Private Graveside services for Mrs. Rose Ellen Jones Franklin will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Restland Memorial Gardens, Pollock, with Reverend Anthony Mangun officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Rose, 89, was raised in Trout, Louisiana. She was the only girl and the middle child, a role she filled with grit, determination, and a spark of spitfire that stayed with her throughout her life. Though small in stature, she was mighty in force.

At just sixteen years old, Rose married Richard, beginning a partnership rooted in commitment and love. Together, they built a beautiful life together centered on faith and family.

Rose devoted her life to caring for and serving others. During her career, she worked in education as a special needs teacher’s aide, diligently with heart and patience. She carried that same dedication into her faith, remaining deeply loyal to her church family through service. For years, she faithfully taught Sunday school, cooked for hundreds of ministers, and served in many other capacities at The Pentecostals of Alexandria.

Her hospitality was an extension of her faith, and many were nourished not only by her meals, but by her kindness and generosity. Her home was often referred to as a “revolving door” because she had company in and out on a daily basis.

Rose treasured her mall walks and coffee gatherings with friends, and she had a special talent for ceramics, creating pieces that will be cherished for years to come.

Selfless to the core, Rose loved with her whole heart, always placing the needs of others before her own. Family was her greatest joy, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she affectionately called her “grands and greats.” They were her pride, her joy, and the light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband of sixty-seven years, Richard Franklin; her parents, Albert and Ethel Jones; and her brother, R.B. Jones.

Those left behind to miss her are her twin sons, Ronald Franklin and Donald Franklin; her son, Glen Franklin; one brother, Paul Jones; grands, Chad Franklin (Kelly), Clint Franklin, Ryan Franklin (Angie), Kevin Franklin, and Avery Thiels (Tommy); greats, Kloe Wright (Chris), Cooper Franklin, Haleigh Franklin, Caleb Franklin, Olivia Franklin, Neil Franklin, Janie Franklin, Anna Franklin, and Taylon Thiels; and one great-great grandchild, Caspen Wright.

Rose’s faith, strength, and fiery spirit leaves a lasting imprint on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by the family she helped build, along with her many nieces, nephews, and friends she served so faithfully. The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Taylon Thiels, Neil Franklin, Cooper Franklin, Clint Franklin, Todd Durham, and Brent Croom. Honorary pallbearers will be Kim Owens and Tommy Thiels.

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Visitation for Peggy Friday Danielson, 85, of Pineville, LA will be held from 2 P.M. until 3 P.M., Friday, February 13, 2026 at Rockett-Nettles Funeral Home, Coushatta, LA with graveside services immediately following at Wallace Cemetery in the Wallace Community.

Mrs. Danielson was born June 18, 1940 in Coushatta, LA and passed away February 11, 2026. After her retirement, Mrs. Danielson managed Four Seasons Bowling Center where she enjoyed bowling and made many friends. She also enjoyed the outdoors working with her flowers. She always had a yard full of beautiful blooming azaleas. She loved her family dearly and cherished the times spent and memories made with her children and grandchildren. Her pets, especially her dog, George W., were very special to her. She will be truly missed by all those who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, C.R. “Mike” and Hazel Friday; and one brother, Shelby Friday.

Mrs. Danielson is survived by her husband, Steve Danielson of Pineville, LA; children, Craig Danielson of Colfax, LA, Charles Danielson and wife, Charlet “Dinky” of Zachary, LA, Gary Danielson and wife, Louellan of Pineville, LA, and Lori Doyle and husband, Albie of Alexandria, LA; siblings, Randy Friday and wife, Becky and Paula Greer and husband, John; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Cory Danielson, Reed Danielson, Taylor Danielson, Mason Danielson, Logan Friday, and Kendall Friday. Honorary pallbearers will be Kerry Barrett and Trystan Leggett.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises the public that on Monday, Feb. 16 at approximately 7 a.m., emergency bridge repairs will begin on the portion of I-49 northbound over the Diversion Canal near mile marker 62 in Rapides Parish. This bridge was struck by an 18-wheeler in December 2025.

In conjunction with these repairs and the current northbound left lane closure, the southbound left lane of I-49 at this location will have intermittent lane closures for the duration of this project.

