By JIM BUTLER

CHRISTUS Health is closing its long-term acute care facility in Alexandria.

Public notice was given Wednesday that Dubois Hospital, located on St. Frances Cabrini’s fourth floor, will close May 31.

The specialized care facility is most recently listed as having 25 beds. It is one of several such that Christus Health operates among its more than 600 care centers in several states.

Wednesday’s notice did not include factors in the decision.

Persons seeking patient records are referred to Priority Hospital Group, 1000 Chinaberry Drive, Suite 200, Bossier City, LA 71111.

PHC operates three acute care hospitals in Louisiana.

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The North Rapides Business & Industry Alliance (NRBIA) held its May 2025 meeting today at Louisiana Christian University (LCU), where attendees heard key legislative and economic updates affecting the region.

District 27 State Representative Mike Johnson delivered a mid-session report from the Louisiana Legislature, focusing heavily on efforts to address high auto insurance rates. Johnson outlined several bills intended to reduce insurer liability and restrict certain claims, with the goal of ultimately lowering costs for drivers across the state.

Among the legislation discussed was House Bill 431, which would prohibit drivers who are deemed at least 51% at fault in an accident from collecting damages—except in narrowly defined situations. HB434 would increase the penalties for uninsured motorists by raising the amount of bodily injury and property damage that cannot be recovered from $15,000 to $100,000. Johnson also touched on HB450 and HB436, which would create new procedural requirements and limitations for filing lawsuits against insurance providers.

In addition to legislative updates, David Lamont, Senior Vice President of SunGas Renewables, gave an update on the company’s planned development at the former International Paper (IP) site in Pineville. Lamont reported that the project’s development phase is nearing completion, with construction expected to begin no later than summer 2026.

The meeting was well-attended and described as highly informative by participants, highlighting both public policy developments and economic growth initiatives in the region.

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Olivia McClure, LSUAgCenter

Hydrangeas have long been a staple of Southern gardens, and it’s no wonder why. These beloved flowers, with their unique clusters of delicate blooms, offer a late-spring and early-summer splash of color to shaded areas — something that’s not always easy to find.

Hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs. Like most shrubs, it’s best to plant them in the fall. But you can appreciate their beautiful blooms right now — or soon.

There are many species of hydrangeas out there, but in Louisiana, you’re most likely to encounter three. Each has its own unique characteristics, care requirements and bloom times.

Bigleaf hydrangea

This is what most people think of at the mention of the word “hydrangea.” With large, rounded flower heads, which are technically known as corymbs, this hydrangea is native to East Asia. It’s sometimes called French hydrangea, garden hydrangea and mophead hydrangea, and its Latin name is Hydrangea macrophylla.

The bigleaf hydrangea can grow well in both acidic and alkaline conditions. For many cultivars, soil pH determines the color of blooms. Acidic soil yields shades of blue, and alkaline soil prompts pinks and purples. White-flowering cultivars are available, too, and aren’t influenced by pH. Flowers typically emerge in May and last for a few weeks.

This plant does best in full shade. Some sun in the morning is OK, but it definitely needs to be shaded during the intense heat of the afternoon. Water regularly, especially during the intense heat of the summer.

Most bigleaf cultivars reach 4 to 6 feet tall and typically don’t require much pruning. But if you have an established shrub that you feel has become unruly or if you need to remove damaged wood, be sure to prune immediately after flowering ends in late summer.

Don’t prune at other times of year, as the bigleaf hydrangea blooms on old wood. This means it sets flower buds on the previous year’s growth.

Newer bigleaf cultivars are being bred with heat resistance and color stability in mind. Some even rebloom throughout the growing season.

Oakleaf hydrangea

Unlike the familiar bigleaf hydrangea, the oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is native to the southeastern United States. In nature, it’s an understory shrub in forests that also can be found along high stream banks.

This hydrangea has a few things in common with the bigleaf hydrangea — like its preference for shade and pruning requirements. But there are some important distinctions.

For one, good drainage is crucial for the oakleaf hydrangea. Too much water will spell trouble for this plant, which is particularly susceptible to root rot.

Oakleaf hydrangea flowers appear a bit earlier, starting in late April in some parts of Louisiana. The foliage offers great red-and-orange fall color in northern parishes.

