Melba Ione Niemeyer
December 13, 1940 – October 5, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 12:30pm at Kramer Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Joyce Ann Butler
June 30, 1949 – October 4, 2026
Service: Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 12pm at Kramer Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Richard L. Clayton
August 20, 1940 – October 4, 2026
Service: Thursday, October 8, 2026, 10:30am at Woodworth Cemetery, Woodworth.

Derick Steven Cheek
February 24, 1966 – October 3, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 11am at Fellowship Chapel, Ball.

Carole Ann Cook Crooks
December 20, 1944 – October 3, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 10am at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Pineville.

Dolores Dean Morrison
November 20, 1929 – October 2, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 10am at St. Clair Baptist Church, Boyce.

Robert Louis Thomas
November 23, 1937 – October 2, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10am at New Scott Olly Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Terrell Paul Ducote, Jr.
April 27, 1981 – October 1, 2026
Service: Monday, October 12, 2026, 4pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Jasmine Tr’Nay Offord
February 21, 1988 – September 29, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Eulalia Edwards Carter
January 17, 1949 – September 28, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.

Robert Earl Price
? – September 28, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 12pm at First Evening Star Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Pamela Lee Hampton
September 29, 1956 – September 26, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 11am at Antioch Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Lottie Mae Newcomb
October 26, 1938 – September 19, 2026
Service: Thursday, October 8, 2026, 1pm at Bethel Cemetery, Deville.

Jacob Van Davis
July 14, 1979 – August 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 11am at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora.

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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From FB a decade ago, a timely, for me, reminder of how time slips away. It’s been that kind of week.

My head aches again this morning, the result of too much time spent with old acquaintances.

Suffice it to say there now no longer 99 beers on the wall.

Anyhow, after what has passed for dinner of late I went into the media room, otherwise known as the family room, put on the headphones and slipped a cd (yep still have those) into the player.

The disc was given to me a by a coworker who said I might like the mix a friend had done.

Before I could settle in good Ernie K-Doe was Te-Ta-Te-Ta-Ta-ing.

Then came Danny White, Smiley Lewis, Shirley & Lee, Irma Thomas, Huey Smith, Frogman Henry, Fats Domino and Joe Jones.

By the time I got to the fifth play of Little Liza Jane I was hearing the Rhythm Aces in one ear and Dick, Bob, Bobby, Teddy, Cade Larry, Brian, Otto, Chuck, Clay, Otto, John, Pickle, Leroy, Ronald, Donald, Charlotte, Susie, C.C., Jeanie, Jean, Joyce, Donna, Jackie, Phylis, Sue, Carole, Kat and others through the other side.

Who would have thought age 18 would be the last time I would see or talk to some of them?

But I could hear and see them clearly last night.

Today? It’s a bit foggy.

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I’ve been thinking about this idea for a few years, and I’ve talked about it with some people, but I’m going to throw it out there for the public to consider.

And I’ll say from the start I know this is preposterous idea, but a lot of great ideas that became real were initially preposterous. Like building a transcontinental railroad. Or the Brooklyn Bridge. Or the Superdome.

Alexandria should build a lighthouse.

OK, I know we’re not a port city, and we’re not located on a coastline. I’m talking about a faux lighthouse. We cannot call it an historic lighthouse, but we could – and should – use it as a connection to the Red River and Alexandria’s history rather than make it simply a decorative tower. As Father Chad Partain, an Alexandria historian, pointed out when I first discussed the idea with him, we could also tie it in with one of the original seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Lighthouse of Alexandria. This was a massive navigational tower built around 280 B.C. on the island of Pharos in Egypt. It guided sailors for more than 1,500 years but no longer stands, although some blocks and underwater ruins from the structure still exist.

This could be a beacon on the Red River, a new landmark that could be a tourist attraction and be a distinctive centerpiece of the riverfront. I admit artificial intelligence has helped with plenty of ideas about such a project. By the way, the lighthouse photo in the column header (AI produced) is just that, a faux lighthouse photo, not necessarily the one for us.