This emergency repair project consists of pile replacement and related work.

This contract was awarded to C.E.C., Inc. in the estimated amount of $587,000.

Permit/Detour section
There are no detours at this time associated with these lane closures.

Safety Reminder
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information
Call 511, visit www.511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app for additional travel information. Out-of-state travelers may call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov, by selecting MyDOTD, or by visiting the DOTD Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

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The City of Pineville is taking a major step toward revitalizing its riverfront with the Founders Pavilion project. Following a City Council meeting, Mayor Bishop and council members passed a resolution advancing the project into its next critical phases.

The resolution clears the way for final land acquisitions to secure public access and the beginning of construction, including engineering and site preparation. The Founders Pavilion is designed to be a central gathering space for the community, offering live music, events, and scenic views of the Red River.

City officials describe the project as an investment in Pineville’s quality of life and a new centerpiece for the city’s waterfront. The public can view the design vision for the pavilion in an accompanying video shared by the city.

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The Alexandria Museum of Art is celebrating the 2026 Gifted and Talented student art winners from across the Rapides Parish School District.

The exhibition showcases the creativity, talent, and imagination of students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The works are now on display in the AMoA Community Galleries through Saturday, Feb. 28.

Winners include:

Kindergarten – 2nd Grade

• 1st Place: Daisy McKay, The Pumpkin Patch, 2025, Mixed media

• 2nd Place: Allie Townsend, Flower Pot, 2026, Ceramic

3rd – 5th Grade

• 1st Place: Ada West, Bumble Bee Bag, Fabric

• 2nd Place: Tatum Bourque, Warning, 2025, Marker on paper

• 3rd Place: Elliot Dunn, Baby Yoda, 2025, Ceramic

• Honorable Mention: Remington Stock, The Gray Elephant, 2025, Mixed media

6th – 8th Grade

• 1st Place: Emmalyn Williams, Mantra, 2025, Oil pastels on paper

• 2nd Place: Rylee Hopkins, Flower Child, 2025, Graphite on paper

• 3rd Place: Alli Howard, The Cardboard Alien, 2025, Acrylics, cardboard, and hot glue on matboard

• Honorable Mentions: Angelle Sims, Mad as the Hatter, 2025, Mixed media; Gisele Prejean, Lily of the Valley, 2025, Charcoal and graphite on paper

9th – 12th Grade

• 1st Place: Evan Phillips, It’s a Big World Outside, 2026, Mixed media

• 2nd Place: Miley Youngblood, Headspace, 2025, Mixed media

• 3rd Place: Natalie Fontenot, Best Friend, 2026, Graphite on paper

• Honorable Mention: Joshua Gray, A Gouda Girl, 2026, Graphite and colored pencil on paper

• Staff Choice: Eleanore Litton, Pinky Promise, 2026, Acrylic on canvas

• Viewer’s Choice: Ada West, Bumble Bee Bag, 2025, Fabric

The museum thanked students, teachers, parents, and judges for making the exhibition possible and invited the community to view the works before the exhibition closes at the end of February.

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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Ray Fountain, who passed away on February 10, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on November 12, 1940, Donald was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and an esteemed member of his community.

Donald was the proud owner of Cenla Timber, a Forestry business that showcased his dedication to the region and contributed to its growth. He served as a board member of the Louisiana Forestry Association, where his leadership and vision were instrumental in guiding the organization towards its goals. A lifelong enthusiast of the great outdoors, Donald found joy in hunting, fishing, traveling, and sitting on the balcony overlooking the gulf, often sharing these cherished pastimes with friends and family.

Above all, Donald cherished his family. He is survived by his wife, Darlene Kastanek-Fountain; children, Cathy Ussery (Blaine) and Keith Fountain (Kelley); step-children, Krista Kastanek-Ellis, Kerry Kastanek, Karen Allen, and Keli Kastanek; grandchildren, Brittany Paulk (Jeremy), Courtney Hakes (Matt), Jordan Blake Shelton (Hadley), Connor Lason Cook (Sydney), and Madeline Brantley Hill (Chris); great grandchildren, Brayden Paulk, Madyson Paulk, Reece Hakes; sisters, Nadine Kessler and Beverly Moore (Larry) and extended family members and friends. His legacy will continue to live on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Armie Fountain and Velva Jenkins, and his first wife and mother of his children, Dianne Fountain, of 56 years.

