By JIM BUTLER

Councilman at-large Jules Green proposes prohibiting by law termination of Alexandria utility services during extraordinary extreme weather conditions.

His ordinance revisions to that effect will be introduced at Tuesday’s city council session.

They would incorporate into City Code no involuntary terminations of electricity, water and/or natural gas service in defined conditions, codifying what has been indicated as informal policy in some past instances.

Green’s revision would prohibit nonpayment cutoff on any day when the previous day high was not above 32 degrees and official predictions are the high will be at or below that freezing point for the next 24 hours.

On the other extreme it would bar cutoff when an excessive heat warning is issued within 12 hours of the heat index reaching 105 for more than three hours per day for two consecutive days, or a heat index of 115 for any period of time.

Current service code, adopted in May 2004, gives the city the right to terminate primary services when an account is 10 days past due. Code also allows up to 60 days for resolution of any disputed charges.

Outside disputed balances, the city has rights to terminate at 45 days past due and close the account.

At 60 days, it has the right to send the account to collection.

The ordinance – Section 26 of the City Code – has no climate references and the language is couched in “rights to” rather than “shall”.

The proposal comes as council members ponder when, or if, they are going to move on overhauling a rate structure dating to 1986.

Combined Utility System revenues currently have a multifunction – pay for the operation and maintenance of the system, pay required service on bonded debt and make budgeted transfers to other city funds.

How long it can continue all those functions, or if it should, are the heart of the matter.

A study report last August recommended rates increases to reflect today’s costs and needs. 

Mayor Jacques Roy, acknowledging there is no political gain in doing so, has prodded the council to look at the rate structure with the aim of making it more reflective of the 21st Century.

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Dr. Mark Johnson will be inaugurated as the 10^th president of Louisiana Christian University on March 26 at 6 p.m. in Guinn Auditorium.

The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. James Dew, president of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Representatives from the religious, political, business and academic communities in Central Louisiana will also offer remarks. 

A mass choir will provide music made up of members from the Citywide Choir in Alexandria, LCU Chorale, First Baptist Kingsville, First Baptist Pineville and Philadelphia Baptist Church Deville.

Johnson, who was unanimously voted on by the Board of Trustees in February 2025, has been in office since June 1.

“I am incredibly grateful to the Lord in how He directed our steps through the search process, and we, as a search committee, felt confident God directed us to Dr. Mark Johnson to serve as the 10^th president of Louisiana Christian University,” said Dr. Tommy Kiker, chair of the LBC presidential search committee. “Since he has stepped into the role, I have been continually encouraged as a trustee of LCU, a friend of LCU, and a Louisiana Baptist Pastor. As we celebrate his inauguration, my hope and confidence remain steadfast. Mark Johnson is God’s man for God’s school.”

Johnson served as the director of the Doctor of Ministry program at NOBTS before accepting the presidency at LCU. 

Johnson earned a Doctor of Ministry from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, with his project titled Racial Reconciliation in the Southern Baptist Convention, focusing on the themes of repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. His debut book, Black Church White Convention: A Pastor’s Story of Hope, was published in spring 2025 and chronicles his experience leading an African American church into the Southern Baptist Convention. 

Johnson is a third-generation Baptist minister. He graduated with his B.A. from Washington and Jefferson College in 1994, becoming the first African American senior class commencement speaker in the college’s 243-year history. 

In 2019, Johnson and his family relocated to New Orleans to pursue a Ph.D. in Evangelism, Pastoral Ministries, and Christian Leadership. After guiding Edgewater Baptist Church of New Orleans through the COVID-19 pandemic as senior pastor, he joined the faculty at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as assistant professor of evangelism and pastoral ministries and director of the Doctor of Ministry Division. 

He and his wife, Heather Williams Johnson, have been married for 30 years. They have four children. 

 “As we prepare for this inauguration, one of the things that moves me most deeply is the breadth of leadership represented across Central Louisiana,” Johnson said. “This moment is not about one individual; it is about a region. It is about pastors and principals, business owners and public servants, nonprofit leaders and educators, alumni and students, all standing together. To see leaders from our churches, our schools, our municipalities, our civic organizations, and our business community gathered in one space sends a powerful message that we believe in this region, we believe in collaboration, and we believe the future of Central Louisiana is stronger when we lead together.”

