The Pineville Police Department is warning residents about fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the Louisiana DMV regarding “outstanding traffic tickets” and threatening license suspension, registration termination, fines, or credit impacts.

Officials said the messages are a scam, often containing suspicious links and urging immediate payment. Residents are advised not to click the links or provide any personal or financial information.

The department reminded the public that government agencies do not threaten immediate penalties via text and that official traffic citation notices are handled through the court system. The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles will not demand payment through unsolicited text links.

Residents who receive such messages are advised to delete them, avoid responding, and report them as spam to their phone provider. Officials also encourage verifying any concerns directly with the appropriate agency using a verified phone number or website.

In 1965, Washoe was born in West Africa.  Ten months later, she and four other youngsters, Dar, Pili, Tatu, and Moja, were brought to the United States to be raised by foster parents Allen and Beatrix Gardner.  Allen and Beatrix played with them, talked to them, fed them, chased them, ran from them, gave them a comfortable and intellectually stimulating home, and all the other things most parents do to bond with and raise their children.  Washoe and the others acted very much like children of their age with one exception, they could not speak.  Fostering Washoe and the others was difficult because they were unable to communicate vocally, but Allen and Beatrix both worked as scientists at the University of Nevado in Reno and understood that getting the desired result usually took a long time to achieve.  One of the most important tools in their arsenal as scientists was patience.  Most doctors concluded that they would never be able to communicate because they all lacked a specific gene, the FOXP2 gene, which is essential for the normal development of speech.  They would never be able to speak.  They accepted the prognosis that the youngsters would never be able to communicate verbally, but Allen and Beatrix were determined that they would be able to communicate.

Rather than trying to get Washoe and the others to speak verbally, the Gardners stopped using verbal communication around them altogether.  When in their presence, Allen and Beatrix communicated with each other using American Sign Language (ASL).  The Gardners feared that trying to communicate with them verbally and with sign language simultaneously would be confusing.  The Gardners hoped the youngsters would learn by watching them communicate with each other.  Washoe was especially interested.  They used the proper sign language to each other when Washoe was eating, bathing, and while she was being dressed.  They invented exciting games; introduced new toys, books, and magazines; all of which were designed to stimulate sign language.  They made scrapbooks of Washoe’s favorite pictures and used the proper sign language for whatever was shown in the photos.  Dinner time began with Allen and Beatrix shaping their dominant hands into a flattened “O” with the fingertips touching the thumb then tapping the fingertips to their lips once or twice.  In American Sign Language, this is the sign for “food” or “to eat.”  Then one day at dinner time, long after doctors and other experts had given up hope that she would ever be able to communicate, Washoe told Allen and Beatrix that she was hungry by signing the word “food.”  The Gardners were overjoyed.  Within a short time, Washoe could tell the Gardners that she was thirsty and that she wanted to play with her toys by using sign language.  She quickly learned the sign for “more” to let the Gardners know she was still hungry, still thirsty, or that she wanted more toys.  Her vocabulary continued to grow.  Then she began to learn to answer questions such as “Who is that?” and “What do you want?” 

As her vocabulary grew, the Gardners noticed something extraordinary.  Washoe began teaching the other youngsters the sign language she knew, and they were signing back correctly.  With the help of the Gardners, Washoe and the others learned a sign language vocabulary of hundreds of words and expressions.  Washoe became the first of her kind to learn a human language and teach it to another primate.  Washoe and the others were all chimpanzees.

Sources:

1.      “Friends of Washoe,” accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.friendsofwashoe.org/learn/chci_history/project_washoe_begins.html.

2.     “Meet Tatu and Loulis—the last of the ‘talking’ chimpanzees,” National Geographic, accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/chimpanzee-sign-language-experiments.

3.     “FOXP2 gene,” MedlinePlus.com, accessed February 22, 2026, https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/foxp2/.

Mrs. Doris Iola McGraw Nation, 97, of Deville, was received into Heaven on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Born on February 15, 1929, during the first year of the Great Depression, Doris was the eldest child of Alvis and Eloise McGraw. She was one of five children and learned early in life the value of faith, family, and hard work.

She was raised in Hopewell Baptist Church, where her family were founding members in 1906. In later years, continuing their legacy of love and service, the family donated land for a cemetery—an expression of their enduring commitment to their church and community. That church planting spirit remains part of this family today.

