Alexandria International Airport air traffic control manager retires after more than 40 years of service

Alexandria International Airport congratulated Air Traffic Control Manager Ray Schindler upon his retirement following more than 40 years of combined military and civilian service to the U.S. Air Force and Louisiana Air National Guard.

Schindler began his career in 1986 as an enlisted air traffic controller at Hammond Municipal Airport. He earned his commission in 1991 and served as the first commander of the Louisiana Air National Guard’s 259th Air Traffic Control Squadron in Alexandria in 1998.

Schindler retired from military service as a lieutenant colonel in 2017 and then served as air traffic manager for AEX Tower as a civilian USAF employee.

His career included roles with the LAANG Counterdrug Task Force, the 159th Fighter Wing and the Air National Guard Commissioning Academy.

AEX Director of Planning and Development Scott Gammel said Schindler’s service and commitment to the organization set a standard of excellence and expressed his appreciation for their professional partnership and friendship.

Alexandria International Airport thanked Schindler for his dedication to the nation and AEX and wished him well in retirement.


Louisiana Central wins two SEDC honors for economic development, communications

Louisiana Central received two honors from the Southern Economic Development Council, with its Business Acceleration System earning the 2026 SEDC Community Economic Development Award and its “We Make Good Stuff” 10-Parish Roadshow being named Best in Show in the 2026 SEDC Communications Awards.

The honors were presented during SEDC’s Annual Conference in Bonita Springs, Florida, Aug. 17-18. Louisiana Central President and CEO Chris Masingill accepted the awards on behalf of the organization and its regional partners.

The Business Acceleration System was recognized for its impact on entrepreneurs, businesses and job creation and its role in strengthening the region’s economic resilience. The program provides business coaching, education and resources to entrepreneurs through funding from The Rapides Foundation.

The “We Make Good Stuff” 10-Parish Roadshow was recognized for its creativity, innovation and impact in highlighting manufacturers, producers, workers and businesses across Central Louisiana.

The initiative showcased the region’s industrial and manufacturing capabilities and highlighted companies creating products that reach markets beyond Central Louisiana.

The two awards recognize Louisiana Central’s work in creating economic impact and highlighting the region’s businesses and people.

Through its First 100 Days Regional Listening & Business Outreach Tour, Louisiana Central leadership engaged with more than 180 businesses, industry leaders and community stakeholders while traveling more than 1,800 miles across Central Louisiana.

The Southern Economic Development Council represents 17 states and Washington, D.C., across the American South. Its Community Economic Development Awards recognize communities that have made significant contributions to economic and community development vitality.


Pineville Police Sergeant Derek Parker announces retirement

The Pineville Police Department announced the retirement of Sgt. Derek Parker after more than a decade of service to the Pineville community.

Parker began his law enforcement career with Pineville as a reserve officer, serving for approximately 4 1/2 years before being hired as a full-time officer in 2013.

Parker began as a patrol officer and earned numerous letters of commendation for his dedication and service. During his career, he became an Emergency Vehicle Operations Instructor, training officers who serve with the Pineville Police Department.

Parker also became involved in the Hunter’s Safety Program and later transitioned from patrol to the DARE Program, where he impacted young people throughout the community.

Parker also volunteered within the local school system, participating in programs such as archery and other youth activities.

After being promoted to sergeant, Parker returned to patrol, where he served as a shift supervisor.

The department said Parker served Pineville with respect, integrity and compassion and left a lasting impact on the community.

Due to a recent medical diagnosis, Parker was required to enter retirement earlier than expected.

The Pineville Police Department thanked Parker for his service, friendship, leadership and commitment to the community and wished him a happy and healthy retirement.


Three juveniles arrested after reported gunfire on Messer Street in Pineville

The Pineville Police Department was dispatched on Aug. 21 to the 100 block of Messer Street in reference to reports of gunshots.

Upon arrival, officers located evidence indicating that at least one firearm had been discharged. Officers detained four individuals while investigators conducted an investigation.

As a result of the investigation, three individuals were arrested and charged with illegal use of weapons and possession of a handgun by a juvenile.