This species can reach well over 10 feet tall in perfect conditions — but in cultivation, it usually stays in the range of 4 to 8 feet. Its cone-shaped, bright white flower clusters make a statement in shaded areas. They contrast nicely with the shrub’s large, lobed, textured, green leaves that resemble oak tree foliage.

Panicle hydrangea

The panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata), a native to Asia, is quite different from the bigleaf and oakleaf species.

It craves sun — although it can still benefit from some afternoon shade in our climate. It’s much larger and grows more vigorously. Older cultivars can reach 15 feet tall and higher; newer ones grow to between 3 and 8 feet tall in the Deep South.

The panicle hydrangea also blooms later, with the first flowers usually emerging in late May to June. The cone-shaped flower heads, or panicles, on many cultivars are initially greenish and later turn white and then pinkish. The blooms can stay on the plant for months as they cycle through the different colors.

This plant should be watered regularly during establishment and times of excessive heat and drought. But as long as you don’t overwater, this species is less particular about watering than others.

While other hydrangea species bloom on old wood, the panicle hydrangea sets flowers on new wood. That means pruning can be done in late winter or early spring. Pruning helps keep these robust plants’ size and shape in check.

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It started for me long ago. My daddy always had a copy or two of the Big Three in outdoor magazines – Field and Stream, Sports Afield or Outdoor Life lying around and one of my early childhood pleasures was picking one up, flipping through the pages and reading articles written by guys that became my heroes.

My favorite was Grits Gresham. I thought of him as a local guy since his hometown, Natchitoches, was only 40 miles or so from where I grew up. Grits would transport me in fantasy to far distant lands as he wrote about hunting wild game animals all the way from Colorado to the Congo.

Other favorite writers were those who majored in humor writing. Ed Zern, Charlie Dickey and Pat McManus et al would find me flipping to the back pages to chuckle at the brilliant way they handled humor.

Today, you’ll be hard-pressed to find actual print copies of these favorite magazines of mine. Take Outdoor Life, for instance. I checked on-line to see how this magazine is offered to readers today. Here’s what I read…”Outdoor Life is a digital-only magazine covering hunting, fishing camping, survival and outdoor gear.”

Sports Afield? “Please click the link below to access your copy of the digital version.”

Field and Stream? They are giving it a shot at bringing back the print version of this popular magazine. “That’s right – print! We’re bringing back the magazine!” Good luck with that.

My interest has been drawn to a couple of on-line magazines that have emerged from the pack in recent years. Both Catfish NOW! and Crappie NOW! are edited by outdoor writer friends of mine. Keith “Catfish” Sutton heads the one on catfish while Richard Simms is editor of the one targeting crappie anglers.

About Catfish NOW!, in checking the web site, I read the following. “…is a user-friendly web-based magazine and social media platform. Our goal is to entertain and educate catfish anglers at all skill levels and outdoors enthusiasts from all walks of life. Catfish NOW! is FREE. A new issue is released around the 15th of each month. Readers can subscribe by using our subscribe button on the home page.”

Here’s what I learned about Crappie NOW! “An unequaled online-only crappie fishing magazine aimed at passionate crappie anglers from all skill levels. It is presented on a platform where readers can search for information on new crappie fishing tips, techniques destinations, equipment, tackle, tournament and the latest news from industry-leading professionals.” This publication is also free and can be accessed by using the subscribe button on the home page.

You can subscribe to Outdoor Life and Sports Afield online but you pay for the privilege. On the other hand, both the catfish and crappie magazines are entirely free and are financed by magazine sponsors.

I enjoy reading both these free ones and I can take them with me wherever I go; all I have to do is click a button and find out all I need to know about how to catch catfish and crappie. However, I have to admit that I miss sitting down and flipping through the pages of a magazine you can hold in your hands.

The times, folks, they are a-changing, aren’t they?

Contact Glynn at glynnharris37@gmail.com

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The Pineville Police Department recently participated in a professional development training hosted by Police2Peace, an organization known for its focus on community-centered policing practices.

