The artwork of Rick Soileau will be on display at Louisiana Christian University’s first art show of the spring semester, Thursday, January 29, at 5 p.m. in the Weathersby Fine Arts Building Gallery.

Soileau is the art teacher at Tioga High School.

“I have been blessed in so many ways throughout my life,” he said. “Art has always been an important part of my journey, and the collection of my work over the last 50 years gives a glimpse into my artistic journey.”

This exhibition is a retrospective, presenting a comprehensive body of work spanning the artist’s entire career. 

The show is free and open to the public and counts as a cultural credit for students.

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A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Bob McBride at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral with Msgr. James Ferguson, JCL officiating. Entombment will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens Mausoleum under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until time of mass at the church on Tuesday.

Bob McBride passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Those to cherish him are Hilda Smith McBride, his wife of almost 67 years; his daughter Deborah McBride Novotny-Upton (Greg); his sons, David Michael McBride (Elissa) and Robert Daniel McBride (Julie); his grandchildren, Warren Ehlers (Storm), Martin Novotny (Mariena) and Aaron Novotny, Michael McBride, Sean McBride, Fenton McBride and Greta McBride; his great-children, Rowan Ehlers, Maple Ehlers and Nathan Novotny, and a great many nieces and nephews.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Rufus Marion McBride and Ruth Ola Futrell McBride; his sisters Frankie McBride Lofton and Jo Nell McBride Stewart; his brothers, Howard Lee McBride, Dalton McBride, Charles Ray McBride and Travis McBride.

Born in a time when life was driven by working the land to be able to eat was a means of survival.

Bob came from a farming family coping with the depression era and the beginnings of WWII. He carried his work ethic acquired by honest humble parents, four brothers and two sisters. Attending Louisiana College, LSU and Ottawa University he had long career in healthcare. He was a medical technologist, Lab Director and hospital administrator. In later years he became involved with nursing home management and group home supervision. He officially retired at the age of 81.

During his vast careers he shared his life with his wife of almost 67 years, raising three children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

If you knew Bob, you could trust his word. He showed up for everybody else first. He was undeniably a kind soul. He was a quiet man with fair and careful thought. Bob’s life was centered in kindness and sincerity. If you are reading this, you know all of these words barely scratched the surface nor address the breadth of Bob’s gift of love and caring commitment to an honorable life.

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A memorial service for Cindy Kaye Bordelon, of Pineville, will be set at a later date.

Cindy Bordelon, age 54, passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Avoyelles Hospital in Marksville.

Cindy had a deep love for fishing and found peace and joy outdoors. A hard worker through and through, she approached life with determination, a bubbly spirit, and a smile that rarely left her face. Known for her big heart and genuine love for animals, she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for. She proudly worked at the Daiquiri Hut for seven years, where her positive attitude and friendly nature left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers.

Those left to cherish her memory are her mother, Cheryl Bordelon of Pineville; brother, Kenneth Bordelon of Alexandria; sister, Brandy Bordelon (Brandy) of Hessmer; nephew, Zaylen Gauthier of Hessmer; and her niece, Madison Bordelon of Alexandria.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Louis Bordelon; and her nephew, Kobe Bordelon.

The family requests that no one send flowers. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Ms. Cheryl Bordelon in honor of Cindy Kaye Bordelon.

Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home of Marksville (334 Acton Rd.) has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

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Paula was born in 1896. In 1903, when Paula was six years old, her father died from a lung hemorrhage. Her mother was left with only his meager pension to raise Paula and her brother. In 1907, when Paula was 11 years old and her brother was 18, her mother died from breast cancer. The government provided them with a small pension to ease their burden. Paula’s brother, a romantic, idealistic, and fantasy-oriented teenager, was away at the time of his mother’s death studying fine arts. He dreamed of being a famous artist. He wanted everyone around the world to know his name. He had little money, but he knew he would have better opportunities to earn money than his 11-year-old sister, so he selflessly transferred his share of the pension to her. Paula’s brother sometimes sold a watercolor painting or two to get by, but most of the time he took whatever manual labor job he could get.

For years, Paula and her brother had little contact. When they saw each other they bickered, as most siblings do but they had genuine affection for each other. Paula’s brother struggled to build his reputation as a painter. They both took menial jobs just to survive. He fought during World War I but never gave up on his dream. After the war, he tried to build his reputation as an artist again, but few people had money to buy non-essential items such as watercolor paintings. Paula’s brother began working in politics, but continued painting. When Paula lost her job because of her connection to him, he began sending her money each month to help. He fought during World War II and painted when he had the opportunity. Paula’s brother considered himself, “an artist by nature and not a politician.” He said, “I will end my life as an artist.” In April 1945, Paula saw her brother for the last time. During their visit, they talked for a short time. When it was time for her to leave, he gave her a large amount of money. Two weeks later, he died from a gunshot wound.