Doris married Leon Nation and became a member of Big Island Baptist Church. From this union were born two sons, Bobby Wayne and Ronald Leon. She faithfully raised her boys in the church, instilling in them the same steadfast faith and values that guided her life.

Doris’s early years were shaped by hardship. Having lived through the entirety of the Great Depression, she understood perseverance and responsibility from a young age. She worked diligently as a child and carried that strong work ethic throughout her life. Though her greatest devotion was always to her family, she worked briefly in Alexandria at Blackmon’s Laundry, and Cleaners, before spending more than 40 years as a beloved Avon representative and talented seamstress.

Her home was always welcoming. There was invariably something good to eat, and laughter was never far away. Doris was known for her quick wit and lively spirit. If you thought you could outsmart her with a clever remark, you quickly learned otherwise, she was always ready with a sharp and humorous reply. Her warmth, strength, and spirited personality left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvis and Elouise McGraw; her husband, Leon Nation; and her son, Bobby Wayne Nation.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Ron Nation (Kathy); her daughter-in-law, Barbara Nation; grandchildren Crystal Nugent (Scott), April Murrell (Micah), Brent Nation (Amy), and Tammy Nation; 8 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A graveside service for Mrs. Nation will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Big Island Baptist Church Cemetery with Brother David Gatch officiating.

Memorials may be made to NOW Church, Missions Fund, 21237 Hwy 167 N., Dry Prong, LA 71423.

By JIM BUTLER

A Police Jury committee is expected to recommend a temporary interim parish public works director at its meeting today.

The Personnel, Elections & Legal panel will likely endorse Ryan Elkins, with a 10 percent salary increase, and to ask the full jury to advertise for a “permanent” public director.

Jurors fired Director Cory Ashmore on February 19 following a two-hour executive session held under provisions of the state’s investigatory proceedings provisions.

Returning to open session, the jury voted unanimously to dismiss Ashmore “to resolve issues identified in executive session”.

Officials have been tight-lipped in the days since about what those issues might have been.

State law allows such closeting to hear allegations regarding misconduct, character, professional competence or physical or mental health.

Minutes reflect that persons attending the noticed meeting included the Jury’s chief accountant and its purchasing agent, a pastor, an attorney and several private citizens.

Which, if any, participated in the executive session, is not noted in the minutes.

The Rapides Parish School Board recognized Emma Cox of Pineville Elementary as its latest Classroom Hero during this week’s spotlight.

Cox, who has three years of teaching experience, was honored for her commitment to empowering students both academically and personally.

In reflecting on her approach to teaching, Cox said she works to help students recognize their individual strengths and understand how their actions can positively impact their classroom and community. Through collaboration, leadership opportunities and encouragement to take initiative, she aims to show students they have control over their learning, success and life.

Cox also highlighted fellow educator Rylee Duncan for her positive impact on students, noting that Duncan consistently meets students where they are and guides them with care and determination.

The Classroom Hero Highlight is a weekly feature recognizing educators across Rapides Parish for their dedication and service to students.

A daycare worker has been arrested after an investigation into allegations of cruelty to juveniles at a local daycare.

On Feb. 9 Patrol Deputies responded to a report from a parent alleging that their child was the victim of a battery by an employee of the daycare they used in Alexandria.

Detectives assigned to the Special Victims Unit began their investigation and as part of the investigation, the owner of the daycare was contacted and cooperated fully, providing video evidence that was reviewed.  The suspect was identified as Shanice Nicole Mack, 33 of Pineville. 

During the course of the investigation, SVU Detectives were  able to identify key evidence which led to the discovery of two additional juvenile victims involving the same alleged perpetrator.  SVU Detectives also conducted forensic interviews of the victim (s) and multiple interviews of past and current staff members.  Based on the findings from their extensive investigation, SVU Detectives were able to establish sufficient probable cause that supported the original allegations and warrants for Mack’s arrest were obtained.

On Feb. 25 Mack was notified of the warrants and, accompanied by her attorney, voluntarily surrendered herself to SVU Detectives. Mack was placed under arrest and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center for two counts Cruelty to Juveniles and one count Simple Battery.  Bond was  set at $20,500 and Mack was released later that day. 

SVU Detectives say this is still an active, ongoing investigation.  Anyone with any additional information about this incident are asked to contact the RPSO Special Victims Unit at 318-448-0884, Criminal Investigation Division at 318-473-6727 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

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

Arrestee: Shanice Nicole Mack, 33 of 3179 Crestview Drive in Pineville

Charges: two counts Cruelty to Juveniles, Simple Battery

The top two men’s basketball teams in the Red River Athletic Conference met Sunday at the Rapides Parish Coliseum in the RRAC Tournament championship game and regular-season champion LSU Shreveport left no doubt with an 87-70 victory over LSU Alexandria as LSU system president Dr. Wade Rousse watched proudly.

Both teams are headed to postseason. LSU (27-2) already was in based on winning the regular season title. LSUA will get a berth, too. The Pilots swept all three meetings with the Generals this season.

The Generals await the NAIA Selection Show Thursday to determine their draw in the NAIA Tournament beginning March 13.

E.J. McQuillan poured in 22 points for the Generals, while T.J James recorded a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds.

Emareyon McDonald, Khi Wallace, and James Johnson led the Pilots with 22 points each.

The Generals’ offense struggled to find a rhythm in the first half. They knocked down just nine shots and closed the first 20 minutes with a 31.0 field goal percentage. LSUA kept the game within three, even leading for 4:21 of the first half, through the opening 19 minutes. A late run from LSUS sent the Pilots into the locker room leading 39-30.

The second half wasn’t much kinder to the Generals. They shot just 32.4 percent from the floor and struggled from the free throw line, going 12-for-22.

LSUS knocked down 52.5 percent of its second half shots.

The Generals earned their championship game berth Saturday with a 77-73 semifinal win over third-seeded Xavier.

McQuillan led the Generals with 26 points, 10 of which came from the free throw line. Jordan Decuir recorded 20 points. They were first-team All-RRAC selections announced Friday.  P.D. McCraney and T.J. James were honorable mention picks.

In early February 2026, agents with the  Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit received multiple anonymous complaints about an unknown subject using and possibly selling illegal narcotics from a local motel room in Alexandria. The anonymous complainants provided the motel room number which was leased to a subject identified as Jamaar Antonio Payne. 

Through multiple investigative techniques, RADE Agents were able to identify the suspect and corroborate the anonymous information.  Through their investigation, Agents were able to obtain a narcotic search warrant for the motel room and due to the probability of Payne being armed, the RPSO SWAT Team was contacted to serve the search warrant.

On Feb. 18, 2026, RPSO SWAT executed the narcotic search warrant and found Payne in the room where he was taken into custody without incident.  RADE Agents conducted a search of the room and  located  2 grams of Fentanyl, over 127 grams of Methamphetamine, approximately 11 grams of crack cocaine, 30 grams of Marijuana, 1 gram of powder cocaine, all packaged separately in baggies for sale.  A handgun was also located in close proximity to where Payne was taken into custody.  Payne is a convicted felon and currently prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

Agents also located $624 dollars in assorted U.S. Currency which was believed to be revenue from the sales of illegal narcotics.

Payne was placed under arrest and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center where he was booked on multiple charges.  Payne remains in jail at the time of this release being held on a $216,500 bond.  Payne was also issued a Civil Asset Forfeiture form for the seized cash. 

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.

Arrestee: Jamaar Antonio Payne, 43 of 128 St. Matt Street in Montegut

Charges: Possession of CDS II (Crack Cocaine) with Intent to Distribute

Possession of CDS II (Fentanyl) with Intent to Distribute

Possession of CDS II (Methamphetamines) with Intent to Distribute

Possession of CDS II (Powder Cocaine) with Intent to Distribute

Possession of CDS I (Marijuana) with Intent to Distribute

Illegal Carry of a Firearm with Drugs

Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

March 1

Kari Elaine Beard, 42, Pineville – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Vivian Cee Bynog, 29, Pineville – OWI first offense, headlamps required, open container, $1,200 bail;

Sean Craig, 28, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Mason Lee Danielson, 23, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Terry Dontay Dearborne, 36, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, $3,500 bail;

Ha Huynh, 51, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Tracy Joseph Johnson, 36, Boyce – two counts contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

James Ray, 42, Leland, Miss. – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, speeding, possession of drug paraphernalia, $600 bail;

Mindey Sue Wooten, 47, Calcasieu – OWI second offense, careless operation of a vehicle, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, $1,700 bail.

