There’s no place quite like Ruston, LA for the holidays. With beautifully decorated downtown shops, streets lined with twinkling lights, and holiday cheer in the air, Ruston produces all those cozy feelings of being home for the holidays.

Ruston and Lincoln Parish offer a holiday season full of festive fun, making it the perfect time to make the drive and celebrate the holidays with your friends and family. From parades and performances to light displays and shopping events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.

Thursday, November 20, kick start the holiday season in the heart of Ruston. Holiday Open House & Kickoff to Christmas invites you to shop and stroll downtown’s special promotions, get your pictures with Santa, and see the downtown tree lighting.
While you’re around for Kickoff to Christmas, stroll Ruston’s quarterly Art Ramble happening 5:30pm-8:30pm. Local artists will be displaying and selling artwork and curated creations, perfect for finding your loved ones that one-of-a kind gift.

Thursday, December 4, Ruston’s Annual Christmas Parade will hit the streets. This parade fills Ruston with festive floats and plenty of Christmas cheer. Bring your blanket, grab a warm drink from a local coffee shop, and enjoy one of the merriest events of the season.

December 4-7, experience the timeless story of A Christmas Carol brought to life at the Dixie Center for the Arts. Ruston Community Theatre brings you Ebnezer Scrooge, the three Spirits of Christmas, and musical adaptations by Alan Menken and lyrics by Lynee Ahres.

Lincoln Lights Up the Pines is a Ruston holiday staple and a can’t miss event. Pack up the whole family and come experience Ruston’s only drive-thru Christmas light display at the beautiful Lincoln Parish Park happening December 4-6 and 11-13. Enjoy twinkling lights, holiday scenes, and festive decor all from the warmth of your vehicle as you take in the glow of the season.

December 5-7 is a big weekend in Ruston, LA and full of holiday adventures. You can shop Big Creek Trade Days on December 5-7, where you’ll find handmade jewelry, accessories, furniture, antiques, outdoor items, and more to help you knock out your holiday shopping list. December 6, visit the OWL Center for their Christmas on the Farm. This holiday event brings you pony rides, a petting zoo, a bouncy house, crafts, pictures with Santa, rock wall, zip line, games, and so much more. Also on December 6, you can visit downtown Choudrant for Christmas in the Village featuring a parade, bounce houses, cookies with Santa, a movie in the park, and more.

On December 12, the Dixie Center for the Arts presents A Christmas Blues. This benefit concert is full of holiday spirit and down-home blues bringing together some of the area’s most gifted musicians for an unforgettable night of music.

Downtown Ruston hosts the Christmas Cookie Crawl on December 14. Satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season and sign up to get a delicious holiday cookie at each participating local business all while you shop the local, holiday deals and specials. While you’re in town, step into the holiday spirit with Holiday Tour of Homes, sponsored by Pine Hills Children’s Advocacy Center happening December 14. Tour beautifully decorated homes and gather festive inspiration for your own holiday decor.

Ruston has it all – late night shopping, downtown deals, cookie crawls, parades, live music, light displays, and of course, the annual holiday5K race. On December 18 the Ruston Rudolph 5k Race will take place at the Ruston Sports Complex. Grab your holiday running gear, strap on your Santa Claus hat, and get ready for the most festive race of the year.

End the holiday season on a high note. The Ruston Sports Complex brings you Christmas at the Complex on December 20. Spend a festive day with friends and family and enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, take your picture with Santa, watch a Christmas movie, and go ice skating.

This is just a quick look at the holiday adventures you can go on this year in Ruston, LA. Recurring events throughout December include artificial ice skating at the Ruston Sports Complex and the Ruston Farmers Market happening every Saturday – perfect for finding your holiday gifts and festive flavors all while enjoying some live music.

Come experience the holidays in Ruston, LA, where small town charm and big holiday spirit bring you back to those nostalgic feelings of Christmas when you were a kid.

To learn more about the holidays in Ruston, visit rustonlincoln.com/events/holidays/.

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Mr. Allan Leroy Hill, 73, of Tioga, entered eternal rest on Friday, November 14, 2025, at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished the time he spent with his family. A proud United States Navy veteran, he honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. He had a lifelong passion for driving and took great pride in his work behind the wheel, as well as in repairing and maintaining vehicles. In his spare time, he enjoyed attending car shows, collecting records, and building his collection of Harley-Davidson memorabilia. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Awilda Hill; and two brothers, John Hill and Robert Hill.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife, Janet Claire Hill of Tioga; one son, Sean Hill (Deidre) of Jena; one daughter, Sara Hill of Tioga; one sister, Nancy Easterly of Las Vegas, Nevada; and three grandchildren, Makenly Wilson, Hunter Wilson, and Bentley Wilson.

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Betty Sue Beavers, age 89, passed from this life to her eternal home on November 2, 2025. She lived most of her life in Norfork, Arkansas high on a beautiful mountain with her husband Scottye Beavers.
Betty enjoyed crafts, painting, and sewing in her younger days. She loved flea markets and had an eBay store for many years, which kept her busy. She is preceded in death by her parents, Dennis and Cleo Ivy; son, David Ferguson; husband, Scottye Beavers.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Debbie Johnson (Anthony), Dennis Ferguson (Mary), Billy Tucker, Donna McKinney (Randy), and Vincent Blackburn (Angie). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Patty Nabors Carey, Rebecca Nabors, Brandy Tucker, David Johnson (Michelle), Corey Tucker (Jennifer), Samantha Hill, Amanda Hill White (Ronnie), Kelly Tucker Lewis (Tommy), Matthew Ferguson, Joshua Ferguson, Daniel Ferguson, and Dakota Ferguson (Adriana); 11 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren.

As requested by Mrs. Beavers, her family will have a private memorial and burial at a later date.

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Following the Federal Aviation Administration’s lifting of U.S. government shutdown-related commercial flight restrictions, airports around the country are preparing for a record holiday travel season. Alexandria International Airport (AEX) issues important tips for a smoother holiday travel experience.

Holiday Air Travel Tips:

1. Book Strategically – Book flights with earlier departure times for statistically better on-time performance. Consider flying on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or New Year’s Day for potential cost savings and less crowded airports.

2. Check Flight Status – Visit your airline’s app or website and subscribe to their push notifications to receive real-time updates on flight status.

3. Arrive Early – Arrive at AEX 1.5-2 hours prior to your scheduled flight to allow sufficient time for parking, check-in, and security screening. Airline ticket counters stop accepting checked bags 45 minutes prior to departure at many airports, including AEX.

4. Account for En Route Delays – In the event of heavier-than-normal traffic, road construction, or inclement weather, allow for additional time traveling to the airport.

5. Pack Essentials – Pack necessary items, such as medications and device chargers, in your carry- on luggage in case of unexpected delays. Review the Transportation Security Administration’s “What Can I Bring?” webpage to facilitate the screening process.

6. Connect on Social Media – Follow the social media accounts of your airlines and England Airpark/AEX for additional updates on operations.

“While holiday travel can be stressful, there are several commonsense ways to optimize your experience, such as by planning ahead,” states Ralph Hennessy, Executive Director of England Airpark and Alexandria International Airport. “Packing wisely, following flight status updates from your airline, and accounting for potential disruptions can save time and provide peace of mind. AEX is fully prepared for the upcoming holiday travel season and looks forward to serving all our passengers.”

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The ribbon cutting for the new pickleball courts at the Ward 9 Sports Complex in Pineville was held recently, marking the completion of a joint cooperative endeavor between the City of Pineville and the Rapides Parish Police Jury.

The new courts expand recreational opportunities at the state-of-the-art complex and enhance the quality of life for residents in North Rapides Parish. Ward 9 board members and staff were joined by representatives from the police jury and the city to celebrate the addition.

Congratulations were extended to the Ward 9 Board and staff, the Rapides Parish Police Jury, and the City of Pineville for their collaboration on this latest improvement.

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Explore Alexandria/Pineville Marketing Coordinator Katelyn Coombs was recognized Friday with the 2025 Emerging Leader Award from the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce during the YPG of Cenla 4WARD Luncheon.

Coombs was honored for her contributions to advancing Central Louisiana and for the energy and commitment she brings to her role at Explore Alexandria/Pineville.

The organization celebrated the recognition and encouraged the community to join in congratulating Coombs on the achievement.

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Services for Travis Dee Floyd will be at 10AM, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora, LA, with Bro. Carl Head and Pastor Benji Rhame officiating. Visitation will be from 9AM until time of services in the Church.

Travis Dee Floyd, 65, of Forest Hill, LA, passed away November 15, 2025, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

Travis was a man of many talents; there was nothing he couldn’t attempt and accomplish. He loved hunting and laughing. He was a “God fearing” man and loved by many. He was a very loving husband, father, son, brother and uncle. A man who came to know God and loved Him and praised Him in all things. Travis loved to make people laugh and his sense of humor was contagious.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Waunee Floyd and brother, William Wayne Floyd.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Sharon Floyd, his daughter Heather and his son Taylor Floyd; his mother Paula Faye Kenney Floyd, sisters, Neita Head (Carl), Denise Head (Ken) and Ginger Jones (Henry); brothers, Marty Floyd (Barbara), Ernest Floyd (Theresa), Finus Floyd (Jamie) and Jeffery Floyd as well as countless nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Jimmy Neal, Jake Neal, Travis Gill, Marty Floyd, Henry Jones and Ernest Floyd. His honorary pallbearers are countless.

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Barbara Jean Delrie, 85 of Pineville, La passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on May 29, 1940, Barbara lived a life marked by kindness, resilience, and a deep love for her family and travel.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Gallagher Funeral Home at 12:00 pm with Mark Breeland officiating. The visitation for Barabara will be held at the funeral home on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 pm. Burial will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery after the services.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Blake Lindsay, Jake Delrie, Duke Goudeau, Austin Delrie, Luke Bardwell, and Steve Dauzart, II, and Daniel Carr. Honorary pallbearers are Jason Delrie, and Trevor Delrie.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Pat and Thelma Nugent; husband, Eugene Delrie; companion, James Deal; daughter, Theresa Lindsay; sister, Joanne Roshto; and brothers, Wes and Norman Nugent.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Debra Dauzart (Steve), Michael Delrie (Lisa), Jeffery Delrie, and Laura Goudeau (Danny); siblings, Patsy Conley (Terrell), Judy Roshto, Danny Nugent, and Raymond Nugent; grandchildren, Steve Dauzart, II, Russell Dauzart, Jenifer Few, Rebekah Dauzart, Barbara Dauzart, Brittney Quintana, Scott Lindsay, Rebecca Carr, JR Lindsay, Susan Delrie, Austin Delrie, Ryann Delrie, Jason Delrie, Lindsey Delrie, Andrea Delrie, Duke Goudeau, and Nikki Bardwell; twenty-nine great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

Throughout her life, Barbara was known by her children as caring and selfless. No matter what life brought, she put her children first. Some of their favorite memories of her include her stewed chicken simmering on the stovetop, serving friends and family a fresh pot of coffee under the Catalpa Tree, her fresh pies and contagious laugh. In her working years she excelled and dominated a career in the lab at Sabine Medical Center as a Lab Technician. She loved her years spent at SMC with her coworkers who were like family to her. This is where she met the love of her life, James Deal. They both enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family. Her grandchildren were what filled her cup. She loved making her famous fudge and gifting it to all 17 of them. Her door was always open to them. Whether you needed a hot meal, roof over your head, a place to laugh, sleep, cry or chat -she was always there.

In the later years of her life, she was accompanied by many women who would care for her. In that time, she developed an unbreakable friendship with her sweet Marilyn. Until her last moments she was by her side. The Delrie Family are immensely grateful for her love and time spent with their mother and grandmother during those years.

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First Baptist Church Pineville had a strong turnout for its F.I.R.S.T. Step New and Prospective Member class held at the home of Pastor Stewart and Rebecca. The gathering brought together 30 new or prospective members along with ministry staff and their families.

During the event, eight individuals officially joined the church. Three will become part of the Lecompte campus, while five will join the Pineville campus. Several additional attendees plan to join in the near future.

The F.I.R.S.T. Step class serves as an introduction to the church’s ministries and mission, offering newcomers an opportunity to learn more about the congregation and its campuses.

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The Rapides Parish Republican Women’s Club elected its new slate of officers during the organization’s meeting held last night. The incoming board will serve a two-year term beginning in January 2026.

The newly elected officers are:
• President: Charlotte Lyles
• Vice President: Sarvette Duplessis Talley
• Recording Secretary: Linda LaCour Bordelon
• Corresponding Secretary: Sylvia Coody
• Treasurer: Vickie G. Hart
• Webmaster: Lauren Downes

Founded in 1960, the club has been active in Rapides Parish for more than six decades. Members credited the outgoing officers for their service, noting their leadership and volunteer efforts in advancing the organization’s mission.

The club stated that the upcoming term will focus on continued growth, member engagement, and expanding its presence in the community, aligning with the goals of the Louisiana Federation of Republican Women to support informed and engaged conservative women across the state.

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Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Lecompte hosted a brunch for Rapides High School’s Homecoming Court! This is the fourth year this has happened.
Rapides High School teachers Alicia Monroe, Stephanie Andries, and Lauren Wilson sponsored Homecoming activities.

The Homecoming Court and their mothers attended the event. They were so polite and their manners were exceptional.

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Funeral services for Mr. Clyde Earl Kelley will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with the Reverends Billy Edwards and Travis Sanders officiating. Interment will follow in St. Rose Cemetery, Aloha, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA.

Mr. Kelley, 80, of Colfax, entered eternal rest on Thursday, November 14, 2025, at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana, leaving behind a legacy built with his hands, his heart, and a lifetime of stories worth retelling.

Born with a natural talent for fixing anything that needed fixing, he spent his early years working as a mechanic before building a proud career as a roofer and carpenter. Whether repairing an engine, raising a roof, or crafting something from nothing, he brought determination, skill, and a stubborn dedication to doing things the right way-his way.

When he wasn’t working with tools, he was working the soil. He loved planting and tending his garden, which reliably grew far more than he ever needed. He shared the overflowing harvest with family, friends, and anyone in the community who could use a little fresh produce. His green thumb was matched only by the joy he found in watching things grow.

He loved being outdoors-fishing, hunting, gardening, or keeping his lawn in perfect condition. Whatever the season, you could count on him to be outside, soaking in the fresh air and taking pride in the work his hands could accomplish.

An exceptional cook, he was known for the Sunday dinners he prepared for his family-meals made with care, skill, and the quiet satisfaction of feeding the people he loved. He was generous and loving, yet strong-willed and wonderfully set in his ways, a man with “patience for everything except waiting.”

Above all, he loved being a father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and uncle. Though fiercely independent and perfectly content in his own space, he cherished every moment spent with his family, treasuring the laughter, the stories, and the simple joy of being together. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the family he adored and prayed for daily and the many lives he touched.

Mr. Kelley is preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Kelley; two sons, Randy Kelley and Scotty Kelley; his parents Clyde C. and Deddie Kelley; three brothers, Arnold Kelley, Dewey Kelley, and Michael Kelley; one sister, Rita Chevallier; and one grandson, Devin Kelley.

Those left to cherish his memory include one son, Toney Kelley of LaPlace; three daughters, Sherry Corley (Robert) of Franklin, Tennessee, Donna Sanders (Brian) of Joyce, and Cindy Maxwell (Clay) of Georgetown; two sisters, Darlene Antee (Johnny) of Colfax, and Judy Bishop (Ronnie) of Sallis, Mississippi; one sister-in-law, Janet Kelley of West Monroe; seventeen grandchildren; thirty great grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and his “adopted son,” Rick Marshall of Ball.
A time of visitation will be held in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. until time of service.

Pallbearers honored to serve are: Johnny Antee, Daniel Kelley, Jody Lavespere, Rick Marshall, Zane Deville, and Joshua Blazek.

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Mr. Hill, 73, of Tioga, entered eternal rest on Friday, November 14, 2025, at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished the time he spent with his family. A proud United States Navy veteran, he honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. He had a lifelong passion for driving and took great pride in his work behind the wheel, as well as in repairing and maintaining vehicles. In his spare time, he enjoyed attending car shows, collecting records, and building his collection of Harley-Davidson memorabilia. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Awilda Hill; and two brothers, John Hill and Robert Hill.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife, Janet Claire Hill of Tioga; one son, Sean Hill (Deidre) of Jena; one daughter, Sara Hill of Tioga; one sister, Nancy Easterly of Las Vegas, Nevada; and three grandchildren, Makenly Wilson, Hunter Wilson, and Bentley Wilson.

All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA.

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Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a five-year partnership to expand educational, research, and workforce development opportunities across Central Louisiana and beyond.

The agreement supports the Tribe’s long-standing mission to create pathways for economic growth and educational advancement for its more than 1,700 citizens nationwide, while furthering LSUA’s commitment to community-based collaboration and regional impact. The partnership will facilitate joint efforts to enhance access to research, workforce training, and continuing education opportunities for both traditional students and adult learners.

“Education has always been a cornerstone of our Tribe’s vision for progress, sovereignty, and innovation,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “Partnering with LSUA allows us to open more doors for our citizens and the community, ensuring that learning, leadership, and cultural pride go hand in hand.”

Under the MOU, LSUA and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe will collaborate on projects that support workforce readiness, cultural preservation, and leadership development. The agreement also includes initiatives to provide first-generation scholarships, expand educational access for tribal citizens, and promote academic partnerships between LSUA faculty, staff, and the Tribe.

“This MOU represents a powerful commitment to progress through partnership,” said LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil, Ph.D. “Together, LSUA and the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe will continue building educational pathways that empower individuals, strengthen our communities, and preserve Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage.”

The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe has a distinguished history of advancing education through partnerships with universities across the state. The Tribe also collaborates with the LSU System on research and repatriation efforts for artifacts and ancestral remains, underscoring its dedication to both academic progress and cultural stewardship.

This new partnership reinforces LSUA’s strategic mission to align higher education with community needs, economic opportunity, and social advancement. Through shared purpose and investment, both institutions aim to cultivate a stronger, more resilient future for Central Louisiana and for generations to come.

For more information on the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana can be found at tunicabiloxi.org.

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The Rapides Parish School Board recently hosted another session of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board at Pineville Junior High.

The meeting brought together student leaders from across the district to provide feedback on the Thrive component of the Louisiana Department of Education’s new accountability system. Board officials said the students’ perspectives and insights play a key role in shaping district initiatives and policies.

Pineville Junior High staff were recognized for their hospitality, including providing breakfast for the attendees. The district expressed appreciation for the students’ continued involvement and contributions.

The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board meets regularly to ensure student voices are included in district decision-making.

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Several weeks ago, Agents with the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit began receiving multiple anonymous tips in reference to a subject identified as McKenzy Celestine allegedly receiving out of state packages delivered to his apartment or his neighbor’s apartment, that allegedly contained illegal narcotics for distribution. RADE Agents were able to confirm these complaints through a variety of surveillance techniques and investigative means, and shortly after, a narcotic search warrant was obtained for Celestine’s residence at 1103 Cedar Court off of England Drive, in Alexandria, LA.

On November 7th, 2025, RADE Agents observed a multinational shipping and logistics company deliver a package to 1105 Cedar Court. RADE Agents observed Celestine leave his apartment, retrieve the package from the neighbor’s door step, and bring the package into his apartment. A team assigned to serve the search warrant immediately made contact with Celestine and then cleared the apartment for other individuals. A lone juvenile female was also found to be inside the apartment.

A search was conducted of the apartment and the package that was just delivered was located open in Celestine’s presence. Inside the package Agents located 10 pounds of high grade marijuana. Also located during the search was an additional 2 pounds of marijuana, 4.2 ounces of Psilocybin Mushrooms, 7 pounds of THC Vape Pens, an AR style rifle, multiple items of paraphernalia including scales and a vacuum sealer, and over $9,000 in assorted U.S. currency were all located throughout Celestine’s apartment.

Celestine was placed under arrest and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center for two counts of Possession of CDS I (Marijuana and THC) with Intent to Distribute > than 2.5 pounds, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Illegal Carry of a Firearm with Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses. Celestine was issued a copy of a Civil Asset Forfeiture Form for the seized cash.

The juvenile was turned over to a family member. From their investigation, RADE Agents were also able to determine the neighbors were not be involved in Celestine’s alleged drug trafficking activities.

Celestine remains in jail at the time of this arrest being held on a $410,500 bond.

RADE Agents say their investigation is still ongoing and more arrests are possible.

The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit is a multi-jurisdictional team comprised of the Alexandria Police Department, Ball Police Department, Boyce Police Department, Cheneyville Police Department, Forest Hill Police Department, Glenmora Police Department, Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office Lecompte Police Department, McNary Police Department, Pineville Police Department, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Woodworth Police Department, Grant Parish District Attorney’s Office, Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office, Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole and the FBI SAFE STREETS TASK FORCE.

The RADE Unit continues to target individuals suspected of trafficking narcotics in the Central Louisiana area. If you have information or would like to report any narcotics activity, you may do so by sending direct messages to the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Facebook page.

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

Arrestee: McKenzy Celestine, 52
103 Cedar Court, Alexandria, LA

Charges: two counts of Possession of CDS I (Marijuana and THC) with Intent to Distribute > than 2.5 pounds
Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
Illegal Carry of a Firearm with Drugs
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses

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The City of Pineville is partnering with hometown native Cody Ford to spread generosity and community spirit this holiday season. Together, they will host a Thanksgiving Feast on Monday, Nov. 25 from 5-7 p.m. at the Pineville Main Street Community Center, located at 708 Main Street.

A total of 300 free dinner plates will be provided to attendees, offering local residents the opportunity to enjoy a warm meal and fellowship in celebration of Thanksgiving.

City officials encourage community members to share this information with anyone in need. Cody Ford expressed his deep appreciation for the outreach and support from the Pineville community in helping make this event possible.

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Carolyn was born on September 24, 1966 and passed away on November 7, 2025 at the age of 59

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Dexter James Coke, age 7, entered eternal rest on Sunday, November 9, 2025, in Pineville. The Visitation for Dexter will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Gallagher Funeral Home in Ball, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Bro. Wayne Romig officiating. Interment will follow in Belah Cemetery in Trout, LA, under the direction of Gallagher Funeral Home. He was preceded in death by his father, Dexter Savage. Those left to cherish his memory include his mother, Charlie Coke; grandmothers, Patricia Trapp, April Anglin, and Frances Glenn; great grandmother, Brenda Savage; aunts, Kaitlynn George, Angela Trapp, Lexus Prudhomme, and Kimberly Guyton; and many friends. Dexter was a bright, joyful boy whose smile could light up any room. He adored his Hot Wheels, toy trains, and all things with wheels or engines- from heavy equipment to the smallest toy truck. Dexter loved taking trips to Walmart and Ollie’s, where every aisle was an adventure waiting to happen. He never met a stranger and had a special way of making everyone feel like a friend. He saw the world through innocent eyes and made the most of it. Though his time with us was far too short, Dexter’s big heart and boundless energy will live on in the memories of all who were lucky enough to know him.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises the public that beginning Thursday, Nov. 13 there will be alternating lane and ramp closures on several entrance and exit ramps along a section of I-49 in Alexandria.

These nighttime ramp closures will take place on I-49 northbound and southbound between Exit 80 (US 71/US 167) and Exit 86 (US 71/US 165) from approximately 7 PM to 5 AM.

In addition, intermittent lane closures will be in effect during the daytime in both northbound and southbound directions on I-49 between Exits 80 and 86 from approximately 6 AM to 6 PM.

These lane/ramp closures are necessary as part of an ongoing project that includes the replacement of pavement markings (roadway striping) and other related work. All work is anticipated to be completed by December 2025, weather permitting.

Pavement markings are used to convey messages to roadway users. They indicate which part of the road to use, provide information about traffic regulations, passing zones, and enhance nighttime visibility.

Pavement markings provide continuous information to motorists related to roadway alignment, vehicle positioning, and other important driving-related tasks.

Permit/Detour section:

No detours are associated with this project.

Safety Reminder:

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

Additional Information:

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

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An arrest was made during the investigation into a shooting that occurred on Louise Street in Alexandria.

From their investigation, Sheriff’s Detectives were able to identify Antoine Latrel Raymond, 20 of Alexandria, as the suspect who allegedly fired shots at or near a vehicle that was driving in front of his residence. Three other individuals were detained but were later released.

According to victims and witnesses statements, the victims were physically accosted by Raymond and when another family member drove to the residence, that’s when Raymond allegedly fired the shots.

The RPSO Crime Scene Unit conducted their investigation and processed the scene where several .40 caliber shell casings were found. A handgun drum magazine was located in the residence that matched the caliber of casing found in the yard but no handgun was located.

Raymond was taken into custody without incident, placed under arrest and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on multiple charges, including simple battery, illegal use of weapons and aggravated assault with a firearm. Raymond remains in jail at the time of this release, being held on a $150,500 bond.

Sheriff’s Detectives say this is still an active, ongoing investigation. If anyone has any information about this crime, they are asked to contact Detective Tim Stanley, Criminal Investigations Division-Kolin Substation at 318-484-7350, RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

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

Arrestee: Antoine Latrel Raymond, 20
1323-B Louise Street, Alexandria, LA

Charges: simple battery
Illegal use of a weapon
Illegal discharge of a weapon
6 counts aggravate assault with a firearm

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A new Hampton by Hilton hotel is coming soon to Alexandria Mall Drive, according to the Developing Vernon, Beauregard, and Rapides Parishes social media account, bringing one of Hilton’s most recognized brands to the heart of the city’s shopping and business district.

The new hotel will be located near the Alexandria Mall, adding convenient lodging for travelers, shoppers, and business guests visiting Central Louisiana. While details such as the opening date and number of rooms have not yet been announced, the hotel is expected to feature Hampton’s signature amenities — including free hot breakfast, Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, business-friendly services and more!

Part of Hilton’s midscale portfolio, Hampton Inn is known for offering comfortable, reliable stays with modern rooms and friendly service. The addition of the new property reflects growing demand for quality accommodations in the area and is expected to contribute to local tourism and job growth.

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