Paula lived off the money that her brother had given her for several years and then returned to menial jobs for survival. She died in poverty in 1960. At the time of Paula’s brother’s death, few people knew him as an artist. Now, practically everyone knows his name. His paintings are in collections all over the world and often fetch high prices when they come up for auction. Sometimes, people protest the sale of his paintings. Most people are interested in his paintings, not because of their beauty, but for another reason entirely. For several decades, Paula Wolff kept a secret. She was living under an assumed last name. In the 1930s, Paula’s brother insisted that she adopt the last name Wolff to shield her from his reputation. He was still protecting her. You see, Paula’s real last name was Hitler. Her brother was Adolf.

Sources:

1. Daily News (Sydney, Australia), September 22, 1939, p.1.

2. The Daily News Leader (Staunton, Virginia), November 22, 1992, p.8.

3. The Bolton News, September 27, 2006, p.4.

4. “Alois Hitler Sr.,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11646/alois-hitler.

5. “Klara Pölzl Hitler,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11645/klara-hitler.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office took part in the annual Students Exploring Career Opportunities (SECO) Expo, an event designed to introduce tenth-grade students across Central Louisiana to a wide range of career paths.

The SECO Expo is presented each year by The Orchard Foundation in partnership with nine public school districts in Central Louisiana. The student-focused event features interactive simulations and hands-on activities aimed at increasing engagement and sparking interest in future careers.

As a participating exhibitor, deputies with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spoke with students about careers in law enforcement and showcased some of the equipment and tools used in their daily work.

The goal of the interaction was to give students a firsthand look at the responsibilities and opportunities associated with a career in public safety.

At the conclusion of the event, students voted for the exhibitors they enjoyed most, and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office was selected as one of the top exhibitors.

Sheriff’s Office officials said the recognition was meaningful, but the greater achievement was the opportunity to connect with students and make a positive impact. Deputies expressed hope that some of the students may one day pursue careers in law enforcement.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office thanked The Orchard Foundation for the opportunity to participate and indicated plans to return for the event next year.

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Rapides Parish law enforcement agencies are set to benefit from new federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget.

According to a press release issued Jan. 15, Congresswoman Letlow secured $1.3 million in Community Project Funding to support law enforcement agencies across Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District. The funding was approved through the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill, which recently cleared Congress.

For Rapides Parish, the funding will be distributed through the Red River Delta Law Enforcement Planning Council and will support equipment and vehicle purchases for the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, the City of Alexandria Police Department, and the City of Pineville Police Department.

The funding is intended to enhance public safety by providing updated law enforcement equipment and technology, including police cruisers, K-9 resources, correctional surveillance systems, automatic external defibrillators, body armor, mobile data terminals, in-unit mobile radios, license plate readers, security camera systems, portable radios, and other public safety tools.

Congresswoman Letlow stated the funding was secured to ensure law enforcement agencies, particularly in rural communities, have access to reliable equipment that allows them to respond quickly to emergencies and better protect residents.

The investment is expected to strengthen law enforcement operations across Rapides Parish by improving officer safety, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and expanding the use of modern technology in day-to-day policing.

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Members of the Alexandria Lions Club, along with representatives from District 8-I, attended the LIO Midwinter Conference held this weekend at the Louisiana Lions Camp.

During the conference, Lion Ethel presented Lion Ray Cecil with a quilt made from squares designed by Lions from across MD8. The presentation highlighted the collaboration and fellowship among Lions throughout the district.

Leos from District L also participated in the weekend’s activities, joining Lions in a service project at the camp. Club members said the event provided an opportunity for service, teamwork, and connection with fellow Lions from around the region.

The Alexandria Lions Club noted the weekend was both productive and enjoyable, reinforcing the organization’s ongoing commitment to service and community involvement.

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Michael Eugene Holloway, 59, of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center, Alexandria, LA.

He was a loving son and brother. Michael was a free spirit who took life as it came. He loved music, especially the guitar, and he was his sister’s baby. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd Eugene and Lillie Mae Lee Holloway; one brother, David Holloway; and one brother-in-law, Gregg Rouch.
Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include one brother, Daniel Holloway of Alexandria; two sisters, Marie McAdams (Paul) of Maryville, Tennessee, and Lynn Rouch of Alexandria; and numerous nieces and nephews.
All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA.

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Stacey Lyn Bailey Smith, age 52, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away on January 15, 2026.

Stacey was born on September 13, 1973, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to James Bailey and Ruby Tuzzolo. She was a proud graduate of Hicks High School.

Above all else, Stacey was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and devoted Mimi. She lived her life side by side with her husband, sharing 33 years of love, laughter, and partnership. Through him, she discovered a deep passion for fishing and hunting, enjoying the simple joy of being outdoors together.

Somewhere along the way, wife became Mama and Mama became Mimi. When the grandbabies came along, Stacey stood on business. When those little critters came along, everyone else became chopped liver. IYKYK.

Stacey worked faithfully for Wal-Mart for 16 years and later served in the cafeteria at Hicks High School, where she always had a smile waiting for the kids. She was known for her strong work ethic, kind heart, and willingness to help wherever she was needed.

She was a true Dolly Parton fanatic, never missing a chance to celebrate the music and spirit she loved so much.

Stacey never was one who liked attention but, was somehow always the life of the party.

Stacey also had an endless amount of love for her beloved Bubba, her kids: J-Bird, and Stormcat; her grandbabies: Pusscat, Kreek Kreek, Rooster, and Ro Ro-each one holding a special place in her heart.

Stacey is survived by her parents James and Joy Bailey and Charles and Ruby Tuzzolo; Brothers, Chad Bailey (Donna) and Jason Bailey and sisters, Crystal Williams (JD) and Candice Bailey; her loving husband of 33 years, Kendall Smith; her son, James Kenneth Smith; her daughter, Stormi Lynn Smith (Charlie); and her cherished grandchildren, Shelby, Kreek Whitley, Ruby, and Roland, who brought her immeasurable joy and father-in-law Kenneth Smith.

She was preceded in death by her precious granddaughter, Kyndal Rain Dowden, and her mother-in-law, Janet Marie Smith.

She is survived by a host of nephews, nieces, family, friends and special sister Regina Kay Smith.

A service celebrating Stacey’s life will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Labby Funeral Home. Burial will follow at LaCamp Pentecostal Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 18th from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Stacey’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

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Sheriff’s detectives have arrested a Hessmer man following an investigation into multiple copper wire thefts in the Echo-Poland area near LA-1 South.

Over the past week, detectives investigated several incidents involving the theft of AT&T copper wire. Authorities reported that suspects cut telephone service lines from utility poles, causing poles to break and disrupting telephone service to residents and a nearby school. Investigators said equipment used in the thefts, including clothing items, was left behind at multiple scenes and submitted for DNA analysis.

Detectives also reported that piles of aluminum sheathing and wire were left along nearby railroad tracks, creating a potential hazard that could threaten the safe operation of Union Pacific and Kansas City Railroad trains.

Officials estimate the suspects obtained approximately $100,000 worth of copper over the course of a week and caused more than $30,000 in damage to AT&T property.

On Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated an operation to locate and apprehend the suspects. The operation included deputies from the Crime Suppression Unit, Patrol-Resident Deputy Division, RADE K-9, and Special Operations.

Around midnight, CSU deputies observed a white Ford F-150 stop along the roadway in the area where the thefts had occurred. When deputies attempted to make contact, the driver turned off the vehicle’s lights and fled. Deputies pursued the vehicle, which was intercepted near Lamourie Road and LA-457. The driver, identified as Curry Michael Cooper of Hessmer, was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

With assistance from detectives from the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, RPSO detectives established probable cause and obtained a search warrant for Cooper’s residence in Hessmer. During the search, investigators located leftover wire sheathing, aluminum, multiple cutting tools, wire strippers, narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.

Cooper was booked on three counts of trespassing or remaining after forbidden, three counts of criminal damage greater than $1,000 but less than $50,000, and three counts of theft greater than $5,000 but less than $25,000. He is currently being held on a $30,500 bond. Charges from the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office remain pending.

Sheriff’s detectives stated that the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are possible. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact Detective Ronald Dye at the Criminal Investigations Division Main Office at 318-473-6700, the RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700, or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative proceeding.

Arrestee:
Curry Michael Cooper, Jr., 39
725 Little Corner Road, Hessmer, LA

Charges:
Three counts trespassing or remaining after forbidden
Three counts criminal damage greater than $1,000 and less than $50,000
Three counts theft greater than $5,000 and less than $25,000

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The City of Pineville has announced Rose Waguespack Hayes as its 2026 Mardi Gras Queen, recognizing her longstanding commitment to service and advocacy for veterans throughout the community.

City officials noted that Hayes’ dedication to supporting veterans reflects Pineville’s continued emphasis on honoring those who have served in the armed forces. Her work spans multiple organizations focused on remembrance, outreach, and direct support for veterans and their families.

Hayes serves as the Location Coordinator for Wreaths Across America at Alexandria National Cemetery, overseeing efforts to honor fallen service members during the holiday season. She is also an auxiliary member and public relations officer for the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, an auxiliary member of AmVets Post 7 where she participates in the Sunday Cookout Crew providing monthly meals for local veterans, an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and a Disabled American Veterans auxiliary life member.

City leaders said Hayes’ extensive involvement demonstrates a deep and sustained commitment to ensuring veterans are recognized and supported year-round.

Hayes will be featured during Pineville’s Night of Lights Parade, the only nighttime Mardi Gras parade held in Rapides Parish. The parade is scheduled for Friday, February 6, at 7 p.m., with festivities beginning at the Pineville Riverfront. The route will travel along Main Street and conclude at the “Y” split at Donahue Ferry Road and Military Highway, just past Louisiana Christian University.

She will be joined during the parade by Grand Marshal Col. Deville as Pineville celebrates the upcoming Mardi Gras season.

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Rapides Parish Fire District 12 has taken delivery of new life-saving equipment made possible through a federal grant awarded last year.

The district was notified in September 2025 that it had been awarded a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant that was originally applied for in 2024. Funding for the grant was temporarily delayed due to a government shutdown, but once operations resumed and the funding was secured, the district moved forward with purchasing new equipment.

An order was placed in December, and the equipment arrived last week. Through the grant, the district purchased 20 new MSA G1 self-contained breathing apparatus units along with 20 spare cylinders from Casco Fire Equipment.

The new equipment replaces SCBAs that are approximately 22 years old, are no longer supported with replacement parts, and have been in service with the district for more than two decades. The upgraded SCBAs will allow all district apparatus to meet current PIAL requirements.

District officials expressed appreciation to all individuals and partners involved in the grant process, noting that the upgrade would not have been possible without their support.

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Alexandria International Airport (AEX) reminds travelers of a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) process intended to improve security and streamline identity verification for air travelers without an acceptable form of ID. Beginning Feb. 1, 2026, travelers aged 18 and older who do not present an acceptable form of ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or U.S. passport, will have the option to pay a $45 fee to attempt to verify their identity through TSA’s modernized alternative identity-verification process, TSA ConfirmID.

About TSA ConfirmID:
1. Affects only travelers aged 18 and older who do not present a TSA-approved form of ID
2. Verifies travelers’ identity using biographic/biometric data
3. Assesses travelers a non-refundable, $45 administrative fee
4. Covers verification for up to 10 days; pay again for subsequent travel without proper ID
5. Does not guarantee a successful security screening, only the verification process

“The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA Adam Stahl in a December 1, 2025, press release on the new service. Travelers who do not have an acceptable form of ID are encouraged to pay the $45 TSA ConfirmID fee online at Pay.gov prior to their flight for a more efficient airport security screening.

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Services for Michael Allen Wale, Sr. will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at John Kramer & Son Funeral Home, with Rev. Brent Wale officiating. Interment will follow at Wale Family Cemetery in Woodworth, LA.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM at John Kramer & Son Funeral Home in Alexandria. Visitation will resume on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Michael Allen Wale Sr. (Killer Wale), age 69, a resident of Denham Springs, Louisiana, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Denham Springs. He was born on January 3, 1957, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Michael graduated from Oakdale High School in 1975 and went on to dedicate much of his life to serving his country. He joined the United States Army in 1981 and honorably served for a combined total of 30 years in the U.S. Army and Active Guard Reserves. Rising to the rank of Sergeant Major, Michael distinguished himself as a born leader. His service included a tour with the 82nd Airborne Division. Among his many honors and awards were the Expert Infantryman Badge, Jungle Expert Badge, Parachutist Expert Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Ray Wale Sr. and Marian Virginia Totten Wale, his granddaughter, Finley Douglas Beavers; and his nephew, Derrick Matthew Richmond.

He is survived by the mother of his children, Diane King Wale; their children, Diane Michelle Rachal (David), Jessica Paul (Hethe), Miranda Hroch (Russell), Brittany Weaver (Chris), Alyssa Beavers (Douglas), and Michael Allen Wale Jr. (Karen). He is also survived by his beloved 16 grandchildren: Madeleine Rachal, Clinton Rachal, Shelby Paul, McKenzie Paul Wiltz (Dustin), Aubree Paul, Hailee Hroch, Nick Hroch, Addison Weaver, Kingston Weaver, Damien Bracey, Kennedy Beavers, Hadley Beavers, Lainey Wale, Isabella Wale, Connor Wale, and Luke Wale.

Additional survivors include his brother, Charles Ray Wale Jr. (Debbie), his sister, Mary McAfee; numerous nieces and nephews; and his longtime girlfriend, Susan Gaudin.

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Carl Joseph Braud Jr., known to many as “Mickey,” was born on October 25, 1936, to Carl J. Braud and Louise A. Braud. He passed away on December 31, 2025, at Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, Louisiana, with his immediate family at his side.

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Carl was raised alongside his four brothers: Larry Braud, Rudolph Braud (deceased), Delano Braud (deceased), and Fernand Braud (deceased). He attended Corpus Christi School and graduated from Xavier Preparatory School.

Carl proudly served his country, first enlisting in the U.S. Army for three years before later joining the U.S. Air Force. He retired from the Air Force with the rank of Master Sergeant. Following his military career, Carl worked as an insurance agent, a diesel mechanic offshore, an inspector at Boeing in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and later as an aide at Central Hospital in Pineville, Louisiana.

On January 10, 1959, Carl married Joel Agnes Harrison. The couple shared 52 years of marriage until her passing and together raised seven children. He is survived by six of his children: Carl J. Braud III (daughter-in-law Francis), Gregory Braud (daughter-in-law Evelyn), Jaqueline A. Braud Lacour (son-in-law Beltrand), Terrance Braud (daughter-in-law Veronica), Manuel Braud (daughter-in-law Carolyn), and Daniel Braud (daughter-in-law Artie, deceased). He was preceded in death by his son, Jeffery Braud (daughter-in-law Mary).

Carl later married Yvonne Plessy Mitchell on September 21, 2013, and they remained together until his passing.

He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; his brother, Larry Braud; three sisters-in-law, Brenda, Leslie, and Barbara; his uncle, Gerald Braud; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Carl was a loving husband and father, remembered by those who knew him as an all-around good man. He enjoyed cooking, shooting pool, golfing, bowling, carpentry, and spending time with his family. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.

A memorial service honoring the life of Carl J. Braud Jr. will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at 6322 Third Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71302.

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Pineville, LA – On the first day to prefile legislation for the 2026 Regular Session, Speaker Pro Temp Mike Johnson (District 27) filed three bills addressing carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), fulfilling a commitment he made to constituents and local leaders.

One bill, titled the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act, protects private property by prohibiting the use of eminent domain by private entities for carbon capture projects and CO pipelines. The bill ensures that land for these projects may only be acquired through voluntary agreements with landowners.

The remaining two bills focus on local decision-making. One grants the governing authority of Rapides Parish clear authority to determine whether CCS projects may be permitted within the parish. The second establishes a statewide local option, allowing parish governing authorities-and, when called, the voters themselves—to decide whether CCS projects are allowed in their communities.

“These bills are about fairness, property rights, and respect for local voices,” Johnson said. “No private company should have the power to force a family off their land, and no community should be sidelined when decisions directly affect their parish.”

Johnson emphasized that the legislation is not intended to block economic development, but to ensure it proceeds in a responsible and transparent manner.

“These bills are not anti-industry,” Johnson said. “They are pro-property rights, pro- local government, and pro-Louisiana families. Economic development should be built on voluntary agreements-not forced land seizures-and local communities deserve a seat at the table.”
Johnson stated that he expects broad support in the Legislature and expressed appreciation for colleagues who have agreed to join him as coauthors at his request, including Representatives Gabe Firment, Jason DeWitt, Rhonda Butler, Rodney Schamerhorn, and Chuck Owen.

“I filed these bills because I listened to the people I represent, and I take their concerns seriously,” Johnson said. “I will do everything in my power to see these bills pass and become law, because protecting private property and respecting local decision-making are core Louisiana values.”

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Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Park in Pineville is scheduled to receive rainbow trout on Jan. 27 as part of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ annual winter trout stocking program.

The trout stocking is part of LDWF’s Get Out & Fish initiative, which brings rainbow trout to designated public fishing locations across the state for a limited time each winter. The program is weather dependent, and officials have indicated updates will be provided as stockings are completed.

The Pineville park is among several Central and North Louisiana locations included in the late January stocking schedule.

Anglers are reminded to follow all state fishing regulations and licensing requirements when fishing at state parks and public waters.

If you want these shortened, expanded, or rewritten to fit a specific outlet’s house style (or combined into a brief), just say the word.

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Robert A. “Bob” Marler, age 79, of Woodworth, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, comforted by his wife and daughter. Visitation for Bob will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Gallagher Funeral Home, with funeral services to follow at 10:00 a.m., officiated by his great-nephew, Eric Marler.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William “Bill” and Mamie Inez Woodham Marler; his brother, J.C. Marler; and his sisters, Annie Lee, Imogene, Joyce, and Billy. He is survived by his wife of nearly 57 years, Elizabeth Elize Clark Marler; his children, Terresa Dipuma (Michael) and Brad Marler; and his beloved grandchildren, Luciana, Francesca, and Geneva Dipuma; Adelie and Brylee Marler; and John and Isabelle Marler.

Bob spent his career working in commercial refrigeration, eventually founding Marler Refrigeration alongside his wife, Elize. He enjoyed fishing and hunting-passions he proudly passed on to his children.

Bob was committed to his community, serving as an alderman of Woodworth and as Past Master of the Forest Hill Masonic Lodge No. 254. A hardworking, honest, and caring man, Bob cherished his family and friendships above all else. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

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Ronald Dale Mundy, age 76, passed away on January 10, 2026. He was born on September 8, 1949, to William Clyde Mundy and Dorothy Janell “Nell” Pruitt Mundy.

No services are scheduled at this time.

Ronald proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, a commitment that reflected his strong sense of duty and discipline. Throughout his life, he found great joy in the outdoors. He loved deer hunting, fishing on Little River and at Hard Water Lake, and taking trips to Tennessee to visit friends. Ronald also took immense pride in his home, keeping it in pristine condition and spending countless hours working in his yard on his tractor and lawnmower.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jeril Mundy.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughters, Christy (Gerald) Martin and Ashley Collins; his grandchildren, Lakyn (Adam) Bordelon and Joshua Terrell; and his great-grandchildren, Ainsley, Eli, Berklee, and Tayte. He is also survived by Robert Carrington and family.

Ronald will be remembered for his work ethic, love of the outdoors, devotion to family, and the pride he took in everything he did. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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The Pineville City Council appointed John Marcase as Interim Councilman for District 4 during its January 2026 meeting, following the retirement of longtime council member Tom Bouchie.

Marcase currently serves as the public relations and marketing coordinator for Rapides Regional Medical Center. He previously worked as an award-winning sports editor and assistant managing editor at The Town Talk, bringing decades of local media and communications experience to the role.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in management and marketing from Louisiana College. Marcase also serves as president of the Louisiana Sports Writers Association and is a board member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation.

A lifelong Pineville resident, Marcase has deep ties to the community through its schools, churches, and local businesses. He is also a longtime coach for Pineville Junior High and Ward 9 sports programs.

Marcase will serve as interim councilman for District 4 until a permanent replacement is selected.

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury has scheduled a series of regular committee meetings for Monday, Feb. 2, beginning at 3 p.m. The meetings will be held in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office.

Committees will meet in the following order: Finance Committee; Public Works, Watershed and Agricultural Affairs Committee; Workforce Development and Grants Committee; Tourism and Economic Planning and Development Committee; Courthouse, Coliseum and Legal Committee; Parochial Board Liaison and Municipal Liaison Committee; Personnel, Elections and Health Committee; and Insurance, Ambulance, Fire and Homeland Security Committee.

The agenda for the committee meetings will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, on the Meeting Room door.

In addition to the committee meetings, the Rapides Parish Police Jury will hold a regular meeting at 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Police Jury Office, located at 701 Murray Street in Alexandria. The agenda for the regular meeting will be posted at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, on the Meeting Room door.

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

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The Rapides Parish Republican Women welcomed Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jay McCallum as the featured guest at the organization’s January meeting, marking the first speaker event of its 2026 lineup.

Justice McCallum addressed members and guests during the meeting, delivering remarks that blended legal insight with humor and personal perspective. Attendees described the discussion as engaging and approachable, setting an energetic tone for the group’s programming in the new year.

The January meeting continued the organization’s tradition of hosting elected officials and public servants to discuss issues of interest to local residents while fostering civic engagement within the community.

The Rapides Parish Republican Women meet on the second Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Hotel Bentley. Meetings are open to guests, and new members are welcome to attend.

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