Feb. 28

Rickey Allen, 59, Jonesboro – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Alvin Dorsey Jr., 37, Alexandria – possession of CDS, no driver’s license, tail lamps red light, $1,700 bail;

Demarcus Vanshawn Griffith, 34, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, $5,000 bail;

James Alfred Harvey III, 51, Alexandria – possession of CDS, violation of protective orders, no driver’s license, expired MVI sticker, turn signal lamp, $1,800 bail;

Todd Leighton Lucas, 39, Pineville – OWI third offense, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, open container, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, $51,100 bail;

Alexander R. May, 26, Deville – possession of CDS, domestic abuse battery, $1,500 bail;

Rondale Dewayne Mock, 32, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, $10,500 bail;

Jarohn Perkins, 51, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, careless operation, driving under suspension, open container, $100,300 bail;

Joanne Lanae Simmons, 28, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, two counts contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Ricky Deron Smith, 53, Alexandria – OWI second offense, open container, improper headlight, $1,700 bail;

Charles G. Sword, 51, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, failure to change driver license address, restrict tire equipment, open container, possession of marijuana, $800 bail;

Kordell Williams, 27, Scott – second degree battery, disturbing the peace, $5,500 bail;

Tyrance Byone Wright, 42, Alexandria – aggravated assault, three counts contempt of court, probation violation, $5,000 bail.

Feb. 27

Tonya Buxton, 33, Breaux Bridge – contempt of court, Louisiana fugitive, $100,000 bail;

Francis Merlin Bourgeois, 57, Alexandria – failure to renew sex offender registration, parole violations, $10,000 bail;

Chayla Brown, 26, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing hallucinogenic plants, possession of marijuana, obstruction of justice, improper window tint, driver’s license required, $1,700 bail;

Tonya Buxton, 33, Breaux Bridge – Louisiana fugitive, contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Joshua Randall Sanders, 43, Pollock – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Kenneth Joubert Jr., 45 – illegal carry firearm with drugs, legend drug possession, possession of marijuana, possession of CDS, two counts contempt of court, $9,500 bail;

Azleigh Ke’Aijah Robinson, 25, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing hallucinogenic plants, obstruction of justice, possession of marijuana, $1,500 bail;

Joshua Randall Sanders, 43, Pollock – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail.

Feb. 26

William Dewaine Ahart Sr., 49, Otis – possession of firearm by convicted felon, contempt of court, $51,500 bail;

Zamya Monat Brown, 25, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal carry firearm with drugs, illegal possession of stolen firearms, criminal conspiracy, $250,000 bail;

Trampus Heath Daniels, 49, Calcasieu – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Tereon Ladell Hood, 26, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal possession of stolen firearms, possession of firearm by convicted felon, criminal conspiracy, illegal carry firearm with drugs, $300,000 bail;

Ellia Mandrell Jackson, 47, Pleasant Hill – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, brake lamp required, Louisiana fugitive, $2,100 bail;

Quanterious T. Johnson, 18, Alexandria – manufacture transfer of unlawful machine guns, two counts possession of stolen firearm, $200,000 bail;

Mary Helen Jordan, 40, Pineville – theft, criminal conspiracy, failure to appear, four counts contempt of court, $62,000 bail;

Joseph Thomas Laird, 36, Murfreesboro, Tenn. – 15 counts of intentionally possessing child sexual abuse materials, two counts contempt of court, $753,000 bail;

Johnny Lee Nelson, 23, Lecompte – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Charles Chase Nobles, 46, Goldonna – flight from an officer, accessory after the fact, criminal conspiracy, fire raising on land of another, gross littering, $4,000 bail;

Daren Prince, 38, Pollock – contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Christopher Michael Smith, 32, Ball – cruelty to juveniles, juvenile molestation, sexual battery, failure to appear, flight from an officer, violation of protection orders, $376,000 bail;

Stanley Dewayne White, 61, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, speeding, improper turn, $1,300 bail;

Mark Shawn Wilkerson, 48, Pineville – four counts contempt of court, $59,500 bail;

Kendale Corday Wilkins, 19, Alexandria – second degree murder, $500,000 bail;

Kenderek Wilkins, 21, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, accessory after the fact, $151,500 bail.

Feb. 25

Alvin Ray Brown Jr., 35, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, possession of CDS, $2,500 bail;

Brandon Nikeel Brown, 24, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, $200,000 bail;

Zaveon Brown, 23, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, improper window tint, $101,000 bail;

Flecther Phillip Cheatham Jr., 60, Leesville – OWI third offense, $75,000 bail;

Joel Crooks, 17, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, aggravated assault, two counts false imprisonment with dangerous weapon, $75,000 bail;

Justin Steven Garrett, 40, Alexandria – simple arson, $10,000 bail;

David Brown Lejeune, 32, Pineville – attempted second degree murder, contempt of court, $510,000 bail;

William Javyan Lyons, 28, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, aggravated criminal damage, criminal trespass, stalking, unlawful telephone communication, $31,000 bail;

Marcus Djuan Price, 42, Alexandria – 13 counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Guy Temple Tanner, 68, Cheneyville – indecent behavior with juveniles, sexual battery of a juvenile, $500,000 bail;

Ashley Jane Weston, 29, Alexandria – three counts criminal conspiracy, three counts theft, $4,500 bail;

Johnny Lewis Wilson, 61, Alexandria – simple burglary, contempt of court, resisting an officer, $8,000 bail.

Funeral services for Mr. Donald Keith Barr will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Sovereign Grace Baptist Church, Simmesport, with Reverend Gilbert Barr officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Masonic Cemetery, Simmesport, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Barr, 75, of Simmesport, entered eternal rest on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Donald dedicated over forty-eight years of faithful service as a correctional officer at Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola), where he ultimately retired as Assistant Warden. Throughout his long and respected career, he was known for his leadership, commitment, and steady presence.

Outside of his work, he found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. Donald was a devoted fan of LSU Tigers football and enjoyed watching baseball and all sports. An avid hunter and true outdoorsman, he felt most at home in nature. He also had a love for music and could often be found playing his guitar and singing for family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Barr Sr., and Dorothy Barr; two brothers, James Barr and Louis Barr; and one grandson, Thaddeus Barr.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife, Sally Barr of Simmesport; five sons, Jamie Barr (René), Derek Barr (Charlene), Lance Barr, Micah Barr (Codie), and Aaron Barr (Crystal); three daughters, Jennifer Thibodeaux (Joseph), Kristin Modena (Connor), and Lesleigh Vines (Maxie); four brothers, Gilbert Barr, Joseph Barr, Jr., John Barr, and Allen Barr; one sister, Becky White; seventeen grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

Funeral services for Mr. Daniel Joseph Maricle will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at One Life Church, Alexandria, with Reverend Josh McElwee officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Butter Cemetery, Forest Hill, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Mr. Maricle, 47, of Reeves, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

He was a loving fiancé, father, son, and brother. A welder by trade, he worked at Union Tank Company and loved duck hunting. He was a devoted family man. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Danny Joe Maricle; his paternal grandmother, Beulah Butter; and his maternal grandparents, Jack D. and Louanne Chandler.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his mother, Lisa Maricle of Forest Hill; his fiancé, Peggy Cole of Reeves; one son, Shawn Courville of Reeves; one daughter, Sofia Cole of Reeves; two brothers, Dylan Maricle (Erica) of Forest Hill and Dalton Maricle (Brittany) of Morganza; one sister, Jessica Hopkins (Justin) of Pollock; two nieces, Nikki Dufour (Noah) of Ball and Maddie Maricle of Lafayette; and his four legged companion of thirteen years, Bear.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Dylan Maricle, Dalton Maricle, Jeremy McElwee, Jeremy Maricle, Gene Benn, and Kenneth Perkins. Honorary pallbearers will be Shawn Courville and Noah Dufour.

The City of Alexandria Division of Community Services has announced the upcoming start of the Park Playground Project, which will bring renovations and facility upgrades to six city parks.

Parks included in the project are:
• Helen Black Park
• Deborah Bowman Park
• Charles F. Smith Park
• Cheatham Park
• Frank O. Hunter Park
• City Park

Renovations will include upgraded playground equipment, improvements to walking trails and sport courts, new seating and picnic areas, as well as landscaping and safety enhancements.

Officials noted that parks may be temporarily closed at times to ensure public safety during construction. Residents with specific needs are encouraged to provide advance notice, as accommodations may be possible depending on circumstances.

For updates or additional information, residents may contact the City of Alexandria Division of Community Services at (318) 449-5225.

Community leaders and residents recently gathered to mark a significant milestone with the unveiling of a historical marker at the former Huey P. Long Memorial Hospital site in downtown Pineville.

The ceremony was led by Mayor Bishop and highlighted the decades of history, medical advancements and community memories tied to the hospital, which served residents of Pineville and Central Louisiana for generations.

The project was made possible through cooperation between the City of Pineville and the Pineville Downtown Development District, whose partnership helped preserve and commemorate the site’s legacy.

During the dedication, Mike Wynne addressed the crowd, speaking about the significance of Huey P. Long in the hospital’s history and his broader impact on the region. U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson was also in attendance and shared remarks reflecting on the hospital’s role in serving citizens over the years.

The newly installed marker now stands as a permanent reminder of the site’s importance in public healthcare and Louisiana history. Visitors to the downtown area are encouraged to stop by and learn more about the legacy that shaped the community.

Louisiana Christian University’s Dean of Social Work Dr. Juanita Moorman practices what she professes.

Moorman, who lives in Oakdale, has served as the dean of the School of Social Work since August. She also continues to be a hands-on social worker, in addition to her academic duties at LCU. She said she believes it makes a world of difference—not just to her—but to her students.

“I enjoy being allowed to practice clinically and still teach,” she said. “It’s an opportunity at LCU that other schools don’t offer. I think that allows students a unique learning experience—even better than I was allowed in my own studies. It enriches the classroom.”

Faculty evaluations done by students echo that sentiment. Students appreciate having a professor who is still practicing what they are teaching them and preparing them to do professionally.

Moorman has supervised Drug Court in Vernon Parish for the past 13 years, and does group therapy for Drug Court in Beauregard and Allen parishes from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every Saturday.

Her work has even helped with recruitment for LCU’s Master of Social Work program. 

“There’s a shortage of licensed clinical social workers, especially in rural areas,” Moorman said. “Because of that, being able to practice clinically allows me to provide field experiences for those students.”

Moorman earned her Ph.D. in marriage and family therapy from the University of Louisiana Monroe and has been an associate professor of social work at LCU since 2018. She earned her MSW from Stephen F. Austin University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and her B.S. from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. 

When Moorman started in social work, she said she was taught that it was founded on a Judeo-Christian foundation, but that from 2007 to today, social work has lost that direction.

“But as long as we have Christian professors,” she said, “we can keep that foundation present for future generations of social workers.”

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson and his wife Heather recently visited Moorman’s classroom and left with the knowledge that students were not only learning, but under her care would become outstanding social workers.

“They are witnessing compassion modeled in real time by a professor who genuinely cares,” he said. “Dr. Moorman embodies that conviction every single day. She does not simply teach social work; she practices it. Her continued clinical service in our region reflects both professional excellence and a deep personal calling. Our students are learning from someone who is actively engaged in the very work they are preparing to do. Her work strengthens not only our classroom experience but the entire Central Louisiana community. She is helping address the shortage of licensed clinical social workers in rural areas while preparing the next generation of practitioners to serve with competence, compassion and conviction.” 

Treating the spiritual component of a person is essential to treating any other aspect, Moorman said. 

“We have to have a well-rounded generalist practice model, for social workers to be able to treat and intervene with all clients in a competent and confident manner,” Moorman said. “To ignore the spiritual component of a client is negligent.”

Moorman, who is a member of the Pentecostals of Alexandria Church, said there are many therapists who don’t include the spiritual in their treatment, and the clients suffer. Many of them don’t finish treatment, as a result, because they are not getting their needs met. 

Treating clients from a Christian perspective doesn’t mean preaching to them, she said.

Many of her clients in Drug Court were raised in church but have left their faith, but because of how she lives her life, she said, and how she treats them, many return to faith.

“Working with the recovery community is my calling,” she said. “It’s what God has put me here for. Teaching at LCU has helped me spread that calling.”

Johnson said Moorman represents the heart of LCU: scholarship rooted in faith, service grounded in calling, and education that transforms both students and communities. 

“We are grateful for her leadership,” he said, “and proud of the impact she continues to make across this region and beyond.”

LCU offers a BSW and MSW (3+1) degree to be completed in four years, which allows the graduate to sit for licensure and begin practicing therapy in a quicker route than a traditional four-year bachelor’s degree. For in-state recipients of the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) funds, this means you can complete both degrees during the four years of eligibility.  This is the most affordable program in the state of Louisiana.

“When you graduate with a BSW, you are eligible to become a registered social worker,” Moorman said. “You’ll have the credentials to practice even without the MSW, if you so choose. To do individual therapy, however, you need an MSW.”

Two tracks are available in the MSW program. 

The Behavioral Health track is for those who wish to practice clinically in private practice or other therapeutic settings. Moorman said there are some funding opportunities available to students in this program, as well as some employment-based internships that allow students to work while completing the program. 

The Advanced Generalist track is for students who want to work in a therapeutic setting and also go into administration. 

Students with a BSW that meets our criteria may qualify for advanced standing status.  This will allow those students to complete the MSW with 30 hours, whereas students without a BSW will be required to complete 60 hours. 

Both offer classes in the afternoon and evenings and a hi-flex model that allows for distance learning for students who can’t attend class in person. 

“They can livestream the class or watch recorded lectures on their own time so they can still participate in a meaningful way,” Moorman said. “We have students from across the country in the program because they want a Christian education.”

Taylor Ann Dauzart was born on February 22, 1990, and passed from this life on January 31, 2026. Taylor will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her service to her country, and her compassionate spirit.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday March 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Sieper Community Church located at 932 LA-465 Sieper, LA 71472.

Taylor worked as a dental assistant, where she took pride in caring for others and brightening the smiles of her patients. She honorably served in the Louisiana Army National Guard, demonstrating courage, discipline, and commitment to her community and state. Taylor furthered her education at San Jacinto College in Houston, Texas, SOWELA Technical Community College, and Unitech Training Academy.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Billie Eskew and Eva Lamartiniere; her uncle, Aaron Lamartiniere; her grandparents, Rickey and Vickie Lamartiniere; and her grandmother, Judy Dauzart.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved children, Anistyn Ryland and Paxton Dauzart; her mother Misty Pospisil and stepfather, Bradley Pospisil; her sisters, Krissan Fuselier, Chloe Dauzart, and Ariel Dauzart; her stepbrothers, Reese Pospisil, Braden Pospisil, and Mackenzie Pospisil; her grandfather, Larry Dauzart; her godparents, Tosha Ashley and Wayne Mayon; her aunts and uncles, Jamie Dauzart, Kristie Chumney, Jennifer Haltom, and Richard Dauzart; and her nephews, Vincent Naquin and Brantley Supple along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.

Taylor’s life was marked by love for her family and devotion to those closest to her. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

It is with a humble hearts that we remember the life of Wilbert Lee Hudson, Sr., who was born on June 11, 1944, in Pineville, Louisiana, and who left us to entertain the angels on February 25, 2026. Wilbert was a man who loved laughter, and he left a trail of smiles wherever he went. In the words of Charlie Chaplin, “A day without laughter is a day wasted,” and by this measure, Wilbert wasted not a single day.

Wilbert’s career path was as diverse as the jokes he loved to share. He spent years working in the baking industry before switching gears to car sales. However, his true passion was his work in the Prison Ministry, where he served for over 40 years. He understood that life was better when you were in service to others and he lived that truth every day. As someone who loved church and teaching God’s word as a Minister of the Gospel, he found fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of those who needed it most. Wilbert did everything with great love.

Public visitation will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 10:00am at the Alexandria Maranatha Seventh-Day Adventist Church, followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. Final committal rites will be at Garden of Memories. As we remember him, let us not mourn but celebrate the joy he brought into our lives and the love he left behind.

We invite you to leave your memories of Wilbert and upload photos to his memorial page. Share the joy and laughter he brought into your life, as we remember a man who truly understood that “laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” In the spirit of Wilbert’s love for laughter, let’s remember him with a smile and a warm heart.