This inauguration is not simply a ceremony, he added. It is a declaration that LCU stands shoulder to shoulder with Central Louisiana, committed to educating leaders, strengthening families, developing workforce excellence, and serving as a spiritual and intellectual anchor for this region. 

“I am deeply grateful that so many leaders have chosen to be part of this moment,” Johnson said. “Their presence honors the past, strengthens the present, and inspires the future. Together, we move forward, built on faith, driven by excellence.”

The inauguration is free and open to the public. Doors open at 5 p.m.

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Three parish boys basketball teams are bound for Marsh Madness in Lake Charles for semifinal games in the LHSAA state tournament, beginning with defending Class C state champion Plainview this afternoon.

The Holy Savior Menard Lady Eagles’ historic run at a state championship came painfully close to fruition Friday, but second-seeded Rosepine rallied in the second half and controlled overtime to win the Select Division III crown 42-34 in Hammond at the University Center in the LHSAA’s girls Marsh Madness event.

Alexandria Senior High outlasted visiting Tioga 50-42 in a boys Select Division I quarterfinal Friday night. The second-seeded Trojans play Wednesday at 4:30 in a semifinal contest against 11^th-seeded Edna Karr.

Peabody dominated visiting University Lab, the seventh seed, 71-31 Friday night in Select Division II. The No. 2-seeded Warhorses also play Wednesday in the semifinals, meeting third-seeded Washington-Marion at 8 o’clock, facing a Lake Charles team in its hometown.

Plainview also rolled in its Friday night quarterfinal contest at home. The Hornets, seeded third, blasted No. 11 Singer 68-49 on the heels of a 73-38 second-round win last Tuesday over 19^th-seeded Evans. Plainview, which won its first state title in 65 years last March, tries for its second straight championship game appearance today in a semifinal against second-seeded Pleasant Hill at 4:30 at Burton Coliseum.

Menard’s girls made their first-ever state finals appearance after reaching the state tournament for the third time in four seasons, and in the second season under coach Craig Whittington. It was the third state championship in four seasons for second-seeded Rosepine.

The Lady Eagles’ deliberate pace and swarming half-court defense befuddled Rosepine in the first half, producing a 17-11 Menard halftime lead. The margin was trimmed to 22-20 entering the fourth quarter, and the game went to overtime tied at 33.

But it was Rosepine’s defense that prevailed as Menard did not score in the final 3:19 of the four-minute extra period.

Neither team was able to shoot accurately – 23 percent by Menard, 26 percent from Rosepine. Menard made 15 turnovers and was only able to force five by the winners.

Carly Menard, one of five seniors on the team, scored 18 and grabbed 20 rebounds for Menard.

Despite the outcome, the Lady Eagles (23-8) were justifiably proud of reaching the state championship game for the first time and making it to Hammond for a third trip in four seasons while having a coaching change before last season. Menard won its first district championship since 2008, going undefeated in 5-2A.

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As spring brings an increase in outdoor activity, the City of Pineville Parks and Recreation Department is reminding residents about fishing regulations in place at Buhlow Lake.

City officials said certain types of fishing equipment are prohibited at the lake under a municipal ordinance designed to protect public safety and maintain the lake as a recreational resource.

The ordinance bans the use of trotlines, yo-yos, spring-operated fishing devices and other set lines, hooks, nets or traps in Buhlow Lake. Officials said the rules help ensure the lake remains safe for fishing, boating and other recreational activities.

The city also notes that the mayor has the authority to temporarily close the lake to public use for up to 90 days if necessary for health or safety reasons. If a closure occurs, notices will be posted around the lake indicating the length of the closure.

City officials said the regulations apply to the lake and surrounding shoreline areas leased from the state and will be enforced by appropriate city authorities. Residents are encouraged to follow the rules while enjoying the park and its recreational opportunities.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

March 8

Todd Anthony Alberes, 44, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery serious injury, no bail data;

Candace Noelle Guillory, 41, Boyce – aggravated battery, no bail data;

Dontavious Jenkins, 22, Colfax – possession of a firearm where alcohol is served, possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, no bail data;

Ashley Devon Johnson, 35, Alexandria – theft, three counts possession of CDS, probation violation, $500 bail.