Those arrested and booked at RPDC1 were:

  • Treyvion Miller, 17
  • Ezekial Hayward, 17
  • Lawrence Kimble, 17

Multiple firearms were recovered and seized as evidence in connection with the investigation and will be submitted as evidence for prosecution.

The Pineville Police Department said it takes the unlawful discharge of firearms within the city seriously and will investigate incidents involving the unlawful discharge of firearms and take appropriate steps to hold those responsible accountable through the criminal justice system.

The department encouraged parents, guardians and community members to talk with young people about the dangers of gunfire.

The investigation is ongoing. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.


Pineville man draws $300k bail for three contempt charges

Arrests are accusations, not convictions

Aug. 23

Johnta Patterson, 32, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Michael Shawn Rose II, 37, St. Petersburg, Fla. – illegal possession of stolen things, monetary instrument abuse, no bail data.

Aug. 22

Phoeby Shantrell Easley, 38, Alexandria – OWI first offense, aggravated obstruction of highway, battery on officer, $6,500 bail;

Raquel Carolina Gonzalez, 27, Alexandria – OWI second offense, speeding, $1,600 bail;

Emmanuel Earl Jewett, 42, Campti – domestic abuse battery, criminal trespass, $2,000 bail;

Derrick Gerard Johnson, 43, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, possession of a synthetic cannabinoid, obstruction of justice, $2,600 bail;

Jamartrez Kevonte Letron Jones, 24, Natchez – trafficking of children for sexual purposes, purchase of commercial sexual activity with minors, $100,000 bail;

Shailyn Kirkland, 18, Welsh – unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, $5,000 bail;

Kevontae Lockett, 17, Alexandria – possession of a handgun by a juvenile, $1,000 bail;

Deboreon Martin, 37, Pineville – two counts sex offender failure to register/renew, possession of marijuana, speeding, running a stop sign, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, $900 bail;

Sally Terese Moore, 44, Pineville – simple assault, resisting an officer, $1,000 bail;

Achillius Fael Payne, 17, Alexandria – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, possession of handgun by a juvenile, $15,000 bail;

Jeremy Lamar White, 34, Alexandria – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $2,000 bail.

Aug. 21

Laportia Allen, 28, Natchitoches – second degree cruelty to juveniles, $50,000 bail;

Candace Emanual Mike Frank, 41, Alexandria – aggravated strangulation domestic abuse battery, $300,000 bail;

Ezekial Hayward, 17, Pineville – illegal use of weapons, possession of a handgun by a juvenile, $4,000 bail;

Lawrence Deshun Kimble, 17, Pineville – possession of a handgun by a juvenile, illegal use of weapons, $4,000 bail;

Victoria McGoogan, 25, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, $5,500 bail;

Treyvion Miller, 17, Pineville – possession of handgun by a juvenile, illegal use of weapons, $4,000 bail;

Chaquirion Trikel Allendez Parker, 30, Alexandria – possession of CDS, criminal trespass, $500 bail;

Brianna Marie Price, 26, Pleasant Hill – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Esaw Owens, 37, Alexandria – trafficking of children for sexual purposes, purchase of commercial sexual activity, $100,000 bail;

Jeremy Dewayne Wilson, 34, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $40,000 bail.

Aug. 20

Deveron Dewayne Balthazar, 38, Alexandria – simple burglary, flight from officer, no insurance, switched license plate, expired registration, parole violations, probation violation, $20,800 bail;

Robert Wayne Brossett Jr., 23, Alexandria – violation of protective orders, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, $15,000 bail;

Angelle Grace Dauzart, 18, Boyce – simple battery, two counts contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Aaron Lawrence Freeman, 19, Alexandria – illegal use of weapons, concealed negligent carry handgun, $100,500 bail;

Karlos Jones, 48, Alexandria – DWI first offense, reckless operation, driving under suspension, no insurance, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, stalking, battery of a dating partner, parole violations, $17,315 bail;

Tyaisha Madden, 24, Alexandria – second degree cruelty to juveniles, resisting an officer, $10,500 bail;