Funded through a U.S. Department of Justice grant, the training came at no cost to the City of Pineville or its taxpayers. The program offered officers the opportunity to deepen their commitment to policing that is effective, empathetic, and rooted in justice—principles that have long guided the department’s mission.

“We were proud to learn that our current practices already align with the values emphasized by the Peace Officer program,” the department shared in a statement. “This training reaffirmed our approach to building strong, respectful relationships with the community we serve.”

As part of its ongoing effort to foster transparency and connection with the public, the Pineville Police Department encourages residents to submit compliments for officers who have made a positive impact. A new feature on the department’s website allows community members to recognize officers for outstanding service.

To submit a compliment or learn more about the department’s work, visit: pinevillepd.com/compliment.

The department expressed its gratitude for the continued support of Pineville residents and reaffirmed its dedication to serving with integrity, professionalism, and respect.

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Local law enforcement officers, community members, and Special Olympics athletes came together for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Louisiana, held recently in Rapides Parish.

The run began at the Rapides Parish Courthouse and concluded along the banks of the Red River, bringing awareness and support for Special Olympics athletes across the parish. Participants carried the symbolic torch as a sign of unity, inclusion, and encouragement for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Following the event, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office hosted a supper for athletes and participants, providing a moment of fellowship and celebration after the run.

The Torch Run continues to be a meaningful tradition, highlighting the commitment of local law enforcement and the broader community to supporting Special Olympics Louisiana and its mission.

 

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions. 

 

May 21

K’ci Jaleell Rue, 25, Alexandria – possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, no bail data;

Dustin Aulbey Wages, 40, Pineville – Louisiana fugitive, possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $2,500 bail;

Tina L. Whatley, 41, Alexandria – flight from an officer, improper turn, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, driving under suspension, contempt of court, $31,700 bail.

 

May 20

Gavyn A. Anderson, 21, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, aggravated assault, $20,000 bail;

Lonnie Dewayne Baggett, 35, Alexandria – possession of CDS, sex offender failure to timely register,

CDS use in presence of juvenile, child desertion, no driver’s license, improper turn, brake lamp required, $5,300 bail;

Jacob Allen Bennett, 29, Boyce – simple escape, two counts Louisiana fugitive, $10,000 bail;

Montavion Tyrell Bryant, 26, Alexandria – second degree battery, possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, $80,500 bail;

Shannon Nicole Cornell, 43, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, possession of CDS, $2,600 bail;

Aaron Keilth Culbert, 37, Pineville – aggravated assault, simple burglary, contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Elijah Frank, 19, Alexandria – two counts aggravated assault with a firearm, $50,000 bail;

Melvin Dean Johnson Jr, 37, Alexandria – battery on officer, simple resisting a police officer with force or violence, obstruction of justice, concealed negligent carry of handgun, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $32,000 bail;

John T. Jones Jr – aggravated battery, reckless operation of vehicle, driving under suspension, four counts contempt of court, $62,200 bail;

Shawanda McMillon, 40, Columbia – possession of CDS, two counts producing manufacturing dispensing with intent CDS, possession of CDS, safety belt violation, improper driving on left, $10,700 bail;

James A. Mcrevy, 68, Pineville – aggravated assault, $5,000 bail;

Antonio Martinez Nichols, 29, Colfax – possession of firearm by convicted felon, aggravated second degree battery, parole violations, $40,000 bail;

William Joseph Ramshur, 39, Alexandria – theft, criminal trespass, possession of CDS, nine counts contempt of court, $8,500 bail.

 

May 19

Emily Laura Brown, 43, Hineston – simple burglary, taking contraband to and from penal institution, possession of CDS, $60,000 bail;

Daniel L. Delrie, 48, Pineville – theft, criminal trespass, two counts criminal damage to property, resisting an officer, criminal mischief, trespassing/remaining after forbidden, disturbing the peace, $5,000 bail;

Kavita Devi, 20, Alexandria – producing manufacturing dispensing CDS, $25,000 bail;

Brittany Gaines, 34, Alexandria – criminal trespass, four counts contempt of court, $16,000 bail;

Tony Lee Graves, 53, Pineville – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, improper driving on left, speeding, turning at intersections, no Louisiana driver’s license, failure to secure registration, expired plate registration, $3,000 bail;