The City of Alexandria has talked of wanting to connect downtown more strongly to the Red River as part of its revitalization strategy, and Louisiana’s Office of Tourism describes the Red River as the focal point of Alexandria and Pineville with festival grounds and the amphitheater beside the river.

I’ll leave it to the Red River, Atchafalaya and Bayou Bouef Districts to guide, with their easement requirements, the way for engineers to build the structure in an approved zone.

But dream away. This lighthouse will be a civic landmark and observation tower. It should then be taller than, say, the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse (43 feet) or the Biloxi Lighthouse (65 feet), which are primarily used for navigational purposes. The ideal height might approach 85-90 feet. At that height it would rise substantially above the levee and surrounding park and be visible from downtown streets and for those approaching downtown. It would also be highly visible from the Pineville side of the river and give Alexandria a recognizable skyline feature.

You think seeing the tall tree by the South Circle lit up in Christmas lights in past years was a warm-and-fuzzy sight, this would magnify that feeling a hundredfold.

At roughly 90 feet, it would also be a modest enough size to not be an overpowering, overpriced skyscraper.

Let’s figure on an observation deck at the top with views of the river and downtown Alexandria and Pineville, as well as a lantern room with a rotating beacon visible at night. There could be a small Alexandria/Red River maritime museum and perhaps interactive demonstrations, fanciful optics and/or an instructional video of how lighthouse beams work. Throw in a Louisiana-themed gift shop and a small café.

Other possible exhibits inside could be historic photographs and maps.

Sure, it’ll cost a bunch (one AI estimate is $8.5 million) to make it happen, with money coming from a variety of sources, from the city, RRWC, Louisiana Capital Outlay, to federal grants, private/philanthropic funding to corporate sponsorships, naming rights and endowments. And the annual operating budget might run $450-$650 thousand a year. But this tower should generate revenue.

The goal is for this to be a big attraction. But even if, in the first year or so, it attracts just a third or half of the minimum 120 thousand visitors that annually go to the Alexandria Zoo, it could generate $400,000 annually, according to AI figures. That’s with tickets costing $8 for adults, $5 for kids, $6 for seniors and $25 for family memberships. Also factor in revenue from the gift shop, private and corporate events, weddings, sponsorships, naming opportunities and memberships.

We can thank those that came before us for improvements that have come in the last 30-plus years. The Red River for so long was just partially navigable by steamboat starting in 1814 (when the first steamboat, the Enterprise, reached the city), but year-round commercial navigation was fully achieved in 1994 after the completion of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Red River Waterway locks and dam project.

And, of course, one of the great Alexandria success stories is the development of the Alexandria International Airport in 1996. This came after local leaders created the England Economic and Industrial Development District to reuse the closed England Air Force Base.

It’s time for us to step up and write a remarkable chapter in Alexandria’s history.

Building a lighthouse in Alexandria. Preposterous?

No doubt.

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Pineville Beauty School was recently recognized as a recipient of the Pineville Downtown Development District’s Facade Decorative Light Grant.

The school installed three decorative lights outside its Main Street building, adding a fresh and welcoming touch to one of Downtown Pineville’s longtime landmarks.

Pineville Beauty School was founded in 1967 by Charles McTire to serve the greater Alexandria area and has grown into an accredited institution serving students from across the region.

Today, the school offers programs in cosmetology, manicuring, teacher training and shampoo technology, preparing students for careers in the beauty industry.

The school has nearly 60 years of history on Main Street.

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DHS Secretary Observes Deportation Flight Out of Alexandria
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on Monday observed a deportation flight departing Alexandria, Louisiana, that removed 100 Salvadoran nationals to El Salvador. The flight was part of the Trump administration’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations.

The DHS release highlighted five individuals aboard with serious criminal histories, including convictions for homicide, first-degree manslaughter, child sexual abuse, assault on a law enforcement officer, and multiple DUI offenses.

“Mass deportations save lives,” Mullin said in the release.

