Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. will host its upcoming state conference at the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria, with several events open to the public throughout the weekend.

As part of the conference, the fraternity is inviting community members to attend a Public Forum on Gun Violence on Friday, January 30, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The forum will focus on community awareness, dialogue, and solutions related to gun violence.

Later that evening, the fraternity will host its College Brothers Step Show and Stroll Off on Friday, January 30, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., featuring performances from college members celebrating tradition, culture, and unity.

The weekend will conclude with the Miss Old Gold & Black Scholarship Pageant on Saturday, January 31, at 7 p.m. The pageant highlights scholarship, leadership, and community involvement while supporting educational opportunities.

All events will take place at the Holiday Inn Downtown Alexandria. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. encourages the public to attend and take part in the weekend’s activities as the organization gathers for its state conference.

January 28, 1986, stands as one of the darkest days in the history of space exploration. Just 73 seconds after liftoff, the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart over the Atlantic Ocean, killing all seven crew members and shocking viewers around the world.

The mission had drawn unprecedented public attention due to the presence of Christa McAuliffe, a New Hampshire schoolteacher selected to become the first civilian educator in space. Millions of students watched the launch live in classrooms, making the tragedy especially traumatic for a generation of Americans.

Investigations later determined that the disaster was caused by the failure of O-ring seals in one of the shuttle’s solid rocket boosters. Cold temperatures on the morning of the launch compromised the seals, allowing hot gases to escape and ultimately leading to structural failure. Evidence revealed that engineers had raised concerns about the risks, but those warnings were not acted upon.

In the aftermath, NASA grounded the shuttle fleet and launched an extensive review of its procedures, management culture, and safety protocols. The Rogers Commission’s findings led to significant changes within the agency, emphasizing the importance of engineering judgment and transparency in decision-making.

The Challenger disaster reshaped public perception of space travel, underscoring the inherent risks of exploration. Memorials, scholarships, and educational programs were established in honor of the crew, ensuring their legacy would inspire future generations.

January 28 serves as a solemn reminder that progress often comes at great cost. The lessons learned from Challenger continue to influence aerospace safety and remind the nation of the human lives behind scientific ambition.

Sheriff’s detectives are continuing their search for information related to the disappearance of James Edward Jackson, who has now been missing for more than a year.

Jackson was officially reported missing on February 11, 2025, when patrol deputies took an initial report. Investigators later determined that Jackson was last seen in the Tioga area around November 1, 2024, and has not been seen or heard from since.

James Edward Jackson is described as a white male, 43 years old, standing approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a slim build and a full beard.

Despite ongoing investigative efforts, Jackson’s whereabouts remain unknown. Detectives say the passage of time has elevated the case to a cold investigation, though authorities continue to actively pursue new leads and encourage the public to come forward with any information.

Anyone with information regarding the location or circumstances surrounding the disappearance of James Edward Jackson is urged to contact Detective Matt Dauzat with the Criminal Investigations Division at the Tioga Substation at 318-641-6005, or the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office Main Office at 318-473-6700.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Robert Ellis Antoon at 11:00 am on Friday, January 30, 2026, at St. Rita Catholic Church, with The Very Rev. Craig Scott, VG officiating and concelebrated by Rev. Anthony Dharmaraj and Rev. Paul LaPalme. Interment will follow at Greenwood Memorial Park under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 am until 10:30 am on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the church, followed by a recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 am.

Robert Ellis Antoon, 79, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, in Alexandria, LA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Eunice Antoon.

Robert was born on March 29, 1946, in Alexandria, Louisiana. After graduating from Menard Memorial High School in 1964, he moved to Baton Rouge, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Biology from Louisiana State University. He later relocated to Houston and received his Doctor of Optometry in 1973. That same year, Robert opened Antoon Eye Center, where he faithfully served his community for 52 years. A lifelong member of the American Optometric Association and an active member of the Optometric Association for over five decades, he was deeply beloved by his patients for his compassion, generosity, and genuine care for others.