March 7

Brian Bourgeois, 41, N/A – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, improper lane usage, $2,600 bail;

Chelsey Brooke Britt, 34, Alexandria – two counts Louisiana fugitive, two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $3,500 bail;

Juan Cruz Morales, 41, Forest Hill – three counts domestic abuse battery with child present, three counts child desertion, $4,500 bail;

Jada Marie Johnson, 27, Alexandria – home invasion, no bail data;

Demetrius Demon Milton Jr., 36, Alexandria – simple assault, simple battery, hit and run driving, criminal damage to property, violation of protective orders, $11,750 bail;

Johnny Lewis Wilson, 61, Alexandria – contempt of court, $100,000 bail.

March 6

Carlos Anderson, 49, Baton Rouge – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, possession of CDS, $7,500 bail;

Christopher Devon Braxton, 26, Pineville – 29 counts intentionally possessing child sexual abuse materials, two counts sexual battery, two counts indecent behavior with juveniles, simple kidnapping, probation violation, $1.525 million bail;

Maison Lane Dodge, 25, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, $5,000 bail;

Jeremiah Enriquez, 25, Shreveport – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband in state hospital, $40,000 bail;

Xzorian Ramone Fields, 21, Pineville – four counts attempted second degree murder, simple battery, simple battery, aggravated burglary, criminal conspiracy, contempt failure to pay fine, $1.05 million bail;

Landon James Fulcher, 27, Pineville – simple escape, probation violation, $50,000 bail;

Roger Stephan Haynes Jr., 62, Alexandria – simple battery, obscenity, $1,500 bail;

Loring Donnell Hughes, 45, Pineville – sex offender failure to notify law enforcement of change of address, driving under suspension, canceled plate violation, four counts contempt of court, $7,600 bail;

Raymond Karl Joseph, 69, Pineville – accessory after the fact, $100,000 bail;

Zoey Gabrielle Megison, 21, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, failure to report accident, $1,200 bail;

Derald Phillips, 78, Boyce – unauthorized use of food stamps, criminal damage to property, $2,000 bail;

Brianna Marie Price, 26, Pleasant Hill – simple robbery, criminal conspiracy, $30,000 bail;

Gregory Brent Wells Sr., 65, Pineville – accessory after the fact, obstruction of justice, $200,000 bail.

March 5

Breanna Nicole Baham, 28, Alexandria – two counts organized retail theft, two counts criminal conspiracy, domestic abuse battery serious injury, contempt of court, failure to appear, probation violation, $68,000 bail;

Dakota Lee Beebe, 29, Lena – possession of stolen vehicle, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, possession of firearm by convicted felon, Louisiana fugitive, parole violations, $65, 000 bail;

Ching Kye Bennett, 56, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, $5,000 bail;

Kenya Tagloni Brown, 52, Alexandria – second degree battery, $20,000 bail;

Bruce Edward Cooper Jr., 34, Alexandria – four counts producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, producing manufacturing distributing counterfeit CDS, criminal conspiracy, possession of paraphernalia, probation violation, $650,500 bail;

Clyde Ray Griffin, 51, Alexandria – six counts possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of CDS, six illegal carry firearm with drugs, producing manufacturing fistributing CDS and cocaine, $136,500 bail;

Reginald Christopher Hill, 41, Alexandria – theft, two counts contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Damon Kade Lee, 27, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing with intent CDS, unlawful sales of model glue to a minor, probation violation, $1,500 bail;

Charles Paul McTure, 39, Colfax – aggravated assault with a firearm, $20,000 bail;

Elvin Ortiz, 57, Pineville – possession of CDS, parole violations, $1,500 bail;

Terrick Gwayne Sewell, 37, Alexandria – criminal conspiracy, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, parole violations, $50,000 bail;

Jamarcus Terrell Swafford, 33, Pineville – possession of CDS, drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, bicycle lamps, parole violations, $2,600 bail;

Jordan Alexander Turner, 35, Oakdale – theft, two counts contempt of court, $10,500 bail.

March 4

Sundrea Denae Campbell, 29, Pineville – criminal conspiracy, simple burglary probation violation, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, simple burglary, $26,500 bail;

Jacob Blade Driggers, 35, Deville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Acquronder Reshell Green, 49, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, $250,000 bail;

Jarrett Jones, 29, Maringouin – possession of stolen vehicle, $3,000 bail;

Sarah Melissa Jones, 45, Alexandria – battery on officer, resisting an officer, aggravated battery on police officer, $11,000 bail;

Dameon Dashawn Mayes, 24, Vidalia – aggravated assault with a firearm, $100,000 bail;

Rebecca Lynn Ramirez, 32, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Isaac O’Neal Sanders, 19, Pineville – 18 counts of simple burglary, three counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, two counts theft of firearm, criminal conspiracy, resisting an officer, possession of marijuana, $241,000 bail;

Damien Dwayne Selders, 44, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, improper bicycle operation, failure to appear, $2,350 bail;

Pat Turnage, 73, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, $5,000 bail;

Albert Vandyke, 32, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, $1,500 bail.

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The City of Alexandria is inviting residents to participate in its annual Clean Alex community cleanup event on Saturday, April 18.

The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of Love the Boot Week, a statewide effort encouraging communities to help reduce litter and beautify public spaces.

City officials say the Clean Alex initiative gives volunteers the opportunity to work together to help keep Alexandria clean and improve the appearance of neighborhoods and public areas across the city.

Residents interested in participating can register through the City of Alexandria’s website. Organizers say volunteers of all ages are encouraged to take part in the effort to help make a positive impact on the community.

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Rickey Lynn Monk, age 69, entered eternal rest on Friday, March 6, 2026, at his home in Ball, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation for Mr. Monk will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Gallagher Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Services will begin at 1:00 p.m. with Bro. Pete Bruce officiating. Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Rickey’s life with food and fellowship following the service at the Ward 10 Recreation Center. 4600 Pardue Rd. Ball, Louisiana 71405

Webster defines legacy as heritage or attributes handed down through lineage. The day Rickey Monk was called home, he left a legacy. Whether it was helping to build I-49, runways at Fort Polk, being an avid bowler or smoked meat extraordinaire, he loved his life. Rickey was a giant among men with a wit and humor that matched. He loved his family fiercely, even more than he loved his work, and if you knew him, that was a lot. Whether he was teaching you the best spin on a softball, bowling or cue ball, how to hunt or fish, how to grade a curve in the highway or stripe and sign a road, he did it with all the knowledge one man could possess. He was the cornerstone of his family. Every piece of mortar between every brick of his family he laid with an unstoppable love to be the best husband, daddy, and Poppa that God called him to be. What he meant to his family and friends can never be written in just mere words, he lived his life in a way that only great men can, fully and for the world to see.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Jeannette Monk; and grandson, Landon Carter.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, JoAnn Dubroc Monk; children, Amber Monk Carter (Marc), Kimberly Monk Smith (Stephen), Ricki Monk (Brandon), Brian Vajcner (Jenifer), and Joseph Vajcner (Ashley); siblings, Dianne Monk Kendrick, and Randy Monk (Betty); grandchildren, Brandon Carter, Zach Hess, Emily Strange (Dylan), Beau Robertson (Hope), Lance Robertson (Brooke), Merissa Carter (Cameron), Brianna Smith, Chance Smith, Grady Higginbotham, Champ Vajcner, Finn Hendricks, Andi Vajcner, Kinsley Ivy, Oliver Hendricks, and Frankie Vajcner; great grandchildren, Oaklea Robertson, Rowyn Robertson, RaeLynn, Anderson, and Gentry Thompson; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Passage Hospice, especially to Heaven and Brittany for their care and compassion.

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By JIM BUTLER

Alexandria Councilman Chuck Fowler is appointing developer/property manager Rod Noles to the District 5 seat on GAEDA. 

The post is one of three vacant on the seven-member economic development panel which has operated with minimum quota for months. 

Each City Council member has an appointment to the Authority. Traditionally nominees are approved without dissent. They serve at will of the council seat holder. 

Notice of intent to file legislation in the upcoming session relative to GAEDA membership, attendance and the like has been advertised though not pre-filed as of Thursday, according to available records. 

Noles, recognized in his field nationally, has been active in the city’s business and civic circles for decades, with more successful developments than Carter has pills. 