Mayor Roy Invites Public to Charles Smith Park Ribbon Cutting Thursday
City of Alexandria

Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy is inviting residents to a ribbon cutting and grand re-opening of the Charles Smith Park Playground at 10 a.m. Thursday, October 8, at 2820 Harris Street in the Sonia Quarters neighborhood of southwest Alexandria.

The renovations, part of the city’s REIGNITE capital improvements program, replaced an aging playground with new age-specific play structures for children 2–5 and 5–12, featuring the themed Sprig® and Tree Tops® environments. The project also added a 16-by-16-foot SkyWays® shade canopy, new sidewalks, improved park access, drainage upgrades, new site furnishings, and landscape improvements. The existing basketball court was preserved.

REIGNITE is the City of Alexandria’s program to accelerate public infrastructure investment across the metropolitan area, combining projects of scale in strategic corridors to attract private-sector investment and improve quality of life.

Louisiana Christian Holds Inaugural Presidential Gala
Louisiana Christian University

Louisiana Christian University held its first-ever Presidential Gala Thursday evening at the Alexandria Convention Center, drawing more than 300 guests to an event honoring the school’s 120-year history and recognizing outstanding alumni and athletes.

Distinguished Alumni honorees included Alonzo “Buzz” Kelley of the Class of 1957, who received an honorary degree during the ceremony after spending his career building long-term care facilities in Central Louisiana; Tommy Bankston, also Class of 1957, who served as principal of Winnfield Senior High School and later superintendent of Winn Parish Schools before entering the nursing home industry; and Debbie Curtis Eutsler, Class of 1975, who has served for more than 40 years in education and currently serves as Lower School Principal at John Curtis Christian School in River Ridge.

The university also inducted two new members into its Sports Hall of Fame: former softball standout Savannah Settle Davis, a four-time First Team All-ASC selection from 2015–2018, and former women’s basketball coach Jason Tinsley, who compiled an 89–25 record and led the Wildcats to three ASC East Division Championships and three NCAA Division III Tournament appearances from 2010 to 2014.

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson used the occasion to launch the university’s five-year capital campaign — Restore, Rebuild and Reimagine — with a goal of raising $12 million. The campaign received an initial $1.2 million grant. Among the attendees were Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy, State Senator Jay Luneau, State Representative Mike Johnson, and Lance Maxwell, deputy chief of staff for Gov. Jeff Landry.

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Senior psychology major Mariel Medrano, of Cypress, has been crowned Louisiana Christian University’s 2026 Homecoming Queen.

“Being chosen as Homecoming Queen is such a special honor, and I’m incredibly grateful to my peers and everyone who supported me throughout this experience,” Medrano said. “It’s a moment I will always cherish and remember.”

Medrano said she was thankful to have shared this experience with her mother, Neela Rodriguez, who escorted her onto the field during the halftime ceremony.

She will graduate in May and plans to attend graduate school.

“I’m extremely excited for what the future holds and grateful for everyone who has encouraged me along the way,” Medrano said. “Go Wildcats!”

The 2026 Homecoming Court included:

Senior Maids

Journi Singleton, of Sulphur, a history major
Jeri Vige’, of DeQuincy, an applied biology and missions & ministries major

Junior Maids

Josie Manning, of Youngsville, a biological sciences major
Malee Stanley, of Dry Creek, a social work major

Sophomore Maids

Riley Nickens, of Baton Rouge, a missions & ministries major
Destanee Stewart, of Natchitoches, a business administration-management/marketing major

Freshman Maids

Terra Erickson, of Orange, Texas; a psychology-clinical concentration major
Makenzi Sampey, of Raceland, a biological sciences major

The LCU Wildcats won the Homecoming football game against East Texas Baptist University 50-36.

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The Northwestern State Louisiana Rodeo Team shared an update Oct. 3 on its recent rodeo competition.

Thursday night, Jett Kellogg rode his horse but missed his mark out, while Kyler Yeager started good but was caught by the eight-second rule.

Friday morning, in barrel racing, Alyssa Culpepper and Samantha Mcclure made smooth, clean runs but were not fast enough to make the top 10 short round. In breakaway roping, Samantha missed her calf.