Dominique Twayne Gullette, 26, Alexandria – weapon possession by convicted felon, safety belt violation, driving under suspension, parole violations, $15,200 bail;

D’onte Malik Laird, 28, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $1,500 bail;

Anthony Lebleu, 25, Ball – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Robert Lee Mouille, 32, Forest Hill – OWI first offense, illegal carrying of a weapon, three counts possession of CDS, hit and run driving no serious injury, reckless operation, two counts contempt of court, $17,000 bail;

Gary A. Robertson, 61, Pineville – criminal trespass, criminal mischief, theft, illegal possession of stolen things, possession of burglary tools, criminal damage to property, $52,500 bail;

Davante Deundra Thomas, 32, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing with intent CDS, theft, contempt of court, $28,000 bail;

Ronald Issac Vollm, 50, Pineville – four counts contempt of court, $20,000 bail;

Calvin Michael Williams Jr., 30, Pineville – two counts aggravated second degree battery, inciting to riot, two counts resisting an officer, two counts simple burglary, two counts criminal trespass, three counts burglary of inhabited dwelling, $104,000 bail.

 

May 18

Adam Corey Mathews, 35, Pineville – criminal trespass, theft, $1,000 bail;

Justin Ryan Shelton, 25, Hineston – OWI third offense, simple escape, theft of a motor vehicle, speeding, driving under suspension, $101,200 bail;

Hunter Bradford Smith, 23, Pineville – disturbing the peace, four counts contempt of court, $12,500 bail;

Michael Wayne Smith Jr. 26, Pineville – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $100,000 bail;

Tracey Lynn Willbanks, 47, Alexandria – aggravated battery, probation violation, $1,500 bail.

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The Rapides Parish School Board announced that free summer meals will be available to all children 18 and under beginning June 2. The program will run through June 26 or 27, depending on the location.

Children can enjoy both breakfast and lunch at any of the designated summer meal sites, regardless of where they live or attend school. All sites are open to the public, providing families with a convenient way to keep kids fueled and healthy during the summer break.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit their nearest site and take advantage of this opportunity to ensure their children receive nutritious meals throughout the summer months.

For a list of participating locations and meal times, visit rpsb.la/summer2025meals.

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On May 22, 1967, something quietly revolutionary happened on American television. A soft-spoken man in a cardigan sweater walked through a set door, changed his shoes, and welcomed millions of viewers—mostly preschoolers—into a neighborhood where kindness, imagination, and honesty reigned supreme.

That man was Fred Rogers. The show was Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. And with its official premiere in color on this date, a gentle movement began that would ripple through American culture for decades.

Unlike the loud, fast-paced children’s programming of the era, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood offered something radically different: stillness, sincerity, and emotional depth. There were no flashy animations or laugh tracks. Instead, viewers got hand puppets with complex personalities, visits to the crayon factory, and quiet conversations about feelings, fears, and friendship.

What made the show truly revolutionary was Fred Rogers himself. With his calm voice, thoughtful mannerisms, and unwavering respect for children’s intelligence, Rogers created a space where kids felt seen and safe.

He didn’t shy away from tough topics either. Episodes thoughtfully addressed death, divorce, war, and even the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy—all from the perspective of a child trying to understand a confusing world.

Fred Rogers’ choice of attire—those famous zip-up cardigans—was more than a fashion statement. They were symbols of comfort and routine, knitted by his mother and worn in nearly every episode.

He entered each show singing “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” and exited with words of affirmation and encouragement, often reminding children that they were special “just the way they are.”

That simple message struck a chord with viewers across generations. In a world often shaped by competition, achievement, and image, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood celebrated self-worth, empathy, and love.

Premiering in the midst of civil unrest, political upheaval, and the Vietnam War, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood became a cultural anchor. In one notable episode, Rogers invited Officer Clemmons—a Black police officer played by actor François Clemmons—to share a wading pool with him on a hot day, gently defying racial segregation.

This moment, like so many others on the show, was quiet yet powerful. It taught without preaching. It modeled without moralizing. And it showed young audiences how to navigate a world that was often anything but kind.