A 47-year-old Pineville man was airlifted to a regional trauma center on Feb. 25 around 11 am following a reported fall from a roof in the Cedar Bend area near Natchez.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and emergency personnel with Natchitoches Regional Medical Center EMS were dispatched by the NATCOM 911 Center to the 300 block of Riverview Drive in reference to a medical emergency involving a person who had fallen from a roof.

Upon arrival, deputies and EMS requested air medical support. Deputies established a landing zone on property just off Riverview Drive to assist responding aircraft.

Pafford Air One responded to the scene and transported the injured man to a regional trauma center for treatment.

Sgt. C. Crow and Cpl. J. Dranguet responded on behalf of the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Special Victims Unit Detectives with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office obtained an arrest warrant for Gage Michael Kittinger on Feb. 20 in connection with an alleged incident of domestic violence.

During the investigation, deputies learned Kittinger was at a residence near the victim’s home and had made several threats toward the victim, law enforcement, and himself.

Due to the seriousness of the threats and concern for the safety of everyone involved, a search warrant was obtained and the RPSO SWAT Team was activated to assist.

RPSO SWAT responded to the 1300 block of Vallery Lane in Pineville on Feb. 22 around 5:30 pm to execute the search and arrest warrant for Kittinger.  RPSO SWAT and Negotiators implemented a coordinated and controlled response, utilizing communication and less-lethal resources to safely manage the situation. Over the course of approximately three hours, SWAT Negotiators and deputies worked to de-escalate the incident and take Kittinger into custody.

As a result of their efforts, Kittinger and an adult female exited the residence peacefully and were taken into custody without further incident. Kittinger was taken into custody on the warrants but was discovered to have injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident earlier in the weekend.  Kitinger was treated at a local hospital and after receiving proper medical care, on February 24, 2026, he was booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center for one count of domestic abuse battery strangulation, resisting, and probation violation. 

As their investigation continued, SVU Detectives were able to establish sufficient probable cause to obtain additional arrest warrants for one count of domestic abuse battery strangulation and one count of false imprisonment.  Today, Kittinger was re-arrested and booked on those warrants.

Kittinger remains in jail at the time of this release, being held on a $151,000 bond.

SVU Detectives say this is still an active, ongoing investigation.  The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring the safety of our community.

“The successful resolution of this situation reflects the professionalism, restraint, and commitment to public safety demonstrated by our SWAT Team, Negotiators and Patrol Deputies” said Sheriff Mark Wood.

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

Arrestee:             Gage Michael Kittinger, 27                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           96 Cedar Lane, Pineville, LA

Charges: 2 counts domestic abuse battery-strangulation                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              False imprisonment                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Resisting an officer                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Probation Violation

The Alexandria Fire Department responded to a two-alarm commercial structure fire on Feb. 25 morning in the 700 block of Bolton Avenue.

Fire crews were dispatched at approximately 12:26 a.m. and arrived on scene within two minutes of the initial alarm. The first responding unit reported a commercial building fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters entered the structure in an attempt to suppress the blaze but were forced to evacuate after the roof collapsed. The collapse led to the failure of the building’s front wall.

No injuries were reported.

Following an investigation, the Alexandria Fire Department identified and arrested Justin Garrett in connection with the incident. Garrett has been charged with simple arson.

Duane-Lee “Cricket” Cecilia Auenson Granger, 69, of Alexandria, LA was born on Wednesday, February 29, 1956 in Grand Isle, LA and passed away Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Jonesville, LA. Cricket was a light in every room she entered. Known for her sweet spirit and gentle heart, she had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. For many years, she faithfully served at Evergreen Assisted Living, where caring for others was not just her job but her calling. She treated every resident like family, offering kindness, patience, and a reassuring smile that meant more than words could say. Cricket never met a stranger; a simple conversation with her often turned into a lasting friendship. In her quiet moments, she found joy in sewing, creating beautiful pieces stitched with love and care. Above all, Cricket’s life was defined by compassion. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, service, and genuine love that will continue to comfort all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lenis and Jean Auenson II, sister, Jean Ann Tisdale, and her brother, Lenis Paul Auenson III.

Those left to cherish her sweet memory are her son, James Auenson Sr. (Latisha) of Coden, AL, three grandsons. Tyler Blaine Strancer, Wade Daniel Chumney, and James Michael Auenson, and also her special friend and roommate Freda Cooper.