Friday night, Darin Allen rode his saddle bronc horse and qualified in the top 10 for the short round.

Saturday morning, in breakaway roping, Allison Savant had a 3.0, Sage Martin had a 2.3 plus 10 seconds for a broken barrier, and Sydney Smith had a five-second run. The breakaway girls had a good showing, but 2.7 was the last place to make the short go.

In team roping, Allison Savant and Bradden Phillips captured their steer but received a five-second penalty for only one leg. Sydney Smith and her partner had the same result.

In the short go, Darin Allen started a good ride, but the eight-second rule got him.

The team thanked everyone for their support and for keeping up with the NSU Rodeo Team.

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LSU Alexandria and LSU Eunice have established three new 2+2 agreements designed to create clear pathways for students to move from associate degrees at LSUE into bachelor’s degree programs at LSUA in disaster preparedness and response, elementary education, and cybersecurity technology.

The agreements strengthen collaboration across the LSU System by aligning curricula between the two institutions so students can begin their education at LSUE, apply substantial portions of their associate degree toward an LSUA bachelor’s degree, and continue toward careers in fields important to Louisiana’s workforce.

For students, the partnerships are designed to make the path from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree more intentional. Rather than completing a two-year program and then determining which credits will apply toward another degree, students can begin with a defined academic pathway that identifies how their coursework fits into the bachelor’s program they ultimately hope to complete.

“These agreements are a strong example of what it means to build academic pathways around students and the communities we serve,” said LSUA Chancellor Elizabeth Beard, Ph.D. “By working across the LSU System, we can give students a clearer path from where they begin to where they want to go, while preparing graduates for careers in education, cybersecurity, and disaster response that are essential to Louisiana’s future. Higher education has a responsibility not only to respond to workforce needs, but to help build the strong, thriving communities we all want to call home.”

The disaster preparedness pathway allows graduates of LSUE’s Associate of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services to apply up to 57 credit hours toward LSUA’s Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Response. For firefighters, emergency responders, and others pursuing careers in emergency management, the agreement provides a clear path to build on their technical training with advanced study in planning, preparedness, response, and recovery while moving efficiently toward a bachelor’s degree.

The education pathway allows students who earn an Associate of General Studies at LSUE to transfer 60 credit hours toward LSUA’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. The structure gives future teachers an opportunity to complete the first half of their undergraduate education at LSUE while knowing from the beginning how that work will apply toward teacher preparation and a bachelor’s degree at LSUA. The partnership provides another entry point into the teacher workforce by helping students begin close to home, complete an associate credential along the way, and transition into professional preparation at LSUA without unnecessarily repeating coursework.

The cybersecurity pathway allows students who earn LSUE’s Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology with a concentration in Cybersecurity to apply up to 60 credit hours toward LSUA’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Technology. The aligned curriculum includes coursework in programming, software security, cybersecurity, computer networks, Linux systems, database management, and systems administration. For students pursuing careers in cybersecurity and information technology, the agreement creates a direct progression from applied technical preparation into advanced undergraduate study.

Together, the three agreements reflect a broader effort within the LSU System to build academic pathways around student needs rather than institutional boundaries. By coordinating curricula and creating predictable transfer routes, LSUE and LSUA can provide students with multiple points of entry into higher education while helping them continue toward the credentials required for their career goals.

That collaboration is central to the LSU Enterprise commitment to “Changing the way we educate Louisiana.” For institutions like LSUE and LSUA, that means creating an educational system in which students can enter where it makes the most sense for them, move more easily among LSU institutions, and continue building the knowledge and credentials necessary to contribute to Louisiana’s workforce and communities.

Written by Adam Lord

Photo by Mira Alvarado

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The City of Pineville recognized Jason Belgard and Abell “Slim” Seastrunk for their years of service and dedication to the community.

Belgard was recognized for more than 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Pineville.

Seastrunk was recognized for more than 19 years of dedicated service.

Together, Belgard and Seastrunk represent more than 44 years of public service to the City of Pineville.

