The Rapides Parish Police Jury has announced that Hertz Road will close on Wednesday, Ag. 6, 8am to 5pm. This closure is temporary and for the purpose of a culvert installation.
Hertz Road to close on Wednesday, Aug. 6
Author: Megan Lowe
Celebrate National Farmers Market Week in Cenla
This week is National Farmers Market Week (August 3–9), and there’s no better time to support local.
Swing by the Pineville Farm Stand at 1634 Military Highway for farm-fresh produce and homemade goods.
Check out the Alexandria Farmers Market as well. This week, they are spotlighting Haille’s Hot Tamales, offering their delicious homemade hot tamales at the Market’s Happy Hour. Join them this Tuesday, Aug. 5, 5-6pm at 2727 Jackson St. for tasty bites and great company. Plus, every purchase from Hailey’s during Happy Hour gets a raffle ticket for a special drawing at the end of the market period.
Strengthened partnership to expand local food system work across Cenla, North LA
Shreveport Green and Louisiana Central today announced the official transfer of Louisiana Central’s Farm & Food Division to Shreveport Green, effective July 31. This strategic move deepens a longstanding partnership between the two organizations and enhances the capacity to build cleaner, greener, healthier ecosystems throughout Louisiana.
The Farm & Food Division, recognized nationally for its innovative programming and leadership, will now operate under the umbrella of Shreveport Green. The transition includes all staff and current initiatives, including management of the Alexandria Farmers Market, farmer training programs, and regional food systems development.
“This is an exciting and necessary next chapter for our team and for the continued development of environmental change within the food systems,” said Bahia Nightengale, Executive Director of the Farm & Food Division. “We’re honored to carry forward the work we’ve built with Louisiana Central and grateful to continue growing it with the creative leaders and doers at Shreveport Green. We’re excited about the future of this work in Central Louisiana and beyond.”
The Alexandria Farmers Market will continue to operate on the same schedule at its current location.
“The transition for customers and vendors will be seamless.” Nightengale said.
The transition reflects years of collaboration between the organizations, rooted in shared values and a common mission. It also ensures continuity for the communities served, with all programs continuing uninterrupted under the Shreveport Green umbrella.
Lauren L.J. Jones, Executive Director of Shreveport Green, remarked, “We’re thrilled to officially partner with the Farm & Food team! After years of collaboration through the Louisiana Small-Scale Agriculture Coalition, this transition is a natural next step. It strengthens our shared mission and creates a mutually beneficial relationship that will amplify the impact of the work we’re already doing. This partnership also allows more dollars to go directly into the North and Central Louisiana agriculture community – supporting farmers, green initiatives, and long-term sustainability across the region.”
Shreveport Green, known for creating North Louisiana’s largest urban farm and for co-leading a statewide coalition that has secured more than $13 million in funding for small farms, will now extend its reach into Central Louisiana. As a Keep America Beautiful affiliate, Shreveport Green prioritizes initiatives that make communities cleaner, greener, and healthier places to live.
Jim Clinton, President and CEO of Louisiana Central, said, “It has long been Louisiana Central’s strategy to pilot work that will take root and find a home that enhances the work’s regional impact. The combined impact of Shreveport Green and the Farm & Food team will significantly exceed the already impressive work of either alone.”
About Shreveport Green
Shreveport Green is a nonprofit organization working to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Louisiana through environmental stewardship and community-driven initiatives. From litter reduction and tree planting to habitat restoration and environmental education, the organization leads efforts that strengthen both people and place. As part of its mission, Shreveport Green also operates North Louisiana’s largest urban farm, integrating sustainable agriculture into its broader vision for healthy, resilient communities.
About Louisiana Central
Louisiana Central is a nonprofit organization providing economic development leadership and support for ten parishes in Central Louisiana.
Register now for the Safari Smash Pickleball Tournament at the Alex Zoo
Ready for a wildly good time? The Safari Smash Pickleball Tournament is calling all players ages 10 and up. Embrace the speed and agility of the jaguar as participants compete for bragging rights on Saturday, Oct. 4. Hosted by Friends of the Alexandria Zoo and City of Alexandria.
Registration is now pen online: https://thealexandriazoo.com/Pickleball.html
Oak Hill releases July call data, issues reminder of summer raffle
Oak Hill Fire Department has released its data relating to calls made between July 20 and July 26.
Medical – 2
Traffic Hazard – 1
This makes for a total of 3 calls for the reporting period and a total of 274 calls for the year so far.
The Oak Hill Fire Department wants to remind everyone not to forget Summer Raffle 2025. All of the firefighters and volunteers have tickets for this raffle. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. These are some of the firefighters that have tickets and would appreciate support: Travis Cutts, Blake Horton, Shawnta & Nick Bolinger, Amanda & Columbus Rhame, Melissa Rhame, Jordan Jones, Ryan Carr, Robert Carraway, and Nikki Carlock.
As a reminder, there are four prizes this year up for grabs. They are as follows.