Funeral services will be held in his honor at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at Philadelphia Baptist Church in Deville, where he was a lifelong member, with Dr. Philip Robertson officiating, assisted by his son-in-law, Reverend Blaine Ussery. Burial will follow in Philadelphia Baptist Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the church on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and will resume on Saturday, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The family invites friends and family to gather to celebrate the life of Donald Fountain, sharing memories and stories that epitomize the love he had for all.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Jeremy Paulk, Brayden Paulk, Matt Hakes, Reece Hakes, Jordan Shelton, Blake Moore, Brandon Moore, Ken Kessler, Scott Kessler, and Shane Kessler. Honorary pallbearers will be Wayne Ryder and Edward “Easy” Curry.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Buck for his wonderful care; Compassionate Hospice and Leading Home HomeHealth, especially Susan, Tahnee, Laura, Carolyn, Rose, and other special ladies.

The family would like to extend appreciation to everyone for the many calls, prayers, and love. Your compassion did not go unnoticed.

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Services for Malcolm Ray Burlew will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 at Deville Church of God with Brother Matt Deville officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Burlew Cemetery, Deville under the direction of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home of Pineville.

Mr. Burlew, 92, of Deville, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 in Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria.

Drafted in 1953, he served our country in the Army, helping rebuild communications networks in Germany during the Korean war. After narrowly avoiding a deployment to Korea on the very day the armistice treaty between north and south was signed, he then returned home to Deville, marrying his wife, Carolyn, and they began their lives together. They had two children, Mikey and Mary Ann, and as they lived in their wholesome, small-town way, watched their family grow into what it is today.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Daisy Burlew; his many brothers and sisters, and one son, Mikey “Mike” Burlew.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 71 years, Carolyn Burlew; his daughter, Mary Ann Elliott, and her husband, Jerry; his daughter-in-law, Billie Burlew, as well as his brother, Tommy Burlew. In addition are his grandchildren, Garrett Burlew, Keisha Cross, and her husband, David, and Lanny Dean Burlew; his three great-granddaughters, Lexi Cross, Lybi Cross, and Heather Hudspeth, as well as two great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Garrett Burlew, Troy DeSoto, Dayton Deville, Thomas Burlew, Brian Burlew, and David Cross.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Bomber Whatley, William Burlew, and Lanny Dean Burlew.

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Rapides Parish residents can expect a warm and generally calm stretch through the workweek, with patchy morning fog and mild afternoons, before rain and thunderstorms move in over the weekend.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny, though patchy fog may linger during the morning hours. A slight chance of afternoon showers, around 20 percent, is expected as temperatures climb into the upper 70s. Winds will be light, shifting from west to north by the afternoon. Overnight lows will fall into the lower 50s under increasing cloud cover.

Thursday begins with another round of patchy morning fog, followed by partly sunny skies. Highs will reach the mid-70s, with light east winds turning southerly later in the day. Mostly cloudy conditions continue Thursday night, with lows in the upper 50s.

Friday and Friday night remain mostly cloudy but warm, with daytime highs in the upper 70s and overnight lows near 60. No significant rainfall is expected during this period.

Rain chances increase Saturday as cloudy skies persist throughout the day. Showers are possible in the morning, followed by showers and a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rain chances rise to around 80 percent, with highs in the mid-70s. More widespread showers and storms are expected Saturday night, with rain chances increasing to about 90 percent and lows in the mid-50s.

Conditions gradually improve Sunday, with a chance of morning showers giving way to mostly sunny skies by the afternoon. Highs will be near 70, and rain chances decrease to around 30 percent. Clear and cooler weather settles in Sunday night and continues through Monday, with lows in the upper 40s and highs in the lower 70s.

By Tuesday, mostly sunny skies return, and temperatures warm back into the mid-70s, ending the week on a pleasant note.