More than 900 episodes aired between 1967 and 2001. Fred Rogers became not just a television host, but a trusted guide and national treasure. His influence extended beyond TV. In 1969, he famously testified before Congress to help save public broadcasting funding—his heartfelt speech is still studied today as a masterclass in persuasion through sincerity.

Even after his passing in 2003, Rogers’ legacy continues. Documentaries like Won’t You Be My Neighbor? and the 2019 film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood introduced new generations to his message. His simple wisdom—be kind, be curious, be yourself—feels more relevant than ever.

On May 22, 1967, television became more than entertainment. It became a place for nurturing hearts and minds.

Today, as kids navigate a digital world filled with noise, comparison, and endless stimulation, the slow, steady kindness of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood remains a beacon of hope. It reminds us that sometimes, the most radical thing you can do is look into the camera—and into a child’s heart—and say: “I like you just the way you are.”

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The Rotary Club of Alexandria recognized its 2025 scholarship recipients, honoring the students, their parents, and school administrators.

This year’s recipients will continue their education locally at Louisiana State University at Alexandria (LSUA) and Louisiana Christian University (LCU):

Calyn M. (ASH) – LSUA, Biology
Kaitlyn R. (Tioga High) – LCU, Biology or Chemistry
Josephine M. (Bolton Academy) – LSUA, Education

The Rotary Club congratulates these outstanding students and wishes them success in their college journeys.

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Among the many recognitions at the May School Board Meeting, one standout student received special honors for her academic achievements and community service. Mandy B., a senior at Buckeye High School, has been named the Student of the Year.

Mandy is involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, serves on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Board, is a National Merit Finalist, and has qualified for State Literary Rally in multiple subjects. Her dedication to excellence and service has earned her numerous scholarships and recognitions. Congratulations to Mandy for representing Buckeye High and Rapides Parish with such distinction!

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The Rapides Parish Early Childhood team visited the Louisiana State Capitol this week to celebrate securing $4.8 million in funding for the 2024–2025 school year, including $2.4 million in new state and local dollars.

The funding will provide over 300 early childhood education scholarships for working parents and student-parents in Rapides Parish. Funding for the 2025–2026 school year is already in place to continue the program.

State Representative Mike Johnson praised the team—Cindy Rushing, Patti Jo Pearson, Emily Welch, Cindy Cespiva, and Shannon Johns—for their work in supporting families and expanding access to early education.

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There is a funny story about Karl Barth, one of the most famous theologians of the 20th century. He was on a streetcar one day in Basel, Switzerland, where he lived and lectured. A tourist to the city climbed on the streetcar and sat down next to Barth. The two men started chatting with each other. “Are you new to the city?” Barth inquired. “Yes,” said the tourist. “Is there anything you would particularly like to see while you are here?” asked Barth.  “Yes, indeed,” he replied. “I’d love to meet the famous theologian, Karl Barth. Do you know him or where I can find him to meet him?” Barth replied, “Well as a matter of fact I do. I give him a shave every morning.” Just then the streetcar comes to a stop and the tourist gets off quite delighted. He couldn’t wait to get back to the hotel to tell his wife that he met Karl Barth’s barber.

This story amuses me. The tourist was in the very presence of the one he wanted to meet most, and even with an obvious clue, he never realized he was talking to the great theologian Karl Barth himself.

Has that ever happened to you? Have you ever been looking for something or even someone and it was right there in front of you the whole time? My dad used to say in those times growing up when I would overlook the obvious, “if it was a snake, it would have bit you!” I still often overlook the obvious, but I am trying to do better, to be better, to take in the spoken and the unspoken. To not rush so quickly to judgement or race by people and places in a mad dash to the next thing so as to take in the beauty of the moment. I’m not there yet. I am a work in progress.

On the journey,
Ramonalynn Bethley

Ramonalynn Bethley is the Lead Pastor at First United Methodist Church of Alexandria. You can contact Ramonalynn directly at DrRevRL@fumca.org.

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Your Guide to Peach Festival Weekend

The 75th Annual Louisiana Peach Festival will take place on June 7, 2025, but the peach celebrations will be going all week long in Ruston, LA!  If you’re planning to spend a full weekend soaking in the sweet peachy charm of Ruston, let this guide help you make the most out of your adventure.