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Funeral services for Mrs. Dolores Dean Owens Morrison will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at St. Clair Baptist Church, Boyce, with Reverend Danny George and Brother Jimmy Koonce officiating. Interment will follow in Fellowship Methodist Cemetery, Hineston, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mrs. Morrison, 96, of Otis, entered eternal rest on Friday, October 2, 2026, in Summer House, Alexandria, LA.

Dolores was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a longtime member of St. Clair Baptist Church. She and her husband purchased Morrison & Son General Merchandise in 1949, and she was the driving force there for forty years. She also operated Mom & Pops Video Shop.

In 1973, she earned her nursing license and worked nights at Fair Oaks Nursing Home in Hineston. Dolores enjoyed spending time at the Senior Citizens Center with her friends, and they also made their coffee rounds every evening at 3:00. She and her friends loved to travel throughout the United States with Spangler Tours. Her favorite trips were to Bermuda and Hawaii. She leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Irvin C. Morrison; her parents, Lemuel and Pearl Owens; and one brother, Gerald Owens.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include three sons, Charles Morrison (Judie) of Madison, Mississippi, Jimmy Morrison (Debbie) of Hineston, and Steve Morrison (Cindy) of Houston, Texas; one sister, Jeanne Rachal of Boyce; one grandson, Ryan Morrison; four granddaughters, Leslie Anderson (Paul), Alisha Hooker (Mathew), Jamie Liu (Harvey), and Nikki Lansdale (Josh); three great grandsons, Garrett Hooker, Vincent Liu, and Julian Liu; five great granddaughters, Anna Crooks (Mitchell), Maggie Hooker, Makenzye Lansdale, Mylee Lansdale, and Josephine Liu; one nephew, Darian Rachal; and one niece, Twyla Rachal.

A time of visitation will be held at St. Clair Baptist Church, Boyce, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume at the church on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Ryan Morrison, Mathew Hooker, Josh Lansdale, Blake Powell, Mitchell Crooks, and Scotty Holt. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Johnson, Rickey Powell, and Garrett Hooker.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Sissy’s Restaurant and employees; Summer House in Alexandria: Maggie, Kelley, Courtney, Kim, and staff; and Harbor Hospice: Breana, Kassi, and staff.

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Mr. Richard L. Clayton, age 86, entered eternal rest on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at his home in Ball, surrounded by his family.

The Visitation for Mr. Richard will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Graveside Services, with Military Honors, will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Woodworth Cemetery with Pastor Kimsey officiating.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Glenda Clayton; son, Dale Clayton; parents, Willie Clayton and Elmerine Taylor Clayton; siblings, Willie “Billie” Clayton and Betty Jean Clayton.

Those left cherish his memory include his 5 daughters, Donna Hehnke (Ron), Debbie Schellenger (Terry), Dana Deen (Ricky), Darla Roberts (Keith), and Doretta Smith (Shea); 10 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.

Mr. Richard was a proud Navy veteran who believed in hard work, taking care of what was his, and loving his family well. He spent 30 years working at Dresser Industries, building a life he could be proud of. In his free time, he enjoyed being at the deer hunting club, listening to his favorite Elvis songs, watching John Wayne, and making sure his yard was perfect.

But of all the things he accomplished in his life, nothing meant more to Richard than his six children. Raising them was his greatest accomplishment and one of his greatest joys. His love, guidance, hard work, and devotion to his family will be remembered and cherished by his daughters and all those who were blessed to know him. Richard leaves behind not only memories, but a lasting legacy of a life well lived and a family deeply loved.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Marshall Deen, Kade Smith, Austin Roberts, Cameron Weidner, Patrick Murphy, and Nathan Parish.

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André Citroën was born to Jewish parents in 1878 in Paris, France.  Inspired by books by Jules Verne and the three-year construction of the Eiffel Tower when he was a pre-teen, Andre was determined to become an engineer.  In 1898, twenty-year-old André graduated from the prestigious École Polytechnique.  He worked for the Mors automobile firm for six years, during which time he increased production from 125 cars per year to over 1,200.  In July 1919, he founded the Citroën automobile company.  By using mass production techniques, he built affordable, reliable cars for the masses and became the Henry Ford of Europe.