His nomination comes at the end of a week in which GAEDA has been making news. 

It started with former member John Callis suing the Authority and its director for alleged overpayment of her salary and asking to have his litigation expenses reimbursed. 

Then GAEDA held a special meeting to discuss and set in motion its response. 

And an April 6 court date was set by Judge Monique Rauls to hear the Callis petition. 

Posted intent to seek bids at next week’s City Council meeting for the former Weiss & Golding parking garage and adjacent structure site demolition and clearance raise the question of whatever happened to the flap about a year ago between the city and GAEDA over their agreement regarding the property.

The Authority counsel questioned the pact, claiming it did not properly guard GAEDA’s interests.

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By JIM BUTLER

To many he’s Dickie – classmate, cheerleader, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather. 

To many, many more he’s Dr. Richard Clayton Ph.D, internationally recognized leader in the field of public health. 

He’s one of six to be inducted next month into the Bolton High Hall of Fame. 

Clayton, who started at the Vance Avenue school as an 8th-grader, is member of the Class of 1959 who recalls the excitement of getting to school each morning for pre-class socializing and the lessons learned within its classrooms. 

In particular was the opportunity to participate in Key Club activity under the guidance of legendary Kiwanian Nolan Hebert to whom he said he remains deeply indebted. 

Clayton took his undergraduate degree at Louisiana College (now Louisiana Christian), and is among its recognized Distinguished Alumni. 

His master’s was earned at Florida State and his doctorate  at Tennessee. 

Joining the University of Kentucky in 1970 he remained on its active faculty 43 years. 

Those years are filled with distinction on and off the campus. From Beijing to Boston, the transplanted Bear became a recognized authority. 

Back in Lexington he helped found the UK School of Public Health and has been on the national D.A.R.E. Board executive committee since 2014. 

Two bits, four bits, six bits a dollar, 

All for Dickie stand up and holler. 

That can happen at the April 24 induction at the Holiday Inn Downtown. Tickets are still available at bolton alumni.org/winfame

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The City of Pineville Parks and Recreation Department has announced updated operating hours for Kees Park in conjunction with the upcoming daylight saving time change.

Beginning Monday, March 9, Kees Park will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

City officials said the extended evening hours are intended to give residents more time to enjoy the park as spring approaches. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of the longer daylight hours to spend time outdoors at the facility.

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By Journal Staff

A federal law now allows workers to take a limited emergency withdrawal from their 401(k) retirement accounts without paying the traditional 10% early withdrawal penalty.

The provision, included in the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, took effect in 2024 and is intended to help Americans address sudden financial emergencies without facing penalties normally associated with early retirement withdrawals.

Under the law, eligible workers may withdraw up to $1,000, depending on account balance, per year from their 401(k) accounts for qualifying emergency expenses.

Workers under age 59½ who face an immediate financial need may qualify. Eligible expenses include unexpected medical costs, urgent home repairs, transportation problems and other sudden personal or family financial hardships.

Plan participants are allowed to self-certify that the withdrawal qualifies as an emergency expense, meaning plan administrators generally do not require detailed documentation.

Penalty waived, taxes may apply

The law eliminates the 10% early withdrawal penalty that normally applies to retirement distributions taken before age 59½. However, the withdrawal may still be subject to regular income taxes depending on the individual’s tax situation. Financial professionals often advise workers to consult a tax adviser before taking a withdrawal.

Repayment option available

Workers who take the emergency distribution may repay the withdrawn funds within three years. Repayment restores the funds to the retirement account and limits the long-term impact on retirement savings.

Workers who do not repay the withdrawal generally cannot take another emergency withdrawal under the provision until the three-year window has elapsed or the amount is repaid in full.

Not all plans required to offer it

Although the provision is part of federal law, employers are not required to adopt it. Some retirement plans may choose not to offer the emergency withdrawal option. Workers interested in the program should contact their employer, human resources department or plan administrator to determine whether the option is available.

A limited safety valve, with caveats

Supporters of the change say the provision offers workers facing sudden expenses a narrow financial lifeline while avoiding the full penalties normally tied to early withdrawals. Financial advisers caution that tapping retirement savings should still be considered a last resort, as early withdrawals can reduce long-term retirement income.