Friday, June 6

Eat:

From June 2-7, enjoy Peach Culinary Crawl, a weeklong tasting tour featuring over 20 local restaurants. Each participating location will offer special peach-inspired items. From peach BBQ and burgers to peach toast, cocktails, and desserts. There’s something to satisfy every craving. The full Culinary Crawl menu is available in late May on the Peach Fest website. 

See:

In celebration of the festival’s 75th anniversary, The Louisiana Peach Festival is collaborating with the Lincoln Parish Museum to present Peach Fest Through the Decades. This special exhibit will showcase memorabilia from the very first Peach Festival all the way through present day.

• Peach fest hack: After visiting the exhibit, explore downtown Ruston to scope out the festival grounds and snap a picture at one of the colorful murals!

Experience: There’s plenty to experience Friday before the festival. 

• Take a stroll through Downtown Ruston and browse the Peach Sidewalk Sale. Participating downtown shops will be offering peachy deals and special promotions from June 2-6. 

• • Peach Fest Hack: Grab a Peach Fest fit at the sidewalk sale to wear at the festival!

• The Peach Parade is a long loved and cherished tradition by festival attendees. The parade will take place in Downtown Ruston on Friday, June 6, at 6PM.
• After the parade, you can head over to the 36th Annual Peach Festival Rodeo for family entertainment, trick riders, and more. The rodeo starts at 8PM.

Saturday, June 7 – Festival Day

Festival activities start at 9:00AM and there’s plenty to eat, see, and experience—all located on the festival grounds.

Eat:
This year, enjoy bites from a variety of food vendors, offering everything from burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, to classic festival treats, refreshing drinks, and tasty snacks. You’ll also want to pay a visit to the Historic Fire Station for a scoop of frosty peach ice cream from the ladies of Beta Sigma Phi. 

• Peach Fest Hack: Ask vendors what their special peach item is! All food vendors create and offer a peachy item just for the Peach Festival.

The festival is also conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Ruston, so there’s plenty of local restaurants you can walk to. 

See:

• Festival Art Displays: Discover art boards and interactive displays by local artists that will be showcased throughout festival grounds.

• Ruston Antique Classic Car Show: Head over to Cadence Bank from 9:00 AM-3:00 PM for the Car Show. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love vintage charm, this show is sure to impress with its lineup of beautifully restored classic vehicles.
• Drone Show: Stick around till the headliner performance for the Peach Festival’s first ever drone show at 8:45 PM! This transforming sky display will take place before the headlining act to kick off the grand finale to the festival.

Experience: 

• Live Music: Enjoy more than 12 hours of live performances at the Railroad Park stage. With an exciting lineup of artists, the festival’s musical energy will keep you dancing all day long. Don’t miss the headliner, The Band of Heathens, taking the stage after the drone show.
• Kids Alley: A family-friendly zone packed with interactive activities and entertainment to keep the little ones smiling.
• Curated market: The festival will have over 70 vendors, all selling their handmade arts, jewelry, clothing, mugs, decorations, candles, and lots more. Additionally, you can stop by the Peach Fest Sticker Wall in the market—perfect for a fun and unique photo op. 

• • Peach Fest Hack: arrive early to the Curated Market before your favorite vendor sells out. Visit www.lapeachfest.com/vendors to get a sneak peek at what vendors are offering. 

Sunday, June 8

After a Saturday full of adventures, take it slow on Sunday. Sleep in, relax, and savor your last day in town before heading home.

Eat: 

Start your day with a delicious Sunday brunch at Trio’s. Whether you choose a cozy table indoors or enjoy the sunshine on their patio, you’re in for a wonderful dining experience. Looking for a spot closer to downtown? Try Board & Bottle’s Sunday brunch and specialty brunch cocktails.

See: 

While you’re at the festival Saturday, you will likely spot a few of Ruston’s unique bulldog statues scattered throughout downtown. In total, there are 22 bulldogs placed around the city—each with its own charm. Stretch your visit a little longer and turn your Sunday into a scavenger hunt to track down the ones you missed.

Experience: 

Wind down with a peaceful visit to Lincoln Parish Park. This park offers mountain biking and walking trails, kayaking, fishing, and a playground for the kids. It’s the perfect way to soak in the natural beauty of Ruston and cap off your Peach Festival weekend.