- Oak Hill Fire Department T-shirt Blanket
- American Flag Crocheted Blanket
- $200 gift card to Sissy’s Restaurant
- 2 large pizzas and 1 2-liter drink from Leebo’s Hineston
BOM donation supports Pineville High School
BOM made a donation to the Pineville High School Red Hot Dixie Dancers. Pictured left to right: BOM’s Kristina Bagwell and Sarah Bell.
Save the date: Author of the Month Mike Wynne book signing at RPL Aug. 14
Mike Wynne will be doing a book signing at Westside Regional Library for his latest book, Haunted Central Louisiana, on Thursday, Aug. 14, 11am-12:30pm.
The public will have the opportunity to be the very first to obtain noted author Michael Wynne’s new book, Haunted Central Louisiana, the complete and true story of the ghosts and spirits who roam forever through Central Louisiana.
New Orleans doesn’t hold a monopoly on Louisiana’s haunted lore. Souls who brave the shadows along the bayous and byways of Central Louisiana will encounter a haunted heritage centuries in the making. From the legends swirling about Alexandria’s historic Hotel Bentley and the Old Pineville City Hall to an exploration of an abandoned speakeasy in downtown Alexandria, explore the spirted legacy of the Crossroads of Louisiana.
Contact 318-442-2483 for more information.
Notice of Death – August 3, 2025
Lisa Marie Pilgrim
October 26, 1972 – August 1, 2025
Service: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 11am at Tioga First Baptist Church, Pineville.
Opra Sanchez
October 18, 1944 – August 1, 2025
Service: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Alfred Lamar McBroom
December 4, 1935 – July 31, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 2pm at Faith Baptist Church, Tioga.
Karen Marie Taylor
July 27, 1939 – July 30, 2025
Service: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Herbert Lee Cole
February 9, 1948 – July 29, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Billy Ray Strother
December 18, 1931 – July 29, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Cecilia Jean Berlin Hotard
April 19, 1949 – July 27, 2025
Service: Monday August 4, 2025, 12pm at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.
Edward L. McGuire
June 7, 1937 – July 17, 2025
Service: Friday, August 8, 2025, 12pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.
The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)
Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!
Traffic Alert – US 165 & US 167 (Kingsville Interchange) outside travel lanes to close
Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 5, at 9am, the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) will close the outside travel lanes of US 165 (northbound and southbound) and all ramps at the US 167 interchange for road reconstruction.
Work is expected to wrap up by January 2026. The work is being done on Hwy 165 and various lanes will be closed during the entirety of the project.
A 12-ft width restriction will be in place between US 165 Business and US 71.
Allow extra travel time and stay alert in the area.
City of Alexandria issues reminder about storm drains
Ever wonder where stormwater goes? Storm drains in Alexandria lead directly to rivers and bayous — with no treatment or filtering. That’s why it’s so important to keep anything but rainwater out of the system.
When it comes to what goes in, the rule is simple: only rain down the drain.
Let’s work together to keep neighborhoods clean and waterways safe. Learn more about the City’s environmental services and how the public can make a difference: https://www.cityofalexandriala.com/environmental-services
Sayes Annual Youth Fishing Tournament to be held this Saturday
Sayes Office Supply will host its annual Youth Fishing Tournament this Saturday, Aug. 2, from safe daylight to 10:30am at Cotile Lake Park Landing.
The tournament will feature two age groups – 3-to-8-year-olds and 9-to-14-year-olds. There will be three fish classes: bass, bream, and white perch. The cost to enter is $10 per child.
The first 400 entries to the tournament will receive a free Zebco rod-and-reel. The Rapides High School Fishing Team will be on site to help contestants with tips and tricks.
Enter to win bicycles, door prizes, and a lifetime hunting license (must be present to win).
Hamburgers and drinks will be furnished to all contestants and parents/guardians.
RPL to host ‘For the Love of Food’ Monday
The Main Library of Rapides Parish Library will host its monthly cooking demonstration by a skilled local chef “For the Love of Food” on Monday, Aug. 4, 5:30-7:30pm.
This month the chef is Amarjit Pillarisetti from Lal Mirch School of Cooking. Participants will enjoy a fun and interactive session where they’ll learn new recipes, sample delicious dishes, and explore cookbooks from the RPL collection. This free event is open to all—come hungry and leave inspired.
Seating is limited. Registrations are required.
Contact 318-445-2411 for more information.
Alex Mall hosts 3rd Summer Mode on Saturday
Head to the Alexandria Mall this Saturday, Aug. 2, 1-3pm, for the third installment of Summer Mode to celebrate all things summer.
The mall will host family-friendly activities, games, crafts, festive atmosphere, and giveaways. The movie showing on the big screen will be “The Dog Who Saved Summer.”
PPD seeking the public’s assistance in identifying theft suspect
The Pineville Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a woman who committed a theft at a local business.
The individual was caught on security camera placing an item into her purse at a local convenience store.
If anyone recognizes her or has any information, please contact PPD; they can be reached via Facebook. As always, all tips can remain anonymous.
