pineville, with Reverend Jerry Crise officiating. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Brad Jeansonne, Christopher Jeansonne, Eric Jeansonne, Scott Jeansonne, Randy Jeansonne, and Austen Fitzwater. Honorary pallbearer will be Matt Davis.

The family requests that visitation be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Hixson Brothers, Pineville, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Mrs. Jeansonne, 58, passed from this life on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital.

During her working life, she was a Registered Nurse. The many joys in her life included her grandchildren, dogs, movies, football (especially the Pittsburgh Steelers), and Rock and Roll.

How do you see the spark of life? Take one look at Melodie, and you know you have seen it. She came into the world in Okinawa, Japan, on March 14, 1968. Born with a heart murmur, she knew from the youngest age that life would not be easy and that she would face challenges, and she was not afraid. That fearlessness would be her armor against whatever she would face. Her family and friends knew this well and often saw it whether they wanted to or not. Telling them to put their big girl/boy pants on and take on what was happening like she did every day. She never wanted the easy life, and she was not afraid. If you were her friend, she would defend you against any and all who would judge you, and she was not afraid. When choosing her path in the medical field, she first chose emergency medicine and later heart medicine. Not because it was easy. She chose it because it was challenging and she was not afraid. When she was diagnosed with Lupus and was told that having a child was not advised, she faced it because it was what she wanted, and she was unafraid. Extended exposure to sunlight is not the best place for someone with Lupus. Melodie chose the beach for vacations with her family because she was unafraid.

When she faced her final challenge, the one she could not beat, she told her husband and her daughter that she would be OK because she did not want them to be afraid. Melodie Fitzwater Jeansone took the world as she wanted it. Faced its challenges, took its obstacles, bent its will to her own because of her fierce loyalty, devotion to her family and her friends, with the spark of life because she was not afraid.

Mrs. Jeansonne was preceded in death by her parents, Donque W. and Ellen June Fitzwater.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Jeansonne; daughters, Madelyn French (Michael), Amanda Jeansonne; sons, Christopher Jeansonne (Carol), Brad Jeansonne; brother, Mark Fitzwater (Karen); seven grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends.

Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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Henry Lee (‘Brother’) Webb was born July 12, 1940, to Emmitt Webb and Mary Dent Webb in the small community of Lettsworth, Louisiana, in Pointe Coupee Parish. He was fondly known as Bro. Webb to all who knew him.

On January 27, 1962, he married Eloise Davis, and to this union one child, Shirley Webb Armstrong was born. Bro. Webb was baptized in 1975 by Rev. Ernest Lea, Sr. at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church. He was an active member at St. John Baptist Church in Lettsworth, LA, a member of the Deacon Board, a Sunday School teacher for many years, and a groundskeeper of the church. Bro. Webb attended Torres Community School and was extremely proud of the education he received.

He worked in farming and construction until his employment with the Atchafalaya Levee Board. His employment with the Levee Board spanned 25½ years until his retirement in 2002. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, gardening, and yard work. He loved cookouts and family gatherings. He was the family historian who could remember everyone and their families in detail. He truly loved his church family and had a pastor in every town.

Mourning his departure while cherishing his memory are his brothers, Thomas Webb of New Orleans, LA; Joseph Webb of New Orleans, LA; and Mack Webb (Denise) of Amite, LA; one sister, Annie Tolliver of New Orleans, LA; one son-in-law, Earl Armstrong of Simmesport, LA; sisters-in-law Juanita Davis of Batchelor, LA; Dorothy Lea of Dallas, TX; Barbara Holt of Lettsworth, LA; and Farlene Webb of Laplace, LA; a special friend, Audrey Franklin and her children; his godchildren: Ula Christal, Nicole Tolliver, Arleen D. Scott, Mary Lea Holmes, and Alonzo Webb; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Bro.

Webb was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt and Mary Webb; his wife, Eloise Webb; his daughter, Shirley Webb Armstrong; brothers Reuben Webb, Emmitt Webb, Jr, and Mel Webb; and sister, Delia Courtney. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.

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The Rapides Parish School Board has announced the appointment of Christy Dugas as the new principal of J.I. Barron Elementary School.

Dugas brings 31 years of experience in the Rapides Parish school system to her new position. She has served as principal of Paradise Elementary School since 2017 and previously worked as the school’s assistant principal.