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(UPDATE 2/10/2026): DOTD advises motorists that the project to repair the bridge along I-49 northbound in Rapides Parish that was impacted by an 18-wheeler in December is scheduled to begin the week of February 16, 2026.

This project is anticipated to wrap up in mid-March 2026, weather and other factors permitting.

This bridge is located approximately one mile north of Exit 61 (Meeker/Turkey Creek). The lane closure that is currently in place will remain so while repair work is underway.

DOTD will issue another update when the repairs are complete and the lane has been reopened.

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Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser visited Central Louisiana on Tuesday, making stops in Alexandria and Pineville to meet with local leaders and highlight community initiatives.

During his visit, Nungesser spoke at Alexandria Country Day School, where he addressed the state’s Keep Louisiana Beautiful program and its role in promoting environmental stewardship and community pride.

Nungesser also toured the historic Kent Plantation House, one of the region’s oldest preserved structures, as part of his visit.

Officials from Explore Alexandria/Pineville joined local leaders and stakeholders for a luncheon at The Diamond Grill. During the gathering, Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy and Pineville Mayor Joe Bishop provided updates on ongoing projects and upcoming events in their respective cities.

The visit focused on collaboration among state and local leaders and discussions on future development and community initiatives in Central Louisiana.

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Everyone’s racing to hit the Assumptions button like it’s a reflex… while the big red FACTS buzzer just sits there, untouched.

Cue the game show music. Cue the dramatic pause.

Wrong answer, but thanks for playing.

In real life, jumping to conclusions doesn’t win prizes — it just spreads confusion. Accountability starts when we slow down, check the facts, and resist the urge to react first and think later.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development is continuing work on a $4.8 million road improvement project along LA 1200 south of the Town of Boyce in Rapides Parish.

The project covers approximately 4.2 miles of roadway and includes installation of new roadway base material and milling of existing asphalt in preparation for fresh paving. DOTD officials said the work is progressing as planned, with contractors actively removing old asphalt layers and stabilizing the roadbed.

According to DOTD, the improvements are intended to enhance roadway durability and driving conditions along the corridor.

The project is currently estimated for completion in late spring 2026, weather permitting.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury has announced the dates and times for its upcoming committee meetings and regular monthly meeting in March.

The Police Jury’s standing committees will meet Monday, March 2, 2026, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office, located on the second floor of the Parish Courthouse at 701 Murray Street in Alexandria. Committees will meet in the following order: Finance; Public Works, Watershed and Agricultural Affairs; Workforce Development and Grants; Tourism and Economic Planning and Development; Courthouse, Coliseum and Facilities; Parochial Board Liaison and Municipal Liaison; Personnel, Elections, Insurance and Legal; and Ambulance, Fire, Health and Homeland Security.

The agenda for the committee meetings will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, on the Meeting Room door.

The regular meeting of the Rapides Parish Police Jury is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026, at 3 p.m., also in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office at the parish courthouse. The agenda for the regular meeting will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Both the committee meetings and the regular Police Jury meeting will be streamed live at rppj.com and on the Rapides Parish Police Jury YouTube channel at youtube.com/@rppj-la.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend.

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An Alexandria man was arrested Feb. 5 following a joint investigation by the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit and the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole after suspected fentanyl was discovered during a supervision check.

According to the RADE Unit, agents were contacted by Louisiana State Probation and Parole after officers located a substance believed to be fentanyl on a subject under their supervision, identified as Domingus Benson, 45, of Alexandria. RADE agents responded to the 4000 block of Third Street, where probation officers turned over the suspected narcotics.

Field testing confirmed the substance was fentanyl. Investigators then applied for and obtained a search warrant for a residence located at 4005 Third Street.

During a search of the residence, agents recovered approximately five ounces of powder cocaine and just over 3.5 grams of fentanyl. Authorities also located five firearms, assorted drug paraphernalia, and $594 in cash believed to be proceeds from illegal narcotics sales.

Benson was arrested and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center, where he was booked on charges of possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (cocaine) with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance (fentanyl) with intent to distribute, five counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, five counts of illegal carrying of a firearm with narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a parole violation.

Benson was also issued a civil asset forfeiture notice for the seized currency.