Christopher Lloyd Munger, 55, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, resisting an officer, simple robbery, $30,500 bail;

Kenya Katrice Nash, 44, Alexandria – contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Marlene G. Norman, 58, Forest Hill – OWI fourth offense, $100,000 bail;

Renisha Nicole Patterson, 19, Alexandria – theft, aggravated battery of a police officer, aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, $20,500 bail;

Richard Matthew Riley Sr., 39, Pineville – three counts contempt of court, $300,000 bail;

Samantha Marie Sanburn, 33, Ball – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, failure to secure registration, no insurance, tail lamps red light, $2,300 bail;

Raymond Louis Sanders, 26, Alexandria – concealed negligent carry handgun, three counts contempt of court, $15,500 bail;

Clarence Stafford, 36, Cypress, Texas – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, improper lane usage, $75,100 bail;

Tonya Shontay Tibbs, 48, Colfax – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of firearm with obliterated serial number, open container, contempt of court, resisting an officer, $8,100 bail;

Edward Williams, 27, Pineville – second degree cruelty to juveniles, probation violation, $10,000 bail.

Aug. 19

Joshua Lynn Andries 35, Woodworth – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $105,000 bail;

Andrew Howard Ballott, 30, Pineville – stalking, remaining on premises, $5,250 bail;

Mara Burton Edwards, 62, Alexandria – OWI first offense, obstruction of court orders, $1,500 bail;

Taurean Jackson, 40, Alexandria – theft, possession of fentanyl, possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, theft, parole violations, $13,000 bail;

Lorenzo Jewitt, 36, Alexandria – simple burglary, criminal trespass, false imprisonment, violation of protective orders, home invasion, simple burglary, three counts contempt of court, parole violations, $78,500 bail;

Cecil Earl Phillips Jr., 49, Alexandria – theft, criminal trespass, two counts contempt of court, probation violation, $21,000 bail.


Remembering Callie Craig Voorhies

Funeral services for Callie Craig Voorhies will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 25, 2026, in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Pineville, with Brother Shane Guillory officiating. The burial will be at Wise Chapel Cemetery, Ruby.

Pallbearers will be Josh Colson, Jackson Dupuy, Masyn Bailey, Kyle Cole, Riley Gaspard, and Cameron Miller. The honorary pallbearer will be Bruce Hockersmith.

The family requests that visitation be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Hixson Brothers, Pineville, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. Voorhies, 92, of Kolin, passed from this life on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Oak Haven Nursing Home.

She was a member of Palmer Chapel Presbyterian Church for over 60 years. She loved her family. She loved the holiday, so she could cook the best fried chicken and mac and cheese.

Mrs. Voorhies was preceded in death by her husband of 75 years, Abner Voorhies; parents, John Napolian and Valeri Jones Craig; brothers, Arty “Bud” Craig, Bo Craig, Carl Craig; sisters, Mellie Craig Thornhill, Clair Craig Grassley, Bertie Craig Pennington, Norma Craig Peart, Dorothy Craig Bryant and Georgia Ray Craig Bordelon.

Those left to cherish a lifetime of memories include her sons, Jimmy Voorhies and wife, Theresa, Bryan Voorhies and wife, Melissa; daughter, Marsha Laprairie and husband, Dale; nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends.


Remembering Ellen Ann Holland Gray

Funeral services for Ellen Ann Holland Gray will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria, with Reverend Todd Strain officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Memorial Gardens, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

Pallbearers will be Dan Dodson, David Carroll, Jim Ford, Cody Carroll, Marc Dinnat, and Joel Dinnat. The honorary pallbearer will be Bill Holland.

The family requests that visitation be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church from 10:00 a.m. until service time.

Ellen, 89, of Alexandria, passed from this life on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at her residence.

Ellen was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, where she taught Choir, Missions, Sunday School, and New Believer’s Class to preschoolers, children, and youth for many years. She enjoyed sewing, cooking, and dining out, but most especially spending time with family.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, William Morris and Donie Delores Duckworth Holland; sister-in-law, Mary Holland; and brother-in-law, Doody Dinnat.

Those left to cherish a lifetime of memories include her husband of 68 years, Ben Gray; daughters, Sharon Dodson and husband, Dan; Karyn Carroll and husband, David; Laura Gray and husband, Jim Ford; sister Janice Dinnat; and brother, William “Bill” Holland, III and wife, Katherine Pittman Holland. Ellen was beloved “Nanny” to six grandchildren: Sarah Dodson Fortenberry and husband Jeremy; Hailey Dodson Singletary and husband Kevin, Kaitlyn Carroll, Cody Carroll and wife Reagan, Jacob Ford, Em Ford, and eight great-grandchildren.


Rapides Parish coach, bus driver arrested on human trafficking charges

The Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit (LSP SVU), working in coordination with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, conducted an undercover chat operation on Aug. 21 in Alexandria and surrounding areas. The operation resulted in the arrest of 37-year-old Esaw Owens III.

During the operation, undercover law enforcement officers communicated with Owens regarding sexual acts in exchange for money. As a result of the operation and information obtained, Owens was arrested for human trafficking of children for sexual purposes and purchase of commercial sexual activity. Owens is employed by the Rapides Parish School Board as a coach and bus driver. He was transported to the Rapides Parish Correctional Facility and processed on the charges.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.

LSP SVU works to rescue and seek justice for the victims of crimes involving the exploitation of children and the trafficking of humans for sex or labor. The public plays an important role in identifying suspects accused of these crimes and is urged to report criminal or suspicious activity. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through an anonymous reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be found by visiting http://la-safe.org/and clicking on the “Suspicious Activity” link.


Counting up

By JIM BUTLER

Notes from recent legislative audit postings:

District Attorney

The District Attorney Office governmental fund balance grew to $1.8 million, according to its 2025 audit.

The General Government Fund had revenue of $6.4 million and expenses of $5.9 million.

Fines, fees and commissions accounted for $$2.4 million and intergovernmental transfers $4 million. 

General judicial expenses took $5.3 million. 

Pineville Housing

Federal grants totaling $1.6 million paced operating revenue of the Housing Authority of Pineville. Its audit also reflects $446,000 in tenant revenues. 

On the spending side federal housing repayments took $924,000 and administrative and management fees required $405,000. 

The audit show 121 FHAP-owned units and 165 participating in the Section 8 vouchers program.

Net position of the Authority grew to $2.33 million. 

Ward 10 Recreation

Ward 10 Recreation District’s Fund Balance grew to $1.1 million, all unrestricted, auditors report. 

Revenues were $991,000, virtually all from dedicated property tax. 

Net expenses were $614,000. 

The district net position increased to $5.8 million, reflecting capital assets of $4.7 million.


United Way of Central Louisiana celebrates new campaign with community kick-off

United Way of Central Louisiana launched its new campaign on Aug. 20, during a Community Campaign Kick-Off & Ribbon Cutting Celebration at the Alexandria Museum of Art.

The event brought together friends, neighbors and community partners to kick off a new campaign dedicated to making a difference throughout Central Louisiana.

The event included a collaborative community art project, with attendees participating in the artwork.


Long overdue NSU-LCU reunion: back on the same field, if not the same orbit

When Blaine McCorkle spoke at the annual Independence Bowl/Northwestern State Kickoff Luncheon in Shreveport Thursday, the Demons’ third-year football coach didn’t mention the rare opportunity ahead for fans at NSU’s season opener in Turpin Stadium next Thursday night.

He covered half of it, the football part. He did not mention the moon. 

A week from tonight brings a partial lunar eclipse and something far more rare, the Northwestern State football team playing the Louisiana Christian Wildcats.

The eclipse should start in the fourth quarter, about 9:30, according to pals at KSLA-TV in Shreveport. May be the most interesting thing happening at that point, if the Demons have their way.

Generally we get 2-3 partial or full moon eclipses every year. We haven’t seen NSU vs. LC since before Neil Armstrong took man’s first steps on the lunar surface. Ten months earlier, the Demons dumped the Wildcats 39-14, and LC dumped football entirely.

That was it, for the next 58 years. Maybe this year’s reunion was predestined. It’s precisely 58 miles from the Louisiana Christian campus to Turpin Stadium, says Mapquest.

The ‘60s were the last of the good ole days when what was forever known as Louisiana College played Louisiana Tech, McNeese, Southeastern and Northwestern. The Wildcats were in the Gulf States Conference for years, until the Pineville college discontinued its football program after the ’68 season. It was dormant for more than 30 years, until it rekindled around the turn of the century. 

It took a few seasons for the Wildcats to get their footing, but Dennis Dunn, now in his 11th season steering the powerhouse North DeSoto High School program, was the architect of the recovery. From 2005-17, he lifted LC to unprecedented success, with a 65-45 record in his 11 seasons on the Pineville campus. 

Maybe his best player was quarterback Ben McLaughlin, whose name is all over the Wildcats’ offensive records for piling up passing yards and touchdowns, along with wins, from 2006-10. Not a shock: beginning with his 14 seasons (1992-2005) leading Evangel’s Eagles to their greatest heights, Dunn’s quarterbacks put up big numbers.

Now McLaughlin is coaching his alma mater, and in his second fall last year, produced a Sooner Athletic Conference championship in an 8-3 season. The Wildcats have bounced between NCAA Division III and lately, NAIA membership in football. 

Yikes! The FCS (used to be called Division I-AA, still should be) Demons are playing an NAIA team? 

Finally. Most of their Southland Conference rivals have regularly done it for years – teams like North American (in Houston, if you didn’t know), Bethel, Bacone, McMurry, Lincoln, Texas College … that’s just who Lamar has played. McNeese opened last season with a 54-9 rout over Louisiana Christian. In McLaughlin’s 2024 debut season, Houston Christian plastered the Wildcats 70-7.

McCorkle doesn’t expect a walk-over like that, although he surely hopes for one. 

The game is happening because at every level of college sports, with every kind of ball, games like this happen. It’s good business, if not good matchups. 

The visitors pick up a nice guarantee check for making the trip, and the home team almost always wins, gets to play the backups, “create depth,” and build confidence. The visiting players can build confidence too as they win some individual battles against what are generally bigger, stronger, faster and perceived to be more talented opponents, better than they’ll encounter in conference games. 

It can be, and will be, a win-win. The same rationale is true but the kicking shoe is on the other foot in the Demons’ second game, when they visit Ruston and Louisiana Tech opens its season. Then the Bulldogs go into Tiger Stadium on Sept. 12 … there’s a food chain. 

Outcomes are not predestined. Tech battled LSU for four quarters last year, just after Southeastern gave the Bulldogs fits a week before. Demon fans will forever treasure going to Aillet Stadium and enjoying a pre-planned postgame fireworks display, set to Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration,” after NSU’s 30-27 walk-off upset Sept. 20, 2014. (Confession: I didn’t have to look up the date.)

This NSU-LCU matchup may not intrigue many past the ardent fans of both schools and the teams involved, but bet your bottom dollar David Orr and Byron Dawson are interested. Centenary’s AD and football coach would love the chance to head down I-49 to Natchitoches and collect a relatively hefty payout like the Wildcats will.

The Gents aren’t ready quite yet, still wobbly as they play their third season back from the cobwebs of an even longer stall dating back to the late 1940s. Perhaps before the end of this decade Centenary and LCU might strike up an I-49 rivalry, and maybe along the same timeline, we might see Dawson’s team teeing it up in Turpin Stadium.

The games may not be close. But playing them is really good for both sides. 

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com


Update: Eight arrested in Alexandria homicide investigation

The Alexandria Police Department has arrested five individuals in connection with the August 13, 2026, homicide of 20-year-old Patrick Battles III.

On Thursday, August 13, at approximately 10:50 p.m., officers responded to a local hospital regarding a gunshot victim. Battles succumbed to his injuries, and investigators later determined the shooting occurred in the 3700 block of 3rd Street.

Arrests Made

  • Tyler Winchester, 20 — Arrested Friday, August 14, and charged with illegal use of a weapon and negligent carrying of a weapon.
  • Tijah Foster, 21 — Arrested Monday, August 17, and charged with second-degree murder.
  • Xavier Walker, 21 — Arrested Monday, August 17, and charged with illegal use of a weapon and negligent carrying of a weapon.
  • Jamarion Williams, 22 — Arrested Monday, August 17, and charged with illegal use of a weapon and negligent carrying of a weapon.
  • Jaylynn Wayford, 22 — Arrested Monday, August 17, and charged with illegal use of a weapon and negligent carrying of a weapon.
  • Kenneth Morris, 19 — Arrested.
  • Aaron Freeman, 19 — Arrested.
  • Raymond Sanders, 26 — Arrested.

The Alexandria Police Department has announced that all three individuals previously listed as suspects sought — Kenneth Morris, Aaron Freeman and Raymond Sanders — have been arrested.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Freeman, Morris, or Sanders, or details concerning the homicide, is asked to contact the Alexandria Police Department.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. 


Alexandria Police encourage residents to register security cameras

The Alexandria Police Department is encouraging residents and businesses to voluntarily register the locations of their security cameras through Alex-Cam Connect.

According to APD, the program can help investigators determine whether video footage may be available near an incident.

Registration does not give officers live access to security cameras or recordings. Instead, it lets investigators know there may be video available nearby so they can contact the camera owner if footage could assist with an investigation.

Have a camera at your home or business? Learn more, read the FAQs and register at bit.ly/3UVKUO9


Remembering Gregory Yates

Gregory Yates, age 60, of Pineville, passed away August 6, 2026, in Hilltop Nursing and Rehab Center.
Greg was born in Ohio to the union of Donald and Wilma Yates. He was a hardworking man with a stubborn streak as strong as a mule. If Greg had made up his mind that he wasn’t going to do something, there wasn’t much anyone could say to change it.

Life was not easy. He carried things that he should have had the chance to work through, and those struggles became part of the man he was.

He was not perfect, and he would be the first to admit that. He wasn’t always the father his children needed, but in the ways he knew how, he tried to make amends. As time went on, he made sure he was there to meet and get to know each of his grandchildren.

Greg loved the outdoors and the things that made him feel free. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, fast cars and trucks, four-wheelers, and of course, having a cold beer in hand.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Wilma Yates and his brother, David Yates.

Those left to cherish his memory are his father, Donald Yates; his children, Kylee, Desiree, Cody; his grandchildren, Madeline, Evan, Kynslee, and Jordy, all of whom brought a special kind of joy into his life. He is also survived by his sisters, Lois, Pam, Nancy; and his brother, Chris.

Arrangements were placed in the care of Fall Creek Funeral Home, Pineville.


Remembering Jaden Christopher Richey

Jaden Christopher Richey, age 25, of Wheeling, WV, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at home.

He was born May 30, 2001, in Alexandria, LA.

He loved his computer and video games, making coffee and bread, cooking, and dogs, especially Princess.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Hazel Scott and Francis Richey; maternal grandmother, Catherine Maxwell; step- grandfather, Benny Maxwell; cousin, Miranda Roberts; nephew, Kason Higgs; and uncle William Maxwell.

Survivors include his mother, Amy Antley Richey; father, Chris Richey; one sister, Macey Richey; three brothers, Zakari Richey, Jacob (Haley) Higgs, Jaron Higgs; maternal grandfather, Thomas (Doris) Antley; one niece, Adelyn Higgs; two nephews, Kaden Higgs, Zakari Richey, Jr.; and various aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family with arrangements entrusted to Grisell Funeral Home and Crematory 1 Ridgecrest Rd Wheeling/Bethlehem.


Crime Stoppers complaint leads to narcotics, firearms arrest

On July 15th, 2026 Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit received an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers in reference to an individual, identified as John Fitzgerald Marshal, allegedly selling illegal narcotics from his residence in the 3000 block Olcutt Street. The case was assigned to an Agent and through their initial investigation, the complaint was quickly confirmed. As their investigation continued, Agents were able to establish sufficient probable cause and obtain a search warrant for Marshal’s residence.