In announcing her new role, Dugas said she is excited to join the J.I. Barron community and looks forward to building relationships with students, staff and families while fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

School officials cited Dugas’ extensive experience, dedication to education and commitment to student success as qualities that will serve the school well as she begins her tenure as principal.

The appointment marks a new chapter for J.I. Barron Elementary as the school prepares for the upcoming academic year under Dugas’ leadership.

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Rapides Parish athlete Alex Webb is preparing to represent Louisiana on the national stage as part of Team Louisiana at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota.

Special Olympics Louisiana announced that Webb will be among the athletes traveling to Minnesota, with Team Louisiana departing June 19 ahead of the competition, which runs June 20-26.

The Special Olympics USA Games bring together thousands of athletes from across the country to compete in a variety of sports while promoting inclusion, determination and excellence through athletic competition.

According to Special Olympics Louisiana, Team Louisiana athletes have spent months training and preparing for the event and are ready to showcase their skills while representing their communities and the state.

Webb will join fellow Louisiana athletes in competing against some of the nation’s top Special Olympics competitors during the weeklong event. The games are expected to draw athletes, coaches, volunteers and spectators from across the United States.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has announced a series of alternating lane closures in Alexandria beginning Monday, June 22 at 9 a.m., weather permitting, as part of the District 08 Flashing Yellow Arrow Upgrade Project.

The work will impact multiple corridors, including I-49, US 165 Business, LA 1, and LA 28 in Rapides Parish. Crews will conduct alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at several intersections, with one lane in each direction remaining open at all times.

Affected intersections include Bolton Avenue at Odom Street, Rapides Avenue, Elliot Street, and Jackson Street; Monroe Street at Texas Avenue; LA 28 at Barron Chapel Road; Broadway Avenue at Eddie Williams Avenue; and 3rd Street at Willow Glen River Road.

According to DOTD, the closures are required to install new mast arms on signal pole foundations and complete related construction work.

The project is scheduled for completion at all listed intersections by June 26, 2026, though timelines may shift due to weather and other construction factors.

The contract for the project was awarded to Jack B. Harper Electrical, LLC in the amount of $9,040,462.73.

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The City of Alexandria, Louisiana – Government will host a special Independence Day celebration titled “Rock the Red” on Saturday, July 4, in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

The event will take place at the Riverfront Amphitheater and Mini Park along the banks of the Red River, with festivities scheduled from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m.

City officials say the celebration will feature live entertainment, patriotic-themed programming, and family-friendly activities designed to highlight community spirit and national pride.

The event is free and open to the public, and residents are encouraged to bring family and friends to participate in the evening festivities. Additional details are expected to be released as the event approaches.

Paid Content

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Mr. Hubert Alvin “Sam” Baxter, age 86, entered eternal rest on Monday, June 15, 2026, in Alexandria at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital.

The Visitation will be held at Palestine Methodist Church on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Kevin Smith, and Bro. James T. Brunson officiating with interment to follow in the church cemetery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Lee Baxter and Mabel Courtney Baxter; siblings, Travis Baxter, Vermell Steede, and Christine Tucker.

Those left to share and carry on his memories include his wife of 61 years, Annie Lois Mathis Baxter; children, Peggy Brunson (Doug) and Alvin Baxter (Candi); siblings, Doris Brown, James Rayburn Baxter, Ollie Ruth Gilbert, and JoAnn Bellisle; grandchildren, Cody Brunson (Kaitlyn), Baxter Brunson (Susan), Hunter Baxter (Mandi), and Hayden Brunson; great grandchildren, Jaxon, Ellie, Rowan, and Everlee Brunson and Allie Baxter.

Mr. Baxter was a loving husband, and an exceptional father, grandfather, and brother. He was born in Washington County, Alabama. When he was a baby, his family moved to the Barton Community and he was raised on his parents’ farm in Barton, Mississippi. It was here that he learned that a good garden was a necessity. While attending Bason High School, he was Captain of the basketball team and voted Most Athletic. Mr. Baxter worked for Shell Oil Company for 28 years in Exploration and earned the nickname, “Sam”. After retiring, he and Annie Lois moved home to Mississippi. There he enjoyed doing landscape work with his brother and nephews. Nine years later they returned to Louisiana to enjoy their children and grandchildren. He was over the moon when his grandson’s blessed him with 3 long awaited great grand-daughters. He had a great sense of humor and never seemed to get into too much of a hurry. He was very methodical, patient, and kind. Any road trip with “Daddy” or “Paw” included listening to Patsy Cline and Marty Robbins. After he was introduced to YouTube, any visit with him included The Gaither’s. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his produce with friends, and neighbors. His kindness and generosity will be missed. He gave much love and was loved by many.