Authorities reported that Benson remains incarcerated and is being held on a parole violation as well as a $300,500 bond.

A RADE deputy assigned as a task force officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was contacted regarding one of the seized firearms that may violate legal barrel length requirements.

The investigation remains ongoing in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole.

The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Unit is a multi-jurisdictional task force 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, the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole, and the FBI Safe Streets Task Force.

Officials stated the RADE Unit continues to target individuals suspected of trafficking narcotics in central Louisiana. Anyone with information regarding narcotics activity is encouraged to contact the RADE Unit through its official Facebook page.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative action.

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February 11 marks the birthday of one of the most influential voices in modern music history: Whitney Houston. Born on this date in 1963, Houston’s impact on pop culture extends far beyond record sales, reshaping the sound of popular music and redefining what vocal excellence looked like for generations that followed.

Rising to fame in the mid-1980s, Houston quickly became a cultural force. Her 1985 self-titled debut album produced multiple chart-topping singles and introduced audiences to a voice that blended pop accessibility with gospel power. At a time when female pop artists were often boxed into narrow roles, Houston crossed genres effortlessly, finding success on pop, R&B, adult contemporary, and international charts simultaneously.

Her influence wasn’t limited to music. Houston’s presence on television and in film helped expand representation in mainstream entertainment. Her starring role in The Bodyguard (1992) cemented her status as a crossover superstar, while the film’s soundtrack became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Songs like “I Will Always Love You” became cultural touchstones, played at weddings, graduations, sporting events, and moments of public mourning.

February 11 also invites reflection on Houston’s broader cultural legacy. She broke barriers for Black women in pop music during an era when radio formats were more rigidly segregated. Her success opened doors for countless artists who followed, including Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, and Adele, all of whom have cited Houston as a major influence.

Even decades after her peak, Houston’s voice remains a benchmark. Viral clips of her live performances continue to circulate online, often sparking renewed appreciation from younger audiences discovering her for the first time. Vocal coaches, music critics, and fans alike frequently reference her control, tone, and emotional delivery as unmatched.

While Houston’s life also included public struggles, her artistic legacy continues to overshadow controversy. Each year on February 11, fans around the world revisit her catalog, celebrate her achievements, and reflect on how deeply her music is woven into shared cultural memory.

In an industry that constantly evolves, Whitney Houston’s voice remains timeless — and February 11 serves as a reminder of the day one of pop culture’s greatest legends was born.

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Services for Lionell Piper will be at 11:00a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Daughter of Zion Baptist Church. Pastor Willie Sewell will be officiating. Interment will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Mr. Piper, 80, of Alexandria, LA, passed away on February 7, 2026, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital. Lionell retired from the State of Louisiana. He was a member of Daughter of Zion Baptist Church, founder of Cenla Little League, member of Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Louisiana, F.A.A,Y.M., and a school bus driver for RPSB.

Lionell is preceded in death by his father: Edward Piper, Sr., mother: Irene Carpenter Piper, wife: Darnell J. Piper, daughter: Lynee Danielle Piper, sisters: Frankie Piper and Alice Carter, brothers: Edward Piper, Jr., Jimmy Piper, Sr., and Michael D. Piper.

Lionell leaves to cherish his memories – daughter: Gineane Watts, sons: Larry Lionell Piper (Melodie Piper)) and Lamont Charles Piper (Latoya Williams-Piper), brothers: David Piper, Robert Piper, Sr., Frank Piper, Gary Piper, Sr., and Wallace Piper, sisters: Betty Clark, Cary Seymour, and Nina Washington, along with 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

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Celebration of Life services honoring Mr. Larry Daniel Lewis, Sr. will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Mount Hermon Baptist Church in Lena, with Reverends Frank D. Randle, Jr. and Avery Hamilton officiating. Visitation will take place from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Leesville.

Larry, 66, a proud native of Yonkers, NY, who later made Pineville, his home, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Rapides Regional Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Donna Lewis Miles (Tony Miles), his paternal grandparents Horsley McKinley Lewis, Sr. and Flossie Ferguson Lewis, and his maternal grandparents Robert Morton McCoy and Flossie Ferguson McCoy.