What workers should do now

As employers update their retirement plans to comply with new federal rules, more workers may gain access to the emergency withdrawal option. Experts recommend reviewing plan details and consulting a financial professional before making any decisions about withdrawing retirement funds.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional before making retirement account decisions.

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Students from Tioga High School’s Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program earned multiple top placements at the recent Louisiana Career Development Conference, where JAG programs from across the state competed in a variety of skill-based events.

The Rapides Parish JAG programs demonstrated strong performances in categories including public speaking, creative decision making, community service projects, financial literacy, career development and financial budgeting.

Several Tioga students brought home first-place finishes. Laynee Gibbs earned first place in Public Speaking, while Caylee Harrell secured first place in Financial Literacy.

The Tioga team known as the “J Crew,” made up of Jordan Bennett, Jaden Myles, Jaylen Reed and James Waller, also captured first place in the Creative Decision Making competition.

Additional honors went to Cyira Barbay and Peyton Polk, who placed third in the Community Service Projects category.

School officials said the students’ achievements highlight the strength of the Tioga High School JAG program and their ability to compete successfully at the state level.

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LDWF requests bass anglers to submit tournament results for 2026 season

As the 2026 bass tournament season gets underway, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is requesting all bass anglers and tournament organizers to submit their tournament results to the Louisiana Annual Tournament Report and Information Project (LATRIP).

LATRIP is a voluntary reporting program that collects bass tournament data to help LDWF biologists, tournament organizers, and anglers better understand fishing trends and improve management of Louisiana’s fisheries. The information provided assists LDWF in working to enhance bass fishing opportunities across the state.

Tournament results can be submitted, and additional information about the program can be found at http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/latrip.

LATRIP was developed to:

• Gather useful information for both LDWF and bass anglers
• Build strong relationships and open communication with bass fishing organizations
• Provide an efficient, low-cost method to track long-term angling success
• Promote and support Louisiana’s quality fisheries

The project is modeled after similar successful bass tournament reporting programs in Arkansas and Mississippi. Participation from Louisiana anglers is essential to ensure the program’s long-term success.

LDWF is especially seeking tournament data from waterbodies such as False River, Chicot Lake, Vernon Lake, Indian Creek Reservoir, Saline-Larto, Lake Bruin, and Lake St. John. Anglers are encouraged to access the 2025 LATRIP report at wlf.louisiana.gov/page/latrip to see which lakes and rivers are currently represented.

Tournament anglers who do not see their favorite waterbody listed are encouraged to speak with their tournament director or submit results directly through the LATRIP online portal to ensure their lake or river is included.

For additional information regarding LATRIP contact Jeff Sibley LDWF Biologist Manager at jsibley@wlf.la.gov or 318- 371-5294.

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The most exciting day of high school basketball this season for Rapides Parish is today, with the Menard girls playing for a state championship in Hammond and four boys teams bidding for state tournament berths with playoff games tonight – including a battle between two of them.

ASH, Peabody and Plainview host boys state quarterfinal games tonight, with the Trojans’ contest extra spicy as Tioga crosses the Red River to visit.

At stake are berths at next week’s Marsh Madness state tournament in Lake Charles.

Today at 4 in Hammond, the fourth-seeded Menard Lady Eagles will count on their smothering defense as they take on No. 2 Rosepine for the Select Division III state championship. Menard (23-7) held top-seeded Lafayette Christian to 14 second-half points Tuesday and rallied from 18 down to score a 45-43 upset over the five-time defending state champions.

Rosepine (26-7) handled Academy of the Sacred Heart 56-44 in the second semifinal Tuesday.

Thursday at the University Center, Buckeye’s run to Marsh Madness was stopped by top-seeded Madison Prep, 44-38. The fifth-seeded Lady Panthers got 17 points and 8 rebounds from Libby Cross and Sadie St. Pe’ contributed 10 points before fouling out.

Rapides Parish basketball teams in the state playoffs Thursday and today:

GIRLS SELECT DIVISION II SEMIFINAL

Madison Prep 44, Buckeye 38 (Thursday at Hammond)

GIRLS SELECT DIVISION III CHAMPIONSHIP

Menard (seeded 4^th) vs. Rosepine (2), 4:00, University Center, Hammond

BOYS SELECT DIVISION I

Quarterfinal matchup: Tioga (7) at ASH (2), 7:00

BOYS SELECT DIVISION II

Quarterfinal matchup: University Lab (7) at Peabody (2), 6:00

BOYS CLASS C

Quarterfinal matchup: Singer (11) at Plainview (3), 6:00

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Residents across Louisiana are reminded to set their clocks forward one hour before going to bed Saturday night as Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 8.

The time change officially takes effect at 2 a.m. Sunday, when clocks move forward to 3 a.m., resulting in an hour of lost sleep but extended daylight in the evenings.

Daylight Saving Time is observed across most of the United States and is intended to make better use of daylight during the warmer months. The change means sunrise and sunset will occur later in the day through the spring and summer.

Officials often encourage residents to use the time change as a reminder to check smoke detector batteries, review emergency plans and update safety supplies in their homes.

Daylight Saving Time will remain in effect until Nov. 1, when clocks will “fall back” one hour.

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Tyra Crews Paul, age 49, passed from this life on March 3, 2026 in Dandridge, Tennessee.

Mrs. Paul was born in Alexandria, Louisiana to Charles and Audrey Crews of Deville, Louisiana. Growing up, she attended school at Buckeye which is where she met the love of her life, James Paul. They married on July 14, 1995 and were inseparable throughout their 30 years of marriage; the perfect image of true love. Together they had two beautiful daughters, Alyssa and Ellen. Tyra loved her little family with everything she had in her and that love only grew when she gained two grandsons, Asher and Audric. She was the world’s best wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She made everyone she met feel special. She was so selfless in the way that she loved and cared for those around her. There could never be adequate words to describe how admired she was by everyone who knew her.

Tyra is survived by her husband, James Paul; father, Charles Crews; daughters, Alyssa and Ellen Paul; brothers, Bruce Dyer and Harlan Crews; grandchildren, Asher and Audric Bordelon; best friend, Lynette Moore, and a host of family and friends.

She is preceded in death by her mother; Audrey Crews, grandparents; James and Ruby Crews and Claudie and Nettie Aymond; aunt, Helen Dyer and sisters-in-law, Lynette Dyer and Dr. Julie Porter Crews.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

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Funeral services for Mr. John Darrel Israel, Sr. will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Taylon Hunt officiating. Interment will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens, Woodworth, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Israel, 68, of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria, LA.

Mr. John Israel passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work, service, and devotion to family and friends. He was the owner of Crossroads from 1991 to 2010, where he built lasting relationships and made a meaningful impact on those around him.

John was a proud and active member of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), serving as president for one term. A skilled journeyman plumber and master gas fitter, he also held a medical gas certification. His talents extended far beyond one trade, he was also an electrician, AC technician, mechanic, and teacher. There seemed to be nothing he couldn’t fix. If an air conditioner stumped everyone else, John would find a way to make it run again.

He didn’t just have customers, he had friends. John was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. If you needed help, he was there without hesitation. His generosity and willingness to serve others defined both his career and his character.

John was also a member of the Cosmopolitan Club and had a deep interest in politics. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was known as a great cook, often bringing people together over a good meal. He loved Cajun music and enjoyed the simple pleasure of visiting with family and friends.

Above all, John cherished his family. While he valued time spent with friends and loved ones, nothing brought him more joy than being with his grandchildren. They were the light of his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Angela Israel; his parents, Hampton and Berthaline Israel; one grandson, Tyler Israel; one sister, Sally Chapman; and one brother, Ronald Ray Israel.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving wife of eleven years, Pam Israel of Alexandria; his children, John Israel, Jr. of Pineville, Missy Israel of Pineville, Candy Israel Mayer (Marty) of Pineville, Michael Austin (Kara) of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Christina Dyer (Jeremy) of Alexandria; one brother, Dennis Israel of Mamou; three sisters, Sheila Deshotel (Derryl) of Mamou, Roxy Christ (Scotty) of Mamou, and Helen Israel (Paul) of Mamou; eleven grandchildren, Ayden Sistrunk, Caryn Sistrunk, Anna Marie Israel, Jase Israel, Nicholas Austin, Jackson Austin, Leland Austin, Max Austin, Luke Melder, Ben Melