Rapides 911 and first responders from multiple agencies across Rapides Parish took part in the annual Procter & Gamble CAER Drill on November 21. The exercise allowed responders to train alongside private industry partners in a simulated emergency environment.

The drill focused on improving coordination and readiness for potential real-world hazardous materials incidents. Officials noted that the training helps ensure first responders are better prepared should a Hazmat situation occur in the community.

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A Memorial service to honor the life of Mr. Melbourne Douglas “Skipper” Crawford, Jr., will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at River Outreach Church, Pineville, with Pastor Dennis Dunn officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Skipper, age 81, of Pineville, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, on August 20, 1944, and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, with his loving wife by his side.

Skip grew up a farm boy in East Point, Louisiana, and graduated from Coushatta High School in 1962. He later attended McNeese State College in Monroe, Louisiana, where he was a proud member of the basketball team.

He honorably served twenty years in the United States Air Force. Following his military retirement, he worked as an office manager for Life of Georgia Insurance Company for several years. He then joined the Rapides Parish Police Jury, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2009. Never one to remain idle, Skip went on to work for Jimbo James, transporting U.S.P. vehicles across the state.

Skipper was an active member of River Outreach Church, where he found joy in transporting people from their cars to the church doors in his “anointed taxie” golf cart. He never met a stranger and loved sharing jokes and stories to bring laughter to those around him. His warm spirit and joyful humor touched countless lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melbourne and Kathleen Crawford.

He is survived by his loving wife of thirty-two years, Patricia Frazer Crawford; three children, Wade Crawford, Trinia Crawford, and Carrie Brashfield; three grandchildren, Taylor, Tucker, and Parker Crawford; and one sister, Donna Shield.

Friends may post online messages of condolences for the Crawford family by visiting http://www.rushfh.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melborne Skip Crawford, please visit our floral store.

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Funeral services for Betty W. Hurley will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in the chapel of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home of Alexandria with Chaplain William Tisdale officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until shortly before the time of services in the funeral home on Tuesday.

Betty W. Hurley, 88, of Alexandria, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, in Naomi Heights Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Alexandria.

Those left behind to cherish her memory include to her daughter, Lisha Williams (Kenny), and one son, Stephen Hurley, Sr. (Kim). Her family was her greatest treasure. She adored her grandchildren—Blaire Touchet (Michael), Lauren Herron (Marcus), Peyton Holman (Garett), Stephen Hurley, and Meagan Hurley (Ryan Francis, fiancé)—and took great joy in being a doting great-grandmother to Joshua Touchet, Jonathan Touchet, Ansley Touchet, Breanna Touchet, Logan Bridges, Chloe Hurley, Ty Herron, Aubree Hurley, Tuck Herron, Weston Hurley, and Maggie Hurley; siblings, Jimmy Williamson and Linda Thibodaux.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry D. Hurley; her parents, Hershel and Edvie Williamson, and one brother, Hershel Williamson.

Those who knew Betty will fondly remember her adventurous spirit and her love for a good time. Whether it was tending to her beautiful garden, filled with vibrant flowers, or enjoying a day out with her family, she embraced life with enthusiasm. Her beloved pets, including her late dog Colonel, filled her days with love and companionship.

The family would like to express special thanks to the staff at Naomi Heights for their excellent care, including Alaina Berlin and Shelly Sanders and to Compassionate Care Hospice for their attention and guidance during her final days, especially Allison Young, her caregiver.

Pallbearers will be Stephen Hurley, Marcus Herron, Jim Thibodaux, Garett Holman, Ryan Francis, and Glen Johnson.

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El Paso Mexican Grill is progressing along with its relocation plans in Alexandria, according to updates shared by the Developing Vernon, Beauregard, and Rapides Parishes social media account.

The restaurant, which closed its long-time MacArthur Drive location earlier this year, has begun construction at its new site off Versailles Boulevard. Recent activity at the property marks the official start of the project, signaling the next phase for the popular local eatery.