Larry’s memory will be lovingly cherished by his devoted wife of 41 years, Carnella J. Lewis; their children Larry Lewis, Jr. and Cheryl Lewis; his grandchildren, Laryssa Lewis, Ayanna Lewis, Marcel Lewis, and Maya Bell; his parents Horsley McKinley Lewis, Jr. and Louise S. Lewis; his brothers Jerry Lewis (Jatun Lewis) and Jeffrey Lewis; his sisters Debra Lewis, Dr. Sharon Lewis, and Cheryl Chevis (Darnell Chevis); a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and dear friends who, through love and time, became his family.

Livestream of the service will be available online at mounthermonmbc.com.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises the public that beginning Monday, February 16th, at 6:00 AM, weather permitting, the outside lanes of US 165 northbound and southbound, as well as three of the entrance/exit ramps at the US 167 Kingsville Interchange will be closed as part of an ongoing $6.2 million project to repair the roadway at this location.

It should be noted that the US 167 (Pineville Expressway) northbound exit to US 165 orthbound, and the inside lanes of US 165 northbound and southbound will remain open at all times during this phase. Please refer to the included detour maps.

These closures are necessary to allow for laying the asphalt concrete wearing course on the roadway and ramps. Work associated with this phase is expected to require approximately ten (10) working days, subject to weather conditions. Upon completion of this phase of construction, all US 167 ramps and the outside lanes of US 165 will be reopened.

The contract was awarded to Diamond B Construction Co., LLC.

The entire project is anticipated to wrap up in March 2026, weather permitting.

Permit/Detour section

A 12-foot width restriction will be in place on US 165 northbound and southbound between US 165 Business (Military Hwy) and US 71.

US 165 Northbound to US 167 Northbound & Southbound
Traffic traveling north on US 165 will detour onto north US 71 toward the VA Hospital. Continue on US 71 to the US 167 interchange. From there, traffic may exit right to access US 167 southbound or exit left to access US 167 northbound.

US 165 Southbound to US 167 Northbound & Southbound
Traffic traveling south on US 165 will detour right onto LA 623. Continue on LA 623 to LA 3225(Shreveport Hwy), then turn left onto LA 3225 southbound. Continue to the US 167 interchange. From there, traffic may exit right to access US 167 northbound or exit left to access US 167 southbound.

US 167 Northbound to US 165 Southbound
Continue north on US 167 to the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Exit and turn left onto US 71 southbound. Continue straight on US 71 toward the VA Hospital, merging onto the US 165/US 71 corridor to access US 165 southbound.

US 167 Northbound to US 165 Northbound
Traffic may use this exit to access US 165 northbound (only). No Left turn onto US 165 southbound will be allowed.

US 167 Southbound to US 165 Southbound
Exit US 167 southbound at the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Turn right onto US 71 southbound and continue straight toward the VA Hospital, merging onto the US 165/US 71 corridor to access US 165 southbound.

US 167 Southbound to US 165 Northbound
Exit US 167 southbound at the US 71 (Tioga) exit. Turn left onto LA 3225 northbound (Shreveport Hwy), then turn right onto LA 623 toward US 165. Turn left to access US 165 northbound.

Safety Reminder
All construction activity is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. DOTD appreciates the motoring public’s patience and reminds drivers to please exercise caution when traveling through work zone areas and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at http://www.511la.org. Additionally, you can follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ http://www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page.

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In 1957, after years of bit parts in numerous films and television shows, Thomas was cast as Lana Turner’s love interest in the film “Another Time, Another Place.”  In the second week of October 1957, Lana’s boyfriend Johnny Stompanato, a former marine who was a bodyguard and enforcer for mob boss Mickey Cohen, flew from Los Angeles to Cornwall, England, to be with her for the remainder of filming.  For three months, Johnny watched from the sideline as the chemistry between Thomas and Lana grew.  Thomas and Lana played their parts so well for the camera that Johnny became increasingly suspicious and jealous.  Around New Year’s Day 1958, while Lana and Thomas were filming an intimate scene, Johnny’s jealousy could take no more.  He rushed on screen, pointed a pistol at Thomas’s head, and threatened him to stay away from Lana.  In a split-second move, Thomas forcefully disarmed Johnny.  Thomas was aware of Johnny’s underworld connections and knew to expect a reprisal of some sort.   