From April to October 1925, the Eiffel Tower was the centerpiece of the great Exhibition of Decorative and Industrial Arts.  The Eiffel Tower’s chairman of the board offered several companies the right to have their company’s name illuminated in electric lights on the tower for a fee. André accepted and more than 200,000 light bulbs spelled out the name “Citroën.”  It was the world’s largest advertising sign at the time, and André’s name was illuminated on the very object that sparked his interest in becoming an engineer.  By the early 1930s, Citroën was the fourth largest car manufacturer in the world.  André was constantly improving the design, safety, comfort, and most of all, the reliability of his cars.  When André died in 1935 of stomach cancer, Pierre Boulanger became Citroën’s vice president and chief of the Engineering and Design department.  Two years later, he became president of the company.  

Then came World War II.  In June 1940, Germany conquered France and occupied Paris.  Adolph Hitler celebrated the victory by touring Paris and had his cameraman take a photo of him staring at the Eiffel Tower to use as propaganda.  During the occupation, German leaders asked Pierre to have the Citroën factory build military trucks for the war machine and Pierre knew better than to refuse.  Pierre had his workers build the trucks as slowly as possible but fast enough to avoid alerting the German overseers.  The new Citroën military trucks rolled off the assembly line in perfect working order, but the engines in the Citroën trucks began seizing shortly thereafter.  German mechanics disassembled the engines but could find no reason for the engines seizing up.  All fluids in the engines were at their proper level and no parts showed excessive wear or damage.  They could find no sign of sabotage.  Pierre blamed the engine failures on the harsh wartime conditions and on the soldiers for not checking the fluids in the engines regularly.  His factory kept building trucks for the Germans at a slow pace.  We must remember that the French invented the word sabotage, and Pierre was certainly a saboteur.  So, the next time you pull the dipstick out of your car’s engine to check the oil level, maybe you will think of Pierre.  For that was his master blow against the German war machine.  You see, those Citroën engines which were among the most reliable in Europe kept seizing because Pierre lowered the safe level mark on the dipsticks.  It is amazing what a big difference a small alteration can make. 

Sources:

1.     Stephan Joest, “Remembering André Citroën: A Visionary Who Shaped France and the World,” Citroënvie!, July 3, 2025, accessed September 27, 2026, https://citroenvie.com/remembering-andre-citroen-a-visionary-who-shaped-france-and-the-world/.

2.     “Citroën. 100 years of the Eiffel Tower illumination,” Citroënvie!, March 14, 2025, accessed September 27, 2026, https://citroenvie.com/citroen-100-years-of-the-eiffel-tower-illumination/.

3.     Henry Cesari, “French Motor-Heads Sabotaged the Nazi War Machine With…Oversized Dipsticks,” February 7, 2024, accessed September 27, 2026, https://www.motorbiscuit.com/sabotaged-nazis-dipsticks/.

© 2026 Brad Dison. All rights reserved. Remember This? is distributed for licensed publication only.

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Phonetic: /con·​va·​lesce/

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition

to recover health and strength gradually after sickness or weakness

He is convalescing from influenza.

Melba Ione Niemeyer
December 13, 1940 – October 5, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 12:30pm at Kramer Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Joyce Ann Butler
June 30, 1949 – October 4, 2026
Service: Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 12pm at Kramer Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Richard L. Clayton
August 20, 1940 – October 4, 2026
Service: Thursday, October 8, 2026, 10:30am at Woodworth Cemetery, Woodworth.

Derick Steven Cheek
February 24, 1966 – October 3, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 11am at Fellowship Chapel, Ball.

Dolores Dean Morrison
November 20, 1929 – October 2, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 10am at St. Clair Baptist Church, Boyce.

Eulalia Edwards Carter
January 17, 1949 – September 28, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.

Robert Earl Price
? – September 28, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 12pm at First Evening Star Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Pamela Lee Hampton
September 29, 1956 – September 26, 2026
Service: Friday, October 9, 2026, 11am at Antioch Baptist Church, Alexandria.

Jacob Van Davis
July 14, 1979 – August 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026, 11am at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora.

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access.

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Facebook gives me this from awhile back. Doubt much has changed.

While talking the other day with a young technician who works at a drug screening lab she noted the number of things people try in effort to fool science.

I remarked it reminded me of the various ruses inductees tried at Selective Service induction centers back in the 60’s. She had no idea what I was talking about.

Explained registration, lottery and draft to her and she asked why there would be such a thing.

Reminded her there was a war going on. Realized she had no clue which one.

She asked what if you didn’t want to join? Didn’t have time for that. Referred her to the White House.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) advises the public that beginning October 6, 2026 at 8:00 am, the southbound right lane of US 165 will be closed to traffic between Harris Road and Fish Hatchery Road.

The closure is necessary to allow for the milling and overlaying of the roadway. The lane closure is anticipated to last three days.

Permit/Detour section
There is no detour or width restrictions associated with this lane closure.

Safety Reminder
DOTD appreciates your patience and reminds you to please drive with caution through the construction site and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at www.511la.org. Additionally, you can follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page

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Louisiana Christian Holds Inaugural Presidential Gala
Louisiana Christian University

Louisiana Christian University held its first-ever Presidential Gala Thursday evening at the Alexandria Convention Center, drawing more than 300 guests to an event honoring the school’s 120-year history and recognizing outstanding alumni and athletes.

Distinguished Alumni honorees included Alonzo “Buzz” Kelley of the Class of 1957, who received an honorary degree during the ceremony after spending his career building long-term care facilities in Central Louisiana; Tommy Bankston, also Class of 1957, who served as principal of Winnfield Senior High School and later superintendent of Winn Parish Schools before entering the nursing home industry; and Debbie Curtis Eutsler, Class of 1975, who has served for more than 40 years in education and currently serves as Lower School Principal at John Curtis Christian School in River Ridge.

The university also inducted two new members into its Sports Hall of Fame: former softball standout Savannah Settle Davis, a four-time First Team All-ASC selection from 2015–2018, and former women’s basketball coach Jason Tinsley, who compiled an 89–25 record and led the Wildcats to three ASC East Division Championships and three NCAA Division III Tournament appearances from 2010 to 2014.

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson used the occasion to launch the university’s five-year capital campaign — Restore, Rebuild and Reimagine — with a goal of raising $12 million. The campaign received an initial $1.2 million grant. Among the attendees were Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy, State Senator Jay Luneau, State Representative Mike Johnson, and Lance Maxwell, deputy chief of staff for Gov. Jeff Landry.

Alexandria Police Invite Community to National Night Out Tuesday
Alexandria Police Department

The Alexandria Police Department is inviting residents to join officers and community partners Tuesday, October 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Alexandria Zoological Park for National Night Out.

The annual event gives residents the opportunity to meet officers in a relaxed, family-friendly setting outside of an emergency or service call. APD encourages families to make plans to attend.

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The 2026 Natchitoches Car Show, a sure sign of the upcoming Fall season now in its 20th year, was held Friday and Saturday in downtown Natchitoches. Thousands of visitors filled the downtown area and enjoyed seeing 357 cars parked on the riverbank and Front Street. The vehicles ranged from a variety of classic Volkswagens to a 1939 Rolls Royce limousine. There was indeed something for every taste.

The visiting car owners started arriving on Friday and were treated to a welcoming fish fry. The car show continued Saturday morning and went on throughout the day. Visitors to the show were able to enjoy live music from several local bands as they perused the vehicles on display. At the end of the show, the car owners gathered at the downtown riverbank for the presentation of awards. 

The Natchitoches Classic Car Show has grown over the past 20 years into one of the largest and most eagerly awaited events held in the city as well as a popular destination for antique car aficionados. This year’s show featured a car driven by its owner all the way from British Columbia, Canada as well as a car from Alaska. The show is a solid day of nostalgia with no cost to attend. The event is also a wonderful showcase for our community. Events such as the annual Classic Car Show are part and parcel of what makes life in our community special!