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With great sadness we announce that Katherine Louise Ellis, 33, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026. Born April 22, 1993, is survived by Matthew Ellis–father, Una Ellis–mother, and siblings Anthony and Annette. Birth mother to Ava, Elijah and Margaret.

Memorial and service will be held at Magnolia Funeral Home, 7357 Masonic Drive, Alexandria LA 71301, on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Viewing from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM. Service from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM.

For anyone that would like to come help us celebrate Katie Ellis, we are asking that everyone wears a little pink. Thank you.

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By JIM BUTLER

Financial disclosure statements indicate Ninth Judicial District judges have no business interests beyond property holdings and investment accounts.

Statements are required to be filed through the Louisiana Supreme Court annually. 

The seven judges, whose terms expire this year, include two reporting 2025 retirement income from previous legal careers.

Notes from each statement:

• Greg Beard – judicial salary, investments income less than $25,000; 

• Brian Cespiva – six months salary as assistant DA, 21/2 months judicial salary, before taking bench income as Pineville prosecutor, attorney for Ball, Glenmora, Alexandria and Leesville Fire & Police Civil Service Boards, $25,000-$100,000 DA retirement system; 

• Mary Doggett – statement not posted as of June 16. Her 2024 summary includes interest in two properties enterprises, income less than $30,000; 

• Chris Hazel – judicial salary, investments income less than $25,000; 

• Loren Lampert (inducted this month into Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame) – judicial salary, $100,000+ DA retirement system withdrawal; 

• Monique Rauls – judicial salary; 

• David Williams – judicial salary, income from family-owned rental property, $25,000-$100,000, sale of rental property, $100,000+, sale of commercial property, $100,000+, filed for extensions on federal and state income tax reports.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, June 17, at 3 p.m. in the Police Jury Meeting Room on the second floor of the Rapides Parish Courthouse, located at 701 Murray Street in Alexandria.

Jurors are scheduled to discuss and potentially take action on the final compensation study report prepared by SSA Consultants. The report is expected to be presented by Mr. Overton.

The agenda also includes consideration of a request from Shirley McTire for approval of five additional lots at 1380 Palmer Chapel Road in Pineville. The request has been recommended for approval by the Rapides Area Planning Commission and remains pending review by legal counsel.

The meeting will include an opportunity for public comment on agenda items before discussion and action by the Police Jury.

Following consideration of the agenda items, the meeting will adjourn.

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Rapides Parish will see an active stretch of weather through the end of the week with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms, followed by intensifying summer heat heading into early next week.

Wednesday brings a mix of partly sunny skies and humid conditions, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. Highs will reach the upper 80s with south winds around 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Rain chances are near 50 percent.

Wednesday night turns mostly cloudy, with a continued chance of showers in the evening becoming more likely overnight along with thunderstorms. Lows will settle in the mid 70s with southeast winds shifting north after midnight. Rain chances increase to about 70 percent.

Thursday is expected to be one of the more active weather days, with showers likely and thunderstorms developing through the afternoon. Highs will hover around 90 degrees, but heat index values could climb up to 105. South winds will remain light at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Rain chances remain high at 70 percent.

Thursday night stays unsettled with a chance of showers and thunderstorms under partly cloudy skies. Lows will be in the upper 70s, with a 40 percent chance of rain.

Juneteenth continues the active pattern with partly sunny skies and likely showers. Thunderstorms are possible in the morning, becoming more likely in the afternoon. Highs will reach the lower 90s with heat index values up to 105. Rain chances remain around 70 percent.

Friday night stays mostly cloudy with a chance of thunderstorms and showers. Lows will be in the mid 70s with rain chances near 50 percent.

Saturday will feature mostly cloudy skies early, becoming partly sunny later in the day with scattered showers and thunderstorms possible. Highs will be in the lower 90s with a 50 percent chance of rain.

Saturday night stays partly cloudy early, turning mostly cloudy overnight with lows in the mid 70s.

Sunday brings a brief break in activity with mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower 90s. Heat index values could again reach up to 105.

Sunday night will be mostly clear early, becoming partly cloudy with lows in the upper 70s.

Monday rounds out the period with mostly sunny skies and hotter conditions, as highs climb into the mid 90s. Heat index values could peak near 110, making it the hottest day of the stretch so far.

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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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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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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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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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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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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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