On July 30th, 2026, RADE Agents executed the search warrant at 3101 Olcutt Street where Marshal and three other individuals were present at the time of the warrant service. A search of the residence was conducted and agents located approximately 10 ounces of Methamphetamine, approximately 6 ounces of Fentanyl, just under 1 ounce of powder cocaine, approximately 800 Ecstasy pills, approximately ¼ pound of high grade Marijuana, 52 Xanax pills, 4 firearms, one of which was reported stolen, and a variety of other prescription pills. Along with the narcotics and the firearms, Agents located $2134 in assorted U.S. currency.

Marshal was taken into custody without incident, placed under arrest and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center where he was booked on various narcotics related charges. Marshal was also provided with a Civil Asset Forfeiture Form for the seized cash.

Marshal remains in jail at the time of this release being held on a $710,000.00 bond.

RPSO has a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Task Force Officer who was contacted in reference to the firearms charges associated with this case for potential federal prosecution.

The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit is a multi-jurisdictional team comprised of the Alexandria Police Department, Ball Police Department, Boyce Police Department, Cheneyville Police Department, Forest Hill Police Department, Glenmora Police Department, Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office Lecompte Police Department, McNary Police Department, Pineville Police Department, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Woodworth Police Department, Grant Parish District Attorney’s Office, Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office, Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole and the FBI SAFE STREETS TASK FORCE.

The RADE Unit continues to target individuals suspected of trafficking narcotics in the Central Louisiana area. If you have information or would like to report any narcotics activity, you may do so by sending direct messages to the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Facebook page.

“ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW OR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.”

Arrestee: John Fitzgerald Marshal, 54, 3101 Olcutt Street, Alexandria, LA

Charges: Possession of CDS II (Methamphetamines) with Intent to Distribute; Possession of CDS II (Fentanyl) with Intent to Distribute; Possession of CDS II (Powder Cocaine) with Intent to Distribute; Possession of CDS I (Ecstasy) with Intent to Distribute; Possession of CDS I (Marijuana) with Intent to Distribute; Possession of CDS IV (Xanax) with Intent to Distribute; four counts of Illegal Carry of a Firearm with Narcotics; four counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon; Possession of CDS II (Oxycodone); Possession of CDS II (Methadone); Possession of a Stolen Firearm; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses. 


Historical marker unveiled at Hunter Street Cemeteries in Pineville

The City of Pineville, Mayor Bishop and the City Council joined the Pineville Downtown Development District for the official unveiling of a historical marker at Hunter Street Cemeteries.

The project was made possible through a partnership with Mark Wood and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, whose work helped clean up and restore the cemetery grounds to honor those laid to rest there.

Retired Mayor Clarence Fields was a special guest at the event and was invited to pull the cover and officially reveal the new marker to the community.

Local historian Mike Wynne was also recognized for his dedication and research that helped make the marker possible.

The City of Pineville thanked everyone who joined the event in preserving and celebrating Pineville’s heritage.


Rapides Parish public schools ranks ninth in state in DIBELS Early Literacy Assessment

Rapides Parish Public Schools ranked ninth in the state in student proficiency on the DIBELS early literacy assessment, and the district was recognized by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in Baton Rouge.

The ranking reflects the work of K-3 teachers providing literacy instruction, school and district leaders supporting the work, and families reading at home with their children.

DIBELS stands for Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills. The assessment is a screener that the district’s youngest students take three times a year. It measures foundational reading skills.


Louisiana’s expanded move over law now in effect

Louisiana State Police is reminding motorists that the state’s expanded Move Over Law is now in effect, extending protections to disabled, immobilized and nonoperational vehicles displaying hazard lights, flashing lights or another emergency warning device.

Under the expanded law, motorists approaching a roadside vehicle on a highway with two or more lanes traveling in the same direction should safely move into a lane away from the vehicle.