From peachy treats to live tunes and everything in between, the Louisiana Peach Festival is the perfect way to kick off your summer. Soak up the fun, explore Ruston, and celebrate 75 years of sweet traditions and unforgettable memories! 

To learn the insider tips and tricks all seasoned festival goers know, read up on our How to Peach Fest blog.

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The May School Board Meeting featured recognition of several standout student groups, including the Tioga Tones, who represented Rapides Parish on a national stage. The talented choir recently performed at the iconic Carnegie Hall in New York City as part of the prestigious Octavo Series Chorus through Manhattan Concert Productions.

The performance was the culmination of a year of dedication, intense rehearsals, and tireless fundraising. Their accomplishment highlights not only musical talent but also perseverance and community support. Congratulations to the Tioga Tones on this extraordinary experience!

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LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS: Reach thousands of potential customers by advertising in the Parish Journals that make up the Rapides Parish Zone.

Rapides Parish Journal
Avoyelles Parish Journal
Grant Parish Journal
LaSalle Parish Journal
Vernon Parish Journal

“Put YOUR business in front of 252,000+ local readers weekly!  Advertise with the Parish Journals of Louisiana.

On May 21, 1881, Clara Barton established the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C., laying the foundation for one of the nation’s most vital humanitarian organizations. Inspired by her experiences during the Civil War and the International Red Cross movement, Barton aimed to provide emergency assistance and disaster relief.

The organization has since played a crucial role in responding to natural disasters, wars, and health crises, embodying Barton’s legacy of compassion and service.

Other significant events on this date include:

1927: Charles Lindbergh completed the first solo nonstop transatlantic flight, landing in Paris after departing New York.

1932: Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, landing in Northern Ireland.

1955: Chuck Berry recorded his debut single “Maybellene,” influencing the future of rock and roll.

1979: The “White Night Riots” erupted in San Francisco following the lenient sentencing of Dan White for the killings of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk.

1991: Former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated by a suicide bomber during an election campaign.

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Community leaders, fitness enthusiasts, and local residents recently gathered at England Airpark for the grand opening of the AEX Loop, a nearly 9-mile recreational trail designed to promote health, wellness, and community connection. The event, hosted in partnership with the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guest speakers, and opportunities for attendees to walk, jog, or cycle portions of the new path.

The celebration took place at the England Airpark Community Center, located at 1718 Kegleman Blvd., where participants were treated to refreshments and a first-hand look at the loop’s scenic layout. The AEX Loop is fully accessible and open to the public year-round, offering a safe and scenic route for runners, walkers, and cyclists of all skill levels.

“This is an exciting addition to the community,” said Ralph Hennessy, C.M., Executive Director of England Airpark. “The AEX Loop reflects our ongoing commitment to creating spaces that support healthy lifestyles and bring people together.”

Stretching approximately nine miles, the trail weaves through the natural beauty of the Airpark, providing a peaceful and well-maintained route that enhances recreational offerings in Central Louisiana. Organizers expressed gratitude to the many community members who came out in support of the new project.

“We’re thrilled to see such strong community enthusiasm for the AEX Loop,” said a Chamber representative. “This trail is a wonderful resource for promoting active living and exploring the beauty of England Airpark.”

As Alexandria continues to invest in outdoor infrastructure, the AEX Loop stands out as a significant milestone in connecting people to nature and to one another.

For more information about the AEX Loop and upcoming community events at England Airpark, visit www.englandairpark.org.

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The buzz at the recent Tom Peyton Memorial Arts Festival in Alexandria was about the display room of 38 photographs by Jim E. Johnson, a wildlife biologist and wildlife photographer.

Johnson, a 73-year-old Army brat who was born in the Panama Canal Zone, is a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and he and Susan, his wife of 43 years, make their home in Lecompte near LSUA. Susan, a retired home economics teacher from Rapides High, is a bit of a preservationist. You see, she preserves some pictures that he deems endangered.

Honored that Jonathan Peyton, the treasurer of the arts festival, asked him if he’d be interested in having a display of his work, Johnson had to decide which of his voluminous set of photographs to choose for the display.