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Donna Arender of Webster Parish has been named the grand prize winner of the Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway to Natchitoches, organizers announced Monday.

The $600 getaway package includes $300 in food cards, $200 in travel cash, and a $100 gas card to fund a weekend trip to Louisiana’s oldest city.

The popular promotion drew more than 4,400 entries from residents across Louisiana. Participating entries represented 27 parishes statewide: Acadia, Allen, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Calcasieu, Caldwell, Claiborne, De Soto, East Baton Rouge, Evangeline, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, LaSalle, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Orleans, Ouachita, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Tammany, Terrebonne, Union, Vernon, Webster, and Winn.

Organizers expressed appreciation to the thousands of readers who participated and congratulated Donna Arender of Webster Parish on winning the weekend retreat.

SAVE THE DATE: Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: Natchitoches Celebrates Dolly Parton

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The Kiwanis Club of Alexandria gathered for the installation of our new officers and Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 year on Oct. 1.

The evening began with Judge Greg Beard serving as our Master of Ceremonies. Mary Byrd, 2025–2026 President, officially called the meeting to order.

During the evening, Mary presented Ruby Pin Awards recognizing members who recruited new members.

– Gary “Bucket” Trotter was recognized for recruiting 10 new members.

– Tommy Joe Phillips was recognized for recruiting 5 new members. Tommy was unable to attend the evening.

Mary also selected Dr. Jeems White as the 2025–2026 Kiwanian of the Year, recognizing his dedication and service to our club.

In her closing remarks as president, Mary reflected on the accomplishments of the past year. Both of our major fundraisers—the Pancake Breakfast and Crawfish Boil—saw increased profits, helping strengthen our ability to support children and our community.

Our membership remained strong, with an overall stability with new members despite losing some longtime members because of declining health and, sadly, the passing of one of our members.

The past year also brought an exciting milestone for LSUA and Kiwanis. Dr. Jeems White made a financial donation, and Gracymay Byrd, President and a student at LSUA, dedicated an entire summer to the hard work of recruiting students and helping establish Circle K International at LSUA (CKI) at LSU Alexandria in the fall of 2025. This was especially significant because 1989 was the last time a CKI club had been established at LSUA.

There was so much dedication, hard work, teamwork, and volunteering behind everything accomplished this past year. None of it would have been possible without the commitment of our members and everyone who gave their time and talents to make a difference.

Installation of the 2026–2027 Leadership Team

Lt. Governor Kim Futrell of Winfield, officially installed the new Officers and Board of Directors for 2026–2027.

Officers:

– President: Jerry Edwards

– President-Elect: Kerry Rogers

– Past President: Mary Byrd

– Vice President: Grey Williams

– Treasurer: John Flynn

– Secretary: Darren Green

Board of Directors:

– Tommy Joe Phillips

– Dee Drell

– Jim Leggit

– Gary “Bucket” Trotter

– Susie Drell

– Keith Hillman

Passing the Gavel

Mary Byrd officially passed the gavel, with a blue bow, to our new President, Jerry Edwards.

Jerry spoke with excitement about the year ahead and shared his hopes for continued growth and success for the club. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved and looks forward to increasing the impact of Kiwanis in our community.

As a special recognition of her year of service, Jerry presented now Past President Mary Byrd with a Club President plaque, which she was very grateful to receive.

Following the closing prayer, President Jerry Edwards officially adjourned the meeting.

Congratulations to our new Officers and Board of Directors! We wish President Jerry Edwards and the entire 2026–2027 leadership team a successful year.

Together, through teamwork, service, and dedication, we continue to serve the children and families of our community.

Kiwanis Club of Alexandria — Serving the Children of Our Community.

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Past Councilchair Bob Hollingsworth, alongside sponsoring Lion Rachel Hazelton, recently inducted five new members into the Alexandria Guardian Lions Club Branch.

The Alexandria Lions Club described the ceremony as a welcoming of the new Lions into the pride.

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