If changing lanes is unsafe or impossible, or if a motorist is traveling on a two-lane highway, drivers should slow to a reasonably safe speed and maintain a speed appropriate for road conditions.

The law applies regardless of whether motorists encounter blue emergency lights, amber warning lights or the flashing hazard lights of a stranded motorist.

Louisiana’s Move Over Law also continues to require motorists to yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles using audible or visual warning signals unless otherwise directed by a police officer.

Louisiana State Police emphasized that the law is intended to provide additional space for first responders, roadside workers and stranded motorists to remain safe.

“Different lights. Same responsibility,” Louisiana State Police stated. “Move over. Slow down. Give them room.”


Remembering Philip Christopher Jordan

Philip Christopher Jordan, 36, passed away August 15, 2026.

A native of Alexandria, Louisiana, son of David Jordan and the late Ruth Andrea Kraemer Jordan, he enjoyed many things such as the outdoors, hiking, camping, reading, and playing basketball.

Surviving in addition to his father are a brother, Brian Jordan (Katelyn) and a nephew, Kane Jordan.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Pelham First Baptist Church conducted by Pastor Patrick Clark.


Remembering Robert “Bobby” Harwood

Funeral services celebrating the life of Robert “Bobby” Harwood will be held at 12 noon on Saturday, August 22, 2026 in the Fall Creek Funeral Home Chapel, 1800 Military Hwy, Pineville, with Rev. Jennifer Williams officiating.

Visitation will begin on Saturday at 10:00AM until time of services, with burial to follow at Greenwood Memorial Gardens, Military Hwy, Pineville.

Robert Edgar Harwood, age 73, of Alexandria, passed away August 17, 2026, in his residence.

Bobby was a native of Alexandria. He retired as a switchman with Union Pacific Railroad after forty years of service. He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, watching old Western shows and movies, and listening to music with John Prine being one of his favorite artists. His greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren who held a very special place in his heart, and his fur babies.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard Rudy Harwood, Sr. and Marjorie Bareswill Harwood; his stepsons, Jerry E. “Woody” Gunn, Christopher Neilson Gunn; his brothers, David Allen Harwood, and Richard Rudy Harwood, Jr.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of thirty-one years, Janice Eznack Harwood of Alexandria; his brother, Kenneth Lambert of Alexandria; his sisters, Melba Gauthier of Alexandria, Mary Catherine “Kot” Harwood of Tioga; and two grandchildren, Maja Nikol Gunn and Eleeza Faye Gunn. He is also survived by extended family and numerous friends.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Richard Wade, Doyle Eznack, Aaron Gilchrist, Russell Lambert, Danny Guidry, and Chris Ducote. Honorary pallbearer will be Jerry Eznack.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Fall Creek Funeral Home, Pineville, Robbie Dauzat, Director.


Sides not close in proposed Dresser cleanup approach

By JIM BUTLER

$130 million.

That’s the approximate difference in costs of proposed cleanup-restoration plans offered for the 2012 Dresser Industries subsurface toxic release.

Baker Hughes, now Dresser’s parent company, in court-ordered filings this month, proposes as the Most Feasible Plan the use of intensive chemical applications and localized soil vapor extraction.

It previously noted its approach should put total cost for cleanup at about $30 million, including $24 million already spent.

Plaintiffs have until October 5 to object. Their previously proposed MFP has an estimated price tag of $165.6 million. It involves close to 50,000 chemical injection points in the path and vicinity of the underground plume of TCE and PCE.  

The timetable was set in April by U.S. District Judge David C. Joseph, who expressed his resolve to reach a denouement relatively soon in the case.

LADEQ has until December 7 to review the two sides’ responses.

Joseph will then schedule hearings, to be followed by his ordering a plan and requiring deposit with the court of the estimated cost.

Court records and DEQ samplings show the primary impact zone to be Aurora Park Subdivision located northeast of the now-closed plant.

Other locales specified are properties in and spanning the US Hwy 167-LA 3225 (commonly referred to as Tioga Road) corridor and interspersed rural and residential tracts directly in the path of the plume’s migration north.