In addition to his private practice, Robert proudly served the 23rd Medical Group and the United States Air Force by providing the highest quality of medical care while working in the Optometry Clinic. He also served the England Air Force Base catchment area, where he earned accolades from both patients and hospital staff for his professionalism, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Robert was passionate about social justice, humanitarianism, and equality—values he carried into every aspect of his life and work. Affectionately known as “Magic” for his remarkable good fortune in sports, the nickname endured and was lovingly adopted by his grandchildren. He was known for his dry wit and playful humor, always eager to make others laugh. Above all, Robert was a devoted and loving husband to Terry Cortello, with whom he shared 46 years of marriage, father to Nicholas and Elizabeth, and grandfather to Adam, Patrick and Kate.

Robert’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his care, compassion, and integrity, leaving an enduring imprint on his family, his profession, and the community he served so faithfully.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Terry Antoon; his son, Nicholas Antoon; his daughter, Elizabeth Martin (Chris); his grandchildren, Adam Martin, Patrick Martin, and Katherine Martin; his brother, Thomas Antoon (Martha), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Gary Lahood, Trey Antoon, Chris Antoon, Robert Dalrymple, Rob Antoon, and Chris Martin.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Thomas Antoon, Ellis Saybe, Greg Ellington, Dr. Greg Gormanous, Glenn Cortello, Frank Cortello, Roy Martin, Chris Arny, Dr. Jaime Borrero, Joe Dalrymple, Scott Brame, Dr. Sam Bouz, and Dr. Bill Risinger.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, P.O. Box 230969, Houston, TX 77223.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Linda Sue Gaspard, dedicated nurse, and cherished member of our community. Linda was born on April 2, 1947, and she left us on Saturday, January 24, 2026. She was 78 years old.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 30, 2025 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where a celebration of Linda’s life will take place. Friends and family are invited to gather from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. We encourage all who knew and loved Linda to join us in honoring her memory and sharing stories of the joy she brought into our lives. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Linda was a devoted registered nurse at Pinecrest, tirelessly caring for her patients with the compassion and kindness that defined her. She spent over 45 years as a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where she not only attended services but also actively participated as the Choir Director of the 10 o’clock choir, sharing her love of music with the congregation. As a proud member of the Catholic Daughters, Linda devoted her time and energy to the service of others, exemplifying her strong faith.

Beyond her work and community service, Linda had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She loved to travel the world, embracing new cultures and experiences, and she had a special affection for animals, who seemed to sense her big heart from afar. Linda’s spirit of generosity will be remembered through her memorial contributions to the food pantry at Sacred Heart, a reflection of her commitment to help those in need.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Harrison and Agnes Baudin Gaspard.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sister, Mary Jo DeKeyzer, and numerous other family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the food pantry at Sacred Heart.

Louisiana Christian University is joining the Louisiana Baptists on a statewide Together Tour in 2026 to promote commitment and cooperation among churches and other Southern Baptist organizations across Louisiana.

“My goal in these meetings is to hear from all concerned,” said Executive Director for Louisiana Baptists Steve Horn. “What can we do better? What are we committed to doing moving forward? What should we be doing that we are not doing? What are we doing that Louisiana Baptists want us to stop doing? Where have we lost trust in this cooperative endeavor to do more together than we can do by ourselves?”

Horn said that this is not a plea to give more, but rather an opportunity to listen to all member organizations.

“We are listening to what you want to do cooperatively as we think about the next 100 years. At the same time, hear me say, ‘we cannot continue to do what we are doing without addressing the situation.’ “

In 2008, Louisiana Baptists gave $22,650,020 through the Cooperative Program. In 2024, Louisiana Baptists gave just over $17 million.

“We may not be at a crisis, but we are certainly at a crossroads,” Horn said.

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson said he will travel with Horn to stand with the Louisiana Baptist Convention and support the shared mission God has given Louisiana Baptists. An important part of that mission is Christian higher education.

Louisiana Christian University is the only Southern Baptist university in the state.

“This tour is about unity, trust, and advancing the Kingdom together,” Johnson said. “Louisiana Christian University exists because churches believed Christian higher education matters. I want our leaders to hear my gratitude for their prayers and support and to know that we are committed to faithful stewardship and a strong future.”