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Several thousand students from 46 public high schools, 2 private schools and a local homeschool association gathered at Alexandria’s Randolph Riverfront Convention Center to learn more about what educational and career opportunities await them at the Students Exploring Career Opportunities (SECO) event November 19 and 20. The event, in its tenth year, is sponsored by the Orchard Foundation, a subsidiary of the Rapides Foundation that is dedicated to educational improvement.

The students met with 77 community partners such as local colleges, CLTCC, local hospitals, CLECO, the cities of Pineville and Alexandria, local industry, the US Army and others. The students were able to learn more about a variety of career pathways and how to prepare themselves for life after high school. Events such as the SECO Career Information Fair give students a chance to learn and make informed choices when they choose a pathway to college or a career in high school.

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Agriculture is a $13 billion piece of the Louisiana economy. A new collaboration between LSU of Alexandria, the LSU AgCenter, and local Louisiana business Guardian Aerial is bringing precision agriculture to life, giving Louisiana farmers a new tool to add to their toolboxes. Precision agriculture utilizes technology, such as sensors or drones, to assist farmers.

“I originally served about 13 years in the military as a helicopter pilot and then separated from the military and started flying as an EMS pilot. I wanted to do something on the side. I found that there was a huge gap in the agriculture industry in Louisiana, and when it comes to drones,” said Clinton Giglio, CEO and Founder, Guardian Aerial.

That’s where sprayer drones come in.

“The sprayer drones are so new to the American farmer and here in Louisiana that we’re trying to do a lot of research really quickly to let them know what they’re going to get from a sprayer drone,” said Randy Price, LSU AgCenter associate professor.

Louisiana farmer Paul Van Mol is interested in learning more about sprayer drones.

“I’m a first-generation farmer, and I grew up in this area with my dad. Farming with a drone is another tool we can use for timing,” Van Mol said.

LSU of Alexandria is expanding its programs to enable students to become licensed remote pilots.

“We are starting the new agricultural program. We want to train students to work locally and be able to use drones and other technology to make farming more efficient, more cost-effective,” said Nathan Sammons, Dean of LSU of Alexandria’s College of STEM.

“This is a unique niche in our industry where we can incorporate new and emerging technology that the younger generations coming up are more fond of and familiar with into the agriculture industry,” Giglia said.

Jason Ingalls, a Guardian Aerial board member, said drones can help reduce costs and increase efficiency for the entire industry.

“We’re really excited about the opportunities that partnering with LSUA, as well as the LSU AgCenter and the entire LSU program, to deliver great drone service using Louisiana-sourced labor, and to enable students to transfer into a career path in a high-technology industry. That has a meaningful impact on a major industry in Louisiana agriculture,” Ingalls said.

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Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash on Nov. 22 around 1:18 pm on Messina Road at Kincaid Boat Road. This crash claimed the life of 64-year-old Wendell A. Lovette of Boyce.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2003 Subaru Baja, driven by Lovette, was traveling north on Messina Road. For reasons still under investigation, Lovette lost control of the vehicle, which caused it to leave the roadway and impact a tree.

Lovette, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving. A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.

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Funeral Services for Melvyn Douglas Bowie will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 24, 2025 in the chapel of Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville with Bro. Charles Hutzler officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until shortly before time of services in the funeral home on Monday.

Melvyn Douglas Bowie, beloved husband, father, pawpaw, and friend left this world at Rapides Regional Medical Center on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the age of 86 surrounded by family and friends. He was born on March 26, 1939 in Alexandria, Louisiana and lived a full life marked by his love of family, carpentry, and auto mechanics.

Melvyn was a Tioga High School Alumni class of ’57. He worked for 30 years Civil Service at Camp Beauregard. After retirement, he worked 10 years in auto parts where he met many friends. He was also a member of the Tioga Commissary Historical Society for many years.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John M. and Beatrice Bowie, son Tracy Bowie, sisters Gladys Derryberry and Anita Brasher.

He is survived by the love of his life of 63 years Ruth Bowie, his sons Doug (Karla), Michael (Jennifer), Arthur Foret (Christina), grandchildren Kelsie Briggs (Cody), Austin Bowie, Alexis Foret, David Foret, Eric Foret and numerous great-grandchildren.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Doug Bowie, Michael Bowie, Austin Bowie, Francis Harper, Ricky Bishop, and Robert Mayeaux (Shorty).