Let’s work together to keep local businesses thriving!
Notice of Death – July 31, 2025
Herbert Lee Cole
February 9, 1948 – July 29, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Billy Ray Strother
December 18, 1931 – July 29, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Bradley R. “Pops” Harmson
October 7, 1965 – July 28, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 11:30am at Big Island Baptist Church, Deville.
John Franklin Arledge, Jr.
October 24, 1947 – July 27, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 12:15pm at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Ball.
Cecilia Jean Berlin Hotard
April 19, 1949 – July 27, 2025
Service: Monday August 4, 2025, 12pm at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.
Betty Clair Wilmore
May 9, 1937 – July 27, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at St. Rita Catholic Church, Alexandria.
Bernard Stanley Petroskey
October 10, 1944 – July 26, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.
Doris Lane Brunett
September 8, 1933 – July 25, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 12pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.
Dr. Haywood Berkley Joiner, Jr.
October 12, 1946 – July 23, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.
Juan McNeal
June 11, 1970 – July 21, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.
The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)
Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!
Save the date: National Night Out at Alex Zoo on Sept. 30
Join the Alexandria Police Department for National Night Out on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at the Alexandria Zoo from 5–8pm.
A few familiar faces from APD will be there (the ones in the photo above), and they’re looking forward to spending the evening with the community.
Bring the family, enjoy some fun, and help APD build a stronger, safer community together.
Rapides Fair Queen’s Pageant, Princess Contest registration opens
It’s time to register for the annual Rapides Fair Queen’s Pageant and Princess Contest. The event takes place October 4 at 2pm at LSU-A Mulder Hall.
To enter the Fair Queen’s Pageant, participants must be a Rapides Parish resident, between the ages of 16 and 21, and unmarried. The deadline to enter is Sept. 22. The winner will receive a $500 scholarship to an institution of their choice. The 2024 Queen was Kyllie Tyler.
The Princess Contest identifies the young women who will assist the Fair Queen and present awards at Livestock Shows. The Princesses must be 9 to 15 years old. Attire is a natural look (no formal wear). The deadline to enter is Sept. 22. The 2024 Princesses were Maeve Asworth and Charlie Dunn.
For questions or information or to enter either the pageant or contest, text the contestant’s name, age, school, phone number, and email address to Sherri at 318-715-2237 OR Erika at 318-541-1617.
Visit the Fair site at www.RapidesParishFair.org.
Friends of the RPL book sale starts today
Stop by and see the Friends of the Rapides Parish Library today, July 31, through Saturday, Aug. 2, during open hours at the Main Library: 9am-6pm Thursday and Friday, and 9am-1pm on Saturday.
For $10, patrons can buy a tote bag and fill it with books.
BOM continues support of the Lauren Vaughn Memorial Foundation
BOM continued our support of the Lauren Vaughn Memorial Foundation. Each year the organization hosts a 5K to honor the memory of Lauren Vaughn. The memorial scholarship benefits the NSU Accelerated BS to BSN program. Pictured left to right: Bridget Vaughn and BOM’s Kristina Bagwell.
PPD’s ‘Wanted Wednesday’ suspect identified through public assistance
Next up on Wanted Wednesday is a familiar face to many, Lauren Ebert, a.k.a. Lauren Hayes. She has appeared before from a previous story where Pineville Police were trying to identify her.
Ms. Ebert recently visited a local business, not to shop, but to host her own unauthorized Supermarket Sweep Meat Cooler Edition. She helped herself to a generous portion of meat… multiple times.
Once identified, it was discovered that Ms. Ebert has not only racked up several prior theft convictions, but she’s also got about 15 active warrants across the state of Louisiana. It’s safe to say she’s a bit of a frequent flyer in the criminal justice system.
As always, Pineville Police encourage Ms. Ebert to turn herself in and get things sorted out. It’s never too late to make better choices.
Otherwise, anyone who knows Ms. Ebert’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Pineville Police Department – they can be reached via Facebook. All tips remain anonymous.
And remember, all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Cheneyville Back-to-School bash, supply giveaway this Saturday
Cheneyville reminds its residents that they are packed up and ready to help get the children prepared for a new school year. Along with backpacks and supplies, Cheneyville is giving away free haircuts, gift cards, and more prizes. Come by campus on Saturday starting at 12pm. Refreshments will be served.
Notice of Death – July 30, 2025
Billy Ray Strother
December 18, 1931 – July 29, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Bradley R. “Pops” Harmson
October 7, 1965 – July 28, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 11:30am at Big Island Baptist Church, Deville.
Betty Clair Wilmore
May 9, 1937 – July 27, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at St. Rita Catholic Church, Alexandria.
Bernard Stanley Petroskey
October 10, 1944 – July 26, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.
Patricia Pryor Gallagher
April 9, 1953 – July 23, 2025
Service: Thursday, July 31, 2025, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.
Dr. Haywood Berkley Joiner, Jr.
October 12, 1946 – July 23, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.
Juan McNeal
June 11, 1970 – July 21, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.
The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)
Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!