“Some of the ones I culled, she saved,” Jim said of his wife. “Like the photo of the blackbird under the title ‘You Did What?’”

If you didn’t see it, the male Brewer’s blackbird, captured in Johnson’s photo head-on, while in Colorado, has an expression with those characteristic bug eyes that befits the title in a way that tickles the old funny bone. He captured that whimsical photo with a Canon 500 f4L lens.

Another popular photo in the display – which is redundant, I guess, because they all were popular – was of a “Peek-a-boo Fox.”

“A den of them were playing in the field in my pasture,” Jim said. “I happened to see that one hiding and got lucky with that one.”

Johnson owns two lenses on his Canon camera – a super telephoto lens with a focal length of 500 millimeters, and a lighter weight lens with 100-400 mm zoom length. Both are digital, as expected, but he remembers buying his first film camera, a Minolta, after he retired from extended military service.

Johnson joined the Navy after his 1969 graduation from Glenmora High, and he quickly found himself riding patrol boats in Vietnam, which he did for a year. He also did some time aboard an aircraft carrier and a destroyer escort before leaving the Navy. After doing odd jobs for two years, he joined the Army infantry and spent 16 years of active duty at the Louisiana National Guard Recruiting Office and Armory on Coliseum Boulevard in Alexandria. He retired in 1996 as a master sergeant.

Jim’s father was an Army staff sergeant, and he lived with his folks in Fort Polk and Germany and at Fort Knox in Kentucky before settling in his parents’ native town of Glenmora. While in the Guard, he was a night student at Northwestern State, where he graduated in General Studies in 1985. He later took classes in biological sciences at LSUA and Oregon State.

Along the way, a clarinet player he met in New Orleans taught him the basics of photography. Combining that skill with his lifelong interest in nature, Jim developed a passion for both, in particular avian photography. His work has been published in several calendars, magazines and books.

His photos at the arts festival always draw you into those favorite photographic haunts of his such as the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge or the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge or the Louisiana coastlands. But there’s no limit to where he might find a potential photograph – and his camera is always with him when he travels. And he and Susan drive everywhere. “You miss too much when you fly,” he says.

He’s proud of a photograph of a Harlequin duck – a small North American sea duck normally found on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts – during a 2017 trip to Yellowstone. Adding to the rarity factor of the photo, the Harlequin duck is declining in population and considered endangered.

As to his knack for seemingly being at the right place at the right time for the perfect photo, Johnson says, “Sometimes it’s opportunistic.”

It helps that he has a camera that, he says, can take 30-40 frames in a second.

“Sometimes,” continues Johnson, a survivor of sextuple bypass surgery in 2003, “I may spend three or four days in duck blinds to get that one (excellent) photo.

“The key thing is I know the subject,” he went on. “I know where to go to look for something to know where it should be. It’s exciting, and sometimes it’s frustrating.”

His favorite photo of all? He showed me a photo of a bird that is considered the smallest and most beautiful falcon in North America. It is sitting on the tip of a leafless, three-pronged branch. There is a soft white background reflecting a gray, overcast day on Meeker Road in Lecompte last winter. It’s called “American Kestrel.”

“It’s a bird I’ve always been interested in,” he says. “They’re always on light wires and they’re very flighty.”

Winter, he says, is a time when a photographer can catch shots of raptors or falcons. Opportunities for bird shots get sluggish in the summer “like everything else,” he says, but in late summer he looks forward to shooting hummingbirds.

He has twice (2019, ’23) won “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” bird photography competitions put on by an art gallery in Lake Charles.

Yet, he wants to keep photography as a hobby rather than a profession. Why?

“When your hobby becomes a job, it’s not fun anymore,” he says. “This is still fun.”

A treasure of Johnson’s photos can be seen on the Jim E. Johnson Nature Photography web site: jimejohnsonphoto.com.

Bob Tompkins enjoyed a 43-year newspaper career as an award-winning writer and editor, serving the last 39 years at the Town Talk in Alexandria finishing in 2015. He is a member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame as a winner of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. An Alexandria resident, Tompkins is a contributing columnist sharing his talents weekly with Rapides Parish Journal readers.

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