This past year, LCU provided $7.5 million in funded and unfunded scholarships to support young people who are in real need. Louisiana Baptists are helping those students, and the Cooperative Program is the engine that makes that possible. 

“As we continue to travel across the state, my hope is that more pastors and leaders will come, listen and also speak into our work, sharing ways we can improve and strengthen what we do to better advance the Kingdom of God, together,” Johnson said.

There will be approximately 40 listening sessions around the state in 2026.

Upcoming dates for the Together Tour include:

January 29
6 p.m.
Mt. Olive Association
First Baptist Oakdale
117 S 12th St., Oakdale

February 2
9 a.m.
Beauregard Association
First Baptist DeRidder
2030 Highway 171, DeRidder

February 3
11 a.m.
Bayou Macon/Madison Associations
FBC Oak Grove
608 E Main St., Oak Grove

February 5
11:30 a.m.
North Central Association
FBC Winnfield
201 East Court St., Winnfield

February 12
11 a.m.
Northwest Association
Woodridge Baptist Church
850 E Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport

February 12
6:30 p.m.
Bienville/Webster Claiborne Association
North Acres Baptist Church
1852 Lewisville Road, Minden

February 19
9:30 a.m.
Northeast Association
Association Office
7103 DeSiard St., Monroe

February 19
6:30 p.m.
Delta Association
First Baptist Vidalia
100 N Hickory St., Vidalia

February 26
10 a.m.
Rural Church Pastors Meeting
TBD

March 02
Noon
Gulf Coast Association
Forest Restaurant, Franklin
1909 Main St., Franklin

March 2
6 p.m.
Evangeline Association
Youngsville Community Church
4129 Verot School Road, Youngsville

March 7
8 a.m.
NOLA – Spanish
Iglesia Christiana Filadelfia
12131 Florida Blvd suite C and D, Baton Rouge

March 9
6:30 p.m.
Deer Creek Association

March 17
6:30 p.m.
LaSalle Association

March 19
10 a.m.
Baton Rouge (BAGBR)

April 21
6:30 p.m.
Bayou Association
Association Office
4494 West Main St., Gray

May 20
10:30 a.m.
NOLA Association

May 21
Noon
CenLA Association

For the latest information about dates and locations, visit the Together Tour website.

Enforcement agents with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) continued providing critical assistance to communities across the state as a winter storm impacted much of Louisiana, particularly northern parishes.

Since the onset of the storm, LDWF agents have completed 32 public assistance responses. Those efforts included helping motorists stranded in ditches and roadways, clearing debris from travel routes, assisting local law enforcement agencies, and responding to incidents involving five individuals stranded on the water.

Agents also played a key role in supporting essential services by providing transportation for essential workers. A total of 83 essential workers were transported to and from their shifts at the Northeast Louisiana Veterans Home in Monroe and the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Bossier City, ensuring continued care for residents during hazardous conditions.

LDWF Enforcement Division leadership praised agents for maintaining professionalism and effectiveness while operating under challenging weather conditions, noting their continued commitment to public safety despite significant obstacles.

LDWF officials said enforcement agents will remain available to assist as weather conditions evolve, emphasizing their ongoing role in emergency response and public safety operations statewide.

Services for Michael Unthank will be at 12:45, Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Richey Cemetery, Center Point, LA, under the direction of Magnolia Funeral Home, Alexandria, LA. Visitation will be at Magnolia Funeral Home from 9AM until 12PM.

Michael Unthank, 54, of Deville, LA, passed away January 19, 2026, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melinda Unthank; son, Benjamin Unthank and his mother, Barbara Unthank.

Those left t cherish his memory his son, Zachary Unthank; father and mother in law Jim Johnson and wife Laura; nephew Elden Dodge; niece, Lora Dodge and his brothers, Jesse Unthank, Pete Pope and Frank Byrd.

Mr. Michael DuWayne Roessler, a lifetime resident of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. A graduate of Bolton High School, he attended LSU-A and Louisiana College.

Memorial visitation for Michael will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 11:00-100 pm.