Lana was not a pushover by any means.  When her marriage to Lex Barker broke down six months earlier, she forced him at gunpoint to leave her home.  Lana had Johnny removed from the film set and contacted police who quickly deported Johnny from England.  He was back in Hollywood by January 4, 1958.  Despite this incident, Lana and Johnny remained on speaking terms.  According to letters between Lana and Johnny, Lana wanted space.  In a letter dated January 15, 1958, Lana wrote to Johnny, “You must let me alone in my own world for a while, to rest, think, rest, think… I need the time and a different place to funnel thru all the emotional turmoil I’ve been through.”  Johnny had no intention of giving her the space she requested.  He wanted to marry.  Johnny wrote to Lana, “Let me prove that you and I belong together.”  In another letter he wrote, “Every second of every day since you have been gone, I’ve thought of nothing but you and your kisses.”  Johnny persuaded Lana’s 14-year-old daughter Cheryl to help convince Lana to marry him.  On a letter dated April 3, 1958, Cheryl wrote to Johnny, “I just got your letter this morning because I was home for the weekend.  How have you been?  …When are you all coming back?  Soon, I Hope.  Mother and I really had a wonderful time in Europe.”  She ended the letter, “Love ya and miss ya loads, Cherie.”  She only had a short time to wait. 

On the following day, April 4, Cheryl and Lana were at their home in Beverly Hills when Johnny stopped by for another attempt at convincing Lana to rekindle their romance and marry him.  Johnny’s sweetness quickly turned to rage when he realized she could not be convinced.  Johnny grabbed Lana and shook here while he cursed and threatened her.  Cheryl heard Johnny yell, “I’ll get you if it takes a day, a week, or a year.  I’ll cut your face up.  I’ll stomp you.  And if I can’t do it myself, I’ll find somebody who will.”  As Johnny continued his tirade over Lana, Cheryl grabbed a 10-inch butcher knife and sank it to the hilt into Johnny’s abdomen.  He died moments later.  Cheryl was not prosecuted because a coroner’s jury deemed the killing a justifiable homicide.  Mob boss Mickey Cohen linked Johnny’s death back to the altercation in which Thomas disarmed Johnny in a move similar to what we would expect to see in a James Bond film.  Well, Thomas eventually became James Bond.  His full name was Thomas Sean Connery.              

 Sources:

1.       San Francisco Chronicle, October 1, 1957, p.25.

2.      Berwick, PA., Enterprise, October 15, 1957, p.4.

3.      The New London, Connecticut Evening Day, January 4, 1948, p.16.

4.      The Akron Beacon Journal, April 5, 1958, p.1.

5.      The Oregonian, April 11, 1958, p.10.

6.      Los Angeles Times, April 12, 1958, p.1.          

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Funeral services for Mrs. Virginia “Toni” Janell Jeannise Copeland will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville. Interment will follow in St. Clair Cemetery, Boyce, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mrs. Copeland, 87, of Gardner, entered eternal rest on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Matthews Memorial Health Care, Alexandria, surrounded by her loving family.

She was a loving mother and grandmother who loved to dance in her younger years. She was also an excellent cook and enjoyed sharing her skills with her family. Her greatest joy came from the love she shared with her friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by two husbands, Fritz Copeland and John Nance; one son, John Floyd; and her parents, Joe and Bessie Jannise.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include three sons, Jeff Floyd (Pam) of Midland, Texas, Joe Floyd (Becky) of Gardner, and Nathan Copeland (Lisa) of Gardner; one daughter, Melissa Herrmann (Jeremy) of Minocqua, Wisconsin; fifteen grandchildren; and twenty-four great grandchildren.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

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Ada Kathleen Bush Paulk, lovingly known as Kathleen or “Kat,” passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 78, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply.

Kathleen was born on August 17, 1947, in Kerrville, Texas, to Ellus and Mary Bush. From an early age, she had a curious mind and a love for learning that never faded. After graduating from Sam Houston High School, she earned a degree in English from Louisiana College-just the beginning of a lifetime spent teaching, learning, and encouraging others to do the same.