Honorary pallbearers are Charles Blackshear, Arthur Foret, and Ronnie Canoe.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Tioga High School Field House Building Fund, 1207 Tioga Road, Ball, LA 71405 or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting stjude.org/donate.

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Funeral services for Mr. James Paul Delrie, Jr. will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Steve Honeycutt officiating.

Interment will follow in Lone Pine Cemetery, Bentley, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Mr. Delrie, 36, of Pollock, entered eternal rest on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

He was a loving father, son, and brother. He loved video games and was an avid sports fan, able to recite stats on every team and player with ease. Known as the life of the party, he had a gift for making everyone he met feel special. His greatest joy in life was his children, whom he loved dearly. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, June Delrie; and his maternal grandparents, Daniel and Alberta Simms.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include four sons, Julius Delrie of Alexandria, Roman Delrie of Tioga, Carter Delrie of Tioga, and Luka Delrie of Tioga; two daughters, Trinity Delrie of Tioga, and Neveah Delrie of Tioga; his father, James Paul Delrie, Sr. (Anna) of Pollock; his mother, Leta Kay Hagins (Doug) of Alexander, Arkansas; two brothers, Brandon Delrie (Emily) of Pineville, and Kaden Delrie of Pollock; five stepsisters, Ashlynn Hooper (Nick) of Deville, Shaely Nugent (Gage) of Prospect, Kayley Slay (fiance’ Wesley) of Bently, Kylie Lasyone of Colfax, and Kinley Lasyone of Bentley; and his paternal grandfather, James S. Delrie, Jr. of Tioga.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

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Rapides Parish School Board announced a significant rise in district performance this week, reporting its highest score since the state’s current accountability system was put in place. The district’s overall performance score increased from 83 to 85.1, maintaining its status as a B-rated district.

According to district data, 71 percent of Rapides Parish schools increased their performance scores this year. Eight campuses improved by a full letter grade, while 25 schools were designated as “Top Gains” by the Louisiana Department of Education. Another seven schools earned recognition as “Opportunity Honorees.”

One of the most notable areas of progress was in the number of teachers rated “Highly Effective” under the state’s Value-Added Model. The district reported a jump from 60 to 173 in that category over the past year.

District officials said the gains reflect the ongoing commitment of educators, staff and families across Rapides Parish. Superintendent Jeff Powell noted during the district’s press conference that daily work in classrooms continues to drive student success.

The announcement was made during a luncheon hosted at Tioga Junior High School. The district also expressed appreciation to A+PEL for providing lunch for administrators and district leaders as part of the celebration.

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The Pineville Police Department welcomed its two newest team members, Officer Fruge and Officer Gorham, who recently graduated from the 97th Session of the Alexandria Regional Police Academy. Law enforcement is a calling that not many are willing to answer these days, and the PPD is proud that these two have chosen to serve and protect the Pineville community. 

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited a subject for alleged fishing violations on Nov. 13 in Rapides Parish.

Agents cited Jerald Tyler, 57, of Clifton, for possessing over the limit of crappie and fishing without a basic fishing license.

Agents received a complaint about a subject taking over the legal limit of crappie from Kincaid Lake. Agents responded to the scene and found Tyler fishing from the bank of Kincaid Lake.

Agents made contact with Tyler and found him in possession of 102 crappie without a basic fishing license. The legal limit for crappie for this lake is 50 crappie per day per licensed fisherman.

Agents seized the crappie and donated them to a local charity.

Taking over the limit of crappie brings up to a $350 fine. Fishing without a basic fishing license brings up to a $50 fine.

Tyler will also be assessed with civil restitution totaling $612 for the illegally taken crappie.

Agents involved in this case are Lt. Chad Watts and Senior Agent Dustin Barton.

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Funeral services for Mr. Charles Adrian Coleman will be held at 12:00 noon on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Big Creek Baptist Church, Pollock, with Reverend David Guillot officiating. Interment will follow in Big Creek Cemetery, Pollock, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Coleman, 84, of Pollock, entered eternal rest on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Northwest LA War Veterans Home, Bossier City, LA.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather whose love for his family was evident in all he did. A proud veteran of both the United States Navy and the United States Air Force, he served his country with honor. Over the years he worked as a dedicated truck driver and skilled mechanic. He found joy in playing the guitar and singing, and he loved motorcycles and firearms. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Ray Coleman; one son, Kelvin Coleman; his parents, Charles and Donnie Coleman; and one sister, Ruby Bynog.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include one son, Charlie Coleman (Julie) of Pollock; one daughter, Michelle Nicholson (John) of Elm Grove; five grandsons, Steven Bailey, Austin Wingerd, Brandon Coleman, Dustin Coleman, and Justin Coleman; three granddaughters, Sharley Barrow (Andrew), Shelby Bryan (Stephen), and Ashley Legg (Trevor); and thirteen great grandchildren.

A time of visitation will be held at Big Creek Baptist Church, Pollock, on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Steven Bailey, Peyton Bailey, Jayden Meadows, Andrew Barrow, Stephen Bryan, and Wesley Coleman. Honorary pallbearers will be Chandler Barrow, Coonie Coleman, Dennis Alston, Tim Montgomery, and Justin Meredith

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Anita Foster for her friendship and kindness.

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December 31, 1962 – November 17, 2025

Funeral services celebrating the life of Scott Curry will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, November 21, 2025 at New Hope Baptist Church, Calcasieu, La., with the Rev. Gordon Horton officiating. Interment will follow in New Hope Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until time of services in the church.

Mr. Curry, age 62 of Pineville, entered eternal rest on Monday, November 17, 2025 in his residence.

Scott was a graduate of Pineville High School. He was a retired warehouse manager for Schwanns in Alexandria. In his leisure he loved planting vegetable gardens, doing yard work, playing poker on his computer and fishing.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Linda Curry and two brothers, Steven Curry and Bruce Curry.

Scott is survived by his two daughters, Megan Curry (Katlyn) and Emily Curry (Dakota) both of Harvest, Alabama, his son, Johnathan Curry (Jessica) of Pineville, two brothers, Stuart Curry (Susan) of Pineville and Todd Curry (Teresa) of Deville. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Aiden Curry, Deklin Curry and Ariana Curry and his former wife, Donna Bass of Harvest, Alabama.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be; Johnathan Curry, Megan Curry, Stuart Curry, Bradley Brooks, Cody Frazier, T.J. Curry, Louis Smith and Jason Brooks.

Irish Blessing:

May the road rise to meet you, May the wind be always at your back, May the sun shine warm upon your face, And rains fall soft upon your fields, And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

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

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A social media post praising the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office inmate work program gained attention this week after a local resident publicly commended Sheriff Mark Wood and the individuals participating in roadside cleanup efforts.

The resident expressed strong support for offender work programs that hold individuals accountable while contributing meaningful work to the community. The discussion drew a response from the Sheriff’s Office, which shared updated statistics on the progress of its road crews.

According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, the RPSO Road Crew collected 63,670 pounds of trash on parish roadways and 116,010 pounds of trash on state highways during the first six months of 2025. The effort covered more than 1,500 miles across Rapides Parish.

Sheriff’s officials said the inmate crews work hard to combat litter, but the problem remains persistent without cooperation from the public. Residents are urged not to discard garbage from vehicles and to properly secure loads when transporting waste. Deputies throughout the parish issue citations when violations are observed or when discarded items can be traced back to their owners.

“It’s a dirty job but somebody has to do it,” the Sheriff’s Office said in its statement, thanking the community member for recognizing the program’s work and reminding drivers to “think about it and DON’T LITTER.”

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The Woodworth and Bodcau shooting ranges will be closed Nov. 27 and Nov. 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. Both ranges will be back open Nov. 29-30 with normal hours.

The Woodworth shooting range is located at 661 Robinson Bridge Road in Woodworth. The Bodcau shooting range is located at 168 Ben Durden Road in Benton.

Information on all LDWF shooting ranges can be found https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/shooting-ranges.

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The Pineville Police Department joined students and agencies from across the region this week for the annual Students Exploring Career Opportunities (SECO) event at the Alexandria Riverfront Center.

The two-day expo introduces middle and high school students to a broad range of career paths through hands-on demonstrations, displays, and direct interaction with professionals in various fields.

Pineville officers met with students throughout the event, answering questions and offering an inside look at careers in law enforcement. Department representatives shared information about public service, training, and the responsibilities that come with wearing the uniform.

According to the department, participating in SECO allows officers to engage with young people, highlight pathways into law enforcement, and emphasize the values of integrity and respect that guide their work.

The event continues to serve as a key opportunity for students to explore interests, learn about community roles, and consider future career options.

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Jules Anthony LaCroix, 66, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away on November 13, 2025. Born on July 18, 1959, in Alexandria to Jules LaCroix and Grace Gremillion LaCroix, Jules lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, and deep love for his family.

Jules was a man of many passions. He found peace and joy on the water-kayaking and fishing across Louisiana’s quiet bayous and streams. His adventurous spirit led him to explore new places, often with a camera in hand. Photography and painting were more than hobbies for Jules; they were the ways he captured the world as he saw it-full of color, movement, and quiet beauty. He also loved performing and took great pride in acting in community plays, bringing laughter and storytelling to the town he cherished. Above all, his greatest joy was the time he spent with his beloved grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure.

Jules was preceded in death by his father Jules LaCroix and his brother, Travis LaCroix.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Spencer (Stephanie) LaCroix of Colfax, Louisiana; Paige Thibodeaux of Lafayette, Louisiana; and Emily (Jeremiah) Dauch of Virginia. His Mother Grace Gremillion Lacroix. He is also survived by his sister, Cynthia (Bobby) Sandoval of Poland, Louisiana, and his precious grandchildren: Logan Dauch, Kayden Dauch, Avilyn Jules Thibodeaux, Ian LaCroix, Zade Thibodeaux, Liam LaCroix, and Urijah Dauch.

Jules’ legacy lives on in the creativity he shared, the adventures he pursued, and the unwavering love he poured into his family. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

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It is with both profound sorrow and enduring love that we share the passing of Johnny Ray Williams II, born on March 27th, 1966, in Pineville, Louisiana, and departed from us on November 12th, 2025.

Johnny Ray was the loving son of the late Johnny Williams Sr. and Katherine Williams.

As we remember Johnny Ray, we are reminded of the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Johnny Ray made every person he met feel unique, valued, and loved, and for that, he will be forever remembered.

Public viewing and visitation will be held at The Citadel Church Alexandria, 2111 Houston Street, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71301, on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, starting at 9:00 am. The funeral service will commence at the same venue at 11:00 am, followed by the burial at Garden of Memories, 2733 Eddie Williams Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71302, at 1:00 pm.

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Plastipak Packaging Inc. has announced a $53.8 million expansion of its Pineville manufacturing facility in Rapides Parish, a project that will add 200,000 square feet of warehouse space, up to five new production lines, and streamline operations across the plant.

The expansion is expected to create 15 direct new jobs while retaining 340 current positions. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will generate an additional 25 indirect jobs, bringing the total potential new positions in the Central Region to 40.

“Plastipak’s investment reflects the kind of growth Louisiana’s 9×90 Plan is designed to deliver,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “By expanding production capacity and adding warehouse space, the company is strengthening Central Louisiana’s manufacturing base and creating new opportunities for local workers. Modernizing core industries like manufacturing is how we build stronger, more competitive regions across Louisiana.”

The warehouse expansion will provide additional space for raw materials and finished products. New production lines will include conveyor and compression systems, molds, and labeling and printing systems. Upgrades to existing lines will increase the use of recycled plastic, enhancing both efficiency and sustainability.

“Since Plastipak began construction of its Pineville plant in 2003, our team has been extremely impressed with and appreciative of the collaboration and support from local and state officials and local organizations,” said Plastipak Holdings President and CEO Ed Morgan. “The long-term support and business-friendly environment in Louisiana has allowed Plastipak to expand the facility several times over the past 20-plus years, and allows us to announce the current investment. We look forward to increasing our manufacturing and recycling capabilities in Pineville and supporting our customers in Louisiana.”