Michael was a hard worker. Beginning at age 5, he delivered newspapers in his neighborhood. From then on, he did odd jobs like cutting grass and other yard work. In high school, he worked in the lunchroom, assisted in the chemistry lab, ran the movie projector for teachers, and raised the flag every day. During summers he worked cutting grass and doing repairs at the three drive-inn theaters. During college, he hitchhiked from LSU-A and back most days to work at a fast-food restaurant between classes. After his marriage to Pamela, he worked 3 jobs, the US Forest Service, a department store, and a service station. He worked 7 days a week. Most of the time he had no vehicle and walked everywhere. He also worked extra time at the Forest Service so that he could attend various classes at Louisiana College. He kept this rigorous schedule for three years until Pamela finished school and gained employment.

On 6/3/2000, he retired from the US Forest Service after 38 years as a Physical Science Technician. While working for the Forest Service, Michael was involved in many research projects resulting in increased marketing of the South. The research was published in textbooks, including utilization of Hardwood Growing on Southern Pine Sites and Utilization of Southern Pine and Manufacturing Practices in the United States. His photographs were also used as covers on the magazines of Forest Products Journal and Southern Lumberman. During his forest service career, he received 6 certificates of merit, a certificate of achievement, and an excellence award from the US Department of Agriculture.

After 28 years of service as a Training NCO, Michael retired from the Army Reserves on 4/4/1995. He particularly enjoyed working with young recruits during their basic training. He earned the Meritorious Service Medal as well as the Army Commendation, Army Achievement, Army Reserve Components Achievement, National Defense Service and Armed Forces Reserve Medals. He also received the NCO Professional Development and Army Service Ribbons.

Being very involved in hunting and fishing, Michael belonged to the CENLA Bass Masters during the 1970’s and was District 3 VP of the Association of Louisiana Clubs. He was a previous member of the Bolton Avenue Lions Club, holding the office of Tail Twister, and he continued to support their program at the Crippled Children’s Camp. He was a life member of the Louisiana League for Crippled Children. He was also a member of the 40/8, having held offices of Medicine and Chef de Gar. He was also a lifetime member of AMVETS Post #7.

Besides fishing and hunting, Michael enjoyed snow skiing, riding four wheelers and traveling. He and his wife traveled through and or visited the 48 contiguous states. He hunted in Colorado and fished in Washington, Texas, Mexico and for many years from his camp at Toledo Bend.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, George LaVerne Roessler, Sr. and Virginia Jones Roessler; his wife of 52 years, Pamela; and his daughter, Christine.

He is survived by his brother, George Roessler, Jr. and sister, Margarette Anny Guynes (Harley).

The Rapides Parish School Board announced that the majority of its schools and offices will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 27 following assessments related to recent weather conditions.

District leaders reported that school administrators, custodial teams, maintenance staff, and bus operators spent Monday evaluating facilities and road conditions across the parish. The district has also remained in close communication with the National Weather Service, CLECO, and local officials.

Based on those assessments, all RPSB schools and offices will be open Tuesday with the exception of Northwood High School (PK–12). Northwood High School will remain closed due to continued power outages in the area and the presence of some impassable roads.

Because of extremely cold temperatures expected early Tuesday morning, all students across the district will be allowed an out-of-uniform dress day. Students are encouraged to dress warmly and comfortably.

District officials expressed appreciation for the efforts of school and operations teams whose work throughout the weather event helped make it possible for schools to reopen safely.

UPDATED: January 26, 2026 at 6am

All administrative offices of the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office will reopen Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

LSUA’s Division of Strategic Communications received national recognition at the 46th Annual Telly Awards, earning four awards for video content produced to promote the university across television, digital, and social platforms. The honors mark a significant milestone for the team, which received its first national video recognition just one year ago.

LSUA earned three Silver Telly Awards in 2025, including recognition for “Are You Ready?” in the General Education category for locally aired television commercials promoting educational institutions. Filmed and directed by Multimedia Coordinator Nathan Parish and featuring LSUA student Kyrn Baker as the lead talent, the commercial highlighted the many ways an LSUA degree empowers students to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. The spot served as the cornerstone of LSUA’s Fall 2025 television marketing campaign, reinforcing the university’s focus on purpose-driven education and workforce readiness.

A second Silver Telly was awarded for “Let’s Get to Work,” recognized in the General Education category for social media video and also filmed and directed by Parish. The video featured interviews with three LSUA students who completed internships with local employers, sharing how their academic preparation and real-world experience left them confident and ready for life after graduation.

The Division also received a Silver Telly Award for “With Gratitude: LSUA Class of 2024,” honored in the Craft—Use of Vertical Format category, which recognizes impactful storytelling through vertical video. Directed by Mira Alvarado, with Parish serving as Director of Photography, the piece featured graduating seniors speaking directly to the camera, expressing gratitude to faculty and family who supported their academic journeys. The video was showcased during commencement ceremonies as a reflective tribute from the Class of 2024.

Rounding out the honors, LSUA earned a Bronze Telly Award for “Walk This Way,” an online commercial filmed and directed by Parish in the General Education category. The fast-paced montage highlighted LSUA’s hands-on, technology-driven learning environment, featuring visuals of 3D printing, drones, coding, laser cutting, and other innovative tools, preparing students for modern careers.

Reflecting on receiving the honors, LSUA Multimedia Coordinator Nathan Parish said, “Visual storytelling is about more than just capturing high-quality footage; it’s about translating the energy and ambition of our students into something people can feel. Winning these Telly Awards is an incredible honor, but the real reward is knowing that these stories, whether told through a traditional commercial or a vertical social clip, are resonating on a national stage and showing the world what LSUA is on the rise.”

Founded in 1979, the Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. This year’s competition drew more than 13,000 entries from all 50 states and six continents, representing work from leading advertising agencies, production companies, television networks, and educational institutions worldwide. This year’s theme, “Stories Take Shape,” highlighted how creators blend traditional storytelling with emerging formats to connect with audiences in new ways.

Adam Lord, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications, said the recognition affirms the team’s creative direction and purpose. “LSUA continues to earn the attention and respect of a national audience, and we are doing what I believe is competitive, meaningful work,” Lord said. “We’re not an agency, and we don’t have extensive resources, but we do have talented people doing good work telling the stories of excellence and success at LSUA. These awards are an indication that we’re doing the right things, the right way.”

The 2025 wins build on momentum from 2024, when LSUA received its first national Telly Award. Together, the honors reflect LSUA’s growing national visibility and the Division of Strategic Communications’ commitment to authentic storytelling that elevates the student experience and the university’s mission.

Written by Adam Lord
Photo credit – LSUA Strategic Communications

State and local leaders recently gathered in Pineville to tour and discuss the future of two long-neglected properties: the former Central Louisiana State Hospital grounds and the old Huey P. Long Hospital site. The visit marked an early step in a coordinated effort to address blight and explore redevelopment opportunities for the historic locations.

Rapides Parish Police Juror Randy Wiggins of District B joined State Representative Mike Johnson, Mayor Bishop, Senator Luneau, Representative Larvadain, and representatives from several state agencies for the on-site tour. Both properties have remained vacant for years and have deteriorated significantly, creating concerns related to safety, infrastructure, and unrealized economic potential.

Officials said the meeting was focused on moving beyond long-standing stagnation and beginning a practical assessment of what it would take to prepare the sites for future use. Discussions centered on infrastructure capabilities, including water, sewer, and power systems, as well as environmental challenges that must be addressed before redevelopment can move forward.

Leaders emphasized that addressing blight is a top priority, noting that the condition of the properties has become a concern for surrounding neighborhoods and the broader Pineville community. The goal, officials said, is to transform the sites from long-standing liabilities into assets that support growth, safety, and opportunity.

The meeting also highlighted a collaborative approach among local officials, state lawmakers, and Baton Rouge stakeholders aimed at cutting through bureaucratic obstacles that have historically delayed progress on large-scale redevelopment projects. Officials said coordination with state partners will be key to securing resources and attracting developers capable of revitalizing the properties.

While no redevelopment plans have been finalized, leaders described the tour as an important first step. Additional assessments and discussions are expected as officials work toward a long-term vision for the sites that supports a growing and vibrant Pineville.

Stephon Schency Kelly, Jr., affectionately known as “Steph,” was a man of spirited character, loving warmth, and infectious humor. Born on February 27, 1988, in Alexandria, LA, Stephon spent his formative years here, a place he always considered home. His adventurous spirit led him to the offshore drilling rigs as a Kitchen Crew Leader, a job he took very seriously. Despite his demanding career, Stephon always found time for things he enjoyed like basketball, horseback riding, spending time with family and most importantly, his children. Stephon was known for his playful demeanor and spontaneous adventures, which were always full of fun and laughter. He was adored by his friends and family who will miss him dearly.

Stephon’s life will be honored by his loving parents, Stephon Kelly Sr. and Monica Winn Dugger. His legacy will live on through the countless stories and memories that his loved ones will cherish forever.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at New Scott Olly Baptist Church, 2627 Willow Glen River Road, Alexandria, Louisiana. Following the service, Stephon will be laid to rest at Garden of Memories, 2733 Eddie Williams Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana. A public viewing and visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10:00 am at New Scott Olly Baptist Church.

Professional services are under the direction of Miller & Hill Funeral Directors. We kindly ask that you keep Stephon’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

We invite you to leave your memories and upload photos of Stephon to the memorial page, a lasting tribute to a man who made the world a little brighter with his funny, loving, spirited, and adventurous presence.

Family and friends of Charles Louis Winegeart are invited to join in celebrating his life at 11:00 a.m. on January 29, 2026, at Liberty Church, Alexandria, with Reverends Frank Peacock and Andrew Stokes officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Charles was born on September 5, 1947, to John W. Winegeart and Edna Jeffers Winegeart. He served his country from 1967-1992, including service in the Vietnam and First Persian Gulf Wars. He was very skilled in mechanical abilities, often teaching these skills to soldiers under his leadership. Charles married his sweetheart, Julia Ellen Monk, on June 1, 1969, and was blessed with three children: two sons, Jason Ross Winegeart and Brent Tyson Winegeart; and one daughter, Amy Marie Winegeart Bedgood (Tim).

Charles was a quiet man of integrity with a warm smile, a big heart, and a great sense of humor. He enjoyed working on his farm, raising cattle, chickens, and vegetables, sharing generously with neighbors, relatives, and friends. He also helped the local food bank and had his own business. He was described as “genuine” by one of his friends, “What you see, is what you get.”

He was a loving, devoted husband and father. As a faithful member of Amiable Baptist Church and Liberty Church, he raised his family in a Godly home and honored his wife. He enjoyed traveling, being with his family, and Bible study. He loved his country, he loved his family, and above all, he loved his Jesus.

During his lifetime, he buried his parents, John and Edna Winegeart; his brother, Kenneth Winegeart; four of his five sisters, Audrey Davis, Pauline Melder, Verla White, and Geraldine Nessmith; and one son, Jason Ross Winegeart. He went home to be with his Savior on January 23, 2026.

We, his family, continue to honor his life by living and sharing the love of God with others. He is survived by his wife of almost fifty-seven years, Ellen Monk; his children, Amy Bedgood (Tim) and Brent Winegeart; his grandson he dearly loved, Tristan Timothy Bedgood; and his one and only granddaughter, Amellyn Grace Bedgood.

Friends and family will celebrate together between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Glenmora. Visitation will resume on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Liberty Church, Alexandria, with homegoing services to follow at 11:00 a.m. Until the Lord returns, his earthly temple will rest at Campground Cemetery in Glenmora, Louisiana.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Brent Winegeart, Tim Bedgood, Tristan Bedgood, Joshua Wells, Jody Bailey, Joseph Greene, Dale Winegeart, and Charles Brossett. Honorary pallbearers will be Earl Monk, Clyde Wells, James Lee, and Amellyn Bedgood.

In his memory, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cenla Food Bank or Campground Cemetery Association.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office reports that precipitation has ended across the region and the threat of freezing rain has passed, prompting the cancellation of the Ice Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory. However, temperatures are expected to fall below freezing late Sunday, creating the potential for black ice overnight into Monday where standing water remains. Very cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills are also forecast for Sunday night, Monday night, and Tuesday night. Residents are urged to use caution while traveling and remain alert to changing conditions.

For the safety of our patients, colleagues and community, most non-urgent and non-emergent services at Rapides Regional Medical Center will either be closed or with reduced operating hours on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026, due to the winter storm forecast to impact Central Louisiana this weekend.

Services and departments that will be closed on Monday include:
• Rapides Specialty Clinic
• Cardiac Rehab
• HP Long Clinics

Services and departments that plan to open at noon on Monday include:
• Rapides Outpatient Center
• Rapides Cancer Center
• Rapides Regional Physician Group clinics

The Emergency Room of Rapides Regional Medical Center will remain open.

Preparations have been made to house on campus Rapides Regional Medical Center colleagues that are concerned about travel but have shifts scheduled for this weekend to ensure patient care is not impacted.

The Rapides Parish Courthouse and all Rapides Parish Police Jury offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to threatening and inclement arctic winter weather. The closure is in accordance with Governor Jeff Landry’s State of Emergency Declaration No. JML 26-006.

The closure includes the Police Jury’s administrative offices, the Parish Public Works Department, the Rapides Sales and Use Tax Department Office, the Civil Service Office, and the Workforce Operations Department Office.

Parish officials said the decision was made to ensure the safety of employees and the public during hazardous weather conditions. Additional information regarding reopening will be provided as conditions improve.

The announcement was issued by Craig Smith, president of the Rapides Parish Police Jury.

Rapides Parish Public Schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 26, 2026, due to expected winter weather conditions. The National Weather Service and local authorities have forecast freezing rain beginning Saturday evening and continuing into Sunday, creating hazardous road conditions that are expected to persist.

Officials warned that travel will be restricted for all teams, clubs, and organizations over the weekend due to potential road closures.

District leaders said they will continue to monitor weather conditions and building safety throughout the event. A decision regarding a safe return to school and work will be made by 2 p.m. on Monday.

Students from across Rapides Parish showcased their math skills during the District Math Bee held at the Rapides Parish School Board Central Office, where feeder system champions competed for district honors.

The competition highlighted students’ speed, accuracy and ability to perform under pressure. District officials recognized three top performers for their outstanding achievements. Elise B. of Tioga Elementary earned first place, followed by Janiyah L. of L.S. Rugg Elementary in second place. Cole L. of Glenmora High School placed third.

School officials praised all participating students for their dedication and enthusiasm for learning, noting that each competitor demonstrated strong preparation and a commitment to academic excellence.

The District Math Bee is part of the school board’s ongoing efforts to encourage academic achievement and celebrate student success across all grade levels.

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) advises airline passengers to closely monitor weather forecasts and the airlines’ flight-status updates prior to planned travel in the coming days. Inclement weather may impact travel conditions, both on roadways and in the air.

“Our primary concern is safety – for all those impacted, as well as that of our facilities,” said Ralph Hennessy, Executive Director of England Airpark and AEX. “Our AEX operations team, along with our airline partners and air traffic controllers, work together to ensure passenger safety, minimize disruptions, and otherwise support travelers. We encourage travelers to stay informed of weather conditions and their potential impacts on flight schedules.”

What Travelers Should Do:
1. Verify flight status – Visit your airline’s website or app for real-time updates on flight status.
2. Plan ahead – Check the weather forecasts, not only for the Alexandria area, but also your destination. Build in extra travel time to the airport and anticipate possible weather-related flight delays or cancellations.
3. Pack essentials – Pack necessary items, such as medications and device chargers, in your carry-on in case of unexpected delays.

In addition to monitoring airline sites, AEX travelers can find arrivals and departures at flyaex.org.

Due to a main water line requiring immediate repair, Buckeye High School will be closed on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Hayden R. Lawrence PreK-8 and Buckeye Elementary School will remain open and operating on their regular schedules. Admin appreciates the cooperation of the Buckeye High School community as it addresses this necessary repair to ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.