Kathleen devoted most of her career to the Rapides Parish School System, where she touched the lives of countless students. She went on to earn her Master’s Plus 30, often saying that you “never stopped learning.” Her dedication to education continued through her work as a Warrant Officer with the Youth Challenge Program and later as an Assessment Teacher for Avoyelles Parish. Even after retiring, Kathleen wasn’t one to slow down-she continued preparing tax returns for many years, simply because helping people was part of who she was.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 59 years, Kirby Paulk; her youngest daughter, Kamii Dauzat; and her brother, Jerome Bush.

She leaves behind a family who adored her: her sons, Kurtis Paulk of Pineville and Kerry Paulk (Donna) of Deville; and her daughter, Kristina Hickman (Dennis) of Hickory Grove. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren-Chelsea Bass (Robert), CJ Dauzat (Ashley), Sam Dyer (Joe), Denni Bickford (Zach), Kaleb Paulk, Gabrielle Paulk, Sidney Paulk, Tiffany Paulk, Sarah Wiggins (Bammer), and Melinda Wilson (Gregory)-and a joyful great-grandmother to twenty-seven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Irene Sullivan (James) and Darlene Tucker (Rick), along with many extended family members, and friends who felt like family.

Kathleen had a way of making people feel cared for. She loved baking and could often be found in the kitchen making something special “just because.” Arts and crafts brought her endless joy, as did decorating her home with beautifully themed rooms-each one filled with her personality. Her Wizard of Oz collection was one of her greatest delights.

Some of her happiest moments were spent watching birds, tending her garden, and taking her grandchildren on adventures. She loved their field trips and often joked about how “bad they were,” fully aware that she may have encouraged a little mischief herself. One favorite family tradition was “experiment night,” when she tried a new recipe each week-some became staples, and others became treasured stories told with laughter.

Kathleen was incredibly proud of the books she authored: The Story Goes, documenting her family’s genealogy, and A Time to Remember: A Hundred Years of Service (Holloway Baptist Church). These works, which can also be found on YouTube, reflect her deep love for family, faith, and history.

Above all else, Kathleen cared about people. She paid attention to those who needed help and quietly found ways to give it. She had a special love for sending and receiving cards through the mail, believing that a handwritten note could brighten anyone’s day. Her kindness, humor, and generous spirit will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

She attended Holloway Baptist Church in Hickory Grove, LA, and the family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be sent in her memory to Holloway Baptist Church WMU, 7368 Hickory Grove Road, Deville, LA 71328.

Visitation will be held on February 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m., at Holloway Baptist Church, Hickory Grove.

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Rapides Parish was among several central Louisiana parishes impacted by a wide-ranging federal drug trafficking investigation that has led to the indictment of 11 individuals accused of conspiring to distribute large quantities of illegal narcotics.

The investigation, which began in late fall 2024, was initiated by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and expanded to include multiple parish sheriff’s offices, district attorneys, and federal agencies. Rapides Parish authorities were involved as the investigation identified distribution routes and criminal activity affecting communities beyond parish boundaries.

Federal prosecutors said the drug trafficking organization moved methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl into central Louisiana, contributing to drug-related crime and overdoses across multiple parishes. Search warrants executed during the investigation resulted in the seizure of narcotics, cash, and other assets tied to the operation.

On Jan. 21, 2026, a federal grand jury in Lafayette returned a 12-count indictment charging 11 individuals with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. The indictment further alleges the possession of more than 2,000 fentanyl pills intended for distribution and the use of cell phone communication facilities to facilitate the operation.

All defendants have been arrested and are currently being held in federal custody.

The individuals indicted are:

Detrail Harris
Kameron Harris
Barry Pearson
Frank Coleman Jr.
Earl Thompson, also known as Nook
Michael Womack
Sevesta Sweet
Charles Jackson
Andrew Bulloch
Craig Hopkins
Buford Sawyer, also known as Dog Pound

Federal officials stressed that the charges are accusations only and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The case is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana under docket number 26-CR-27. Authorities indicated the investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues to target drug trafficking organizations impacting Rapides Parish and the surrounding region.

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