The announcement coincides with the Central Region leg of LED’s Driving Louisiana Opportunity tour, which highlights employers like Plastipak that have strengthened communities and fueled economic growth across the state for decades.

Plastipak last expanded its Pineville facility in 2017 with a $15 million investment. The current expansion is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026.

“We are pleased that Plastipak continues to expand its operations right here in Rapides Parish,” said Rapides Parish Police Jury President Craig Smith. “This announcement means more opportunity for our people, and we are grateful for Plastipak’s confidence in our parish and our workforce.”

To secure the project, Louisiana offered Plastipak a competitive incentives package, including LED FastStart workforce development solutions and participation in the state’s Retention and Modernization Program, as well as the Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.

“Plastipak’s decision to reinvest in its Rapides Parish facility is a strong vote of confidence in our region’s workforce and business climate,” said Louisiana Central President & CEO Chris Masingill. “Their continued growth here reinforces the message that Central Louisiana is a competitive and welcoming home for world-class manufacturers. We are proud to support Plastipak’s success and look forward to the opportunities this additional investment will bring to our region.”

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Several district attorneys from Rapides Parish attended the 2025 Fall Elected District Attorneys Conference to discuss key public safety and criminal justice issues. Representing Rapides Parish were Perry Nicosia, Charles Ballay, Brad Buerget, Phillip Terrell, Schuyer Marvin, and Charles Riddle.

The conference featured speakers including Colonel Robert P. Hodges, commander of the Louisiana State Police; Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill; and Guy Cormier of the Louisiana Police Jury Association. Discussions focused on upcoming legislative issues affecting criminal justice across the state.

Phillip Terrell emphasized the importance of the gathering, stating, “It is our common goal to protect our citizens from criminal conduct and protect victims of violent crimes.”

The conference provided an opportunity for district attorneys to collaborate on strategies and stay informed about policy changes affecting public safety in Louisiana.

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Gov. Jeff Landry announced on Nov. 18 that Louisiana is the first state in the country to receive federal approval of its final proposal to deploy $1.355 billion in Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding. The approval marks a major milestone for Louisiana’s GUMBO 2.0 program, moving the state closer to connecting every parish with reliable, high-speed internet. The plan also supports long-term growth in the workforce, education, healthcare, and innovation.

“This is a generational investment that places Louisiana at the forefront of America’s tech transformation. I would like to thank President Trump, Secretary Lutnick, and our congressional delegation for making this possible,” said Gov. Jeff Landry. “By focusing on efficiency and accountability, Louisiana is leading the way in deploying infrastructure, creating jobs, and preparing our country to win the future. I also want to thank Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director for ConnectLA, and his team for doing a great job and leading the way for broadband efforts in the country.”

“I commend Louisiana for being the first state to receive full approval of their BEAD Final Proposal, bringing the state even closer to universal connectivity,” said NTIA Administrator Arielle Roth. “The state broadband office’s efforts to rein in excessive costs, use diverse technologies, and collaborate effectively with the private sector demonstrate the Benefit of the Bargain reforms in action. We can’t wait to see shovels in the ground and every Louisianan finally connected.”

“With this approval, we can shift from planning to putting shovels in the ground in the next several weeks,” said Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director of ConnectLA. “This plan is built to help Louisiana families, schools, and small businesses stay connected, and we’re focused on making sure every dollar delivers real results for our communities. In the first 100 days of Governor Landry’s administration, he stressed to our office how critical it is that we solve the digital divide, and we are grateful for his leadership and continued support in making this happen. We are also grateful to Secretary Lutnick and his leadership team at Commerce and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration for quickly approving our plans.”

Louisiana’s approved proposal outlines a strategy to:

• Connect approximately 130,000 unserved and underserved locations across the state
• Partner with 14 internet service providers, with nearly 70% of awards going to Louisiana-based companies
• Support the creation of 8,000 to 10,000 new jobs and generate $2 billion to $3 billion in revenue for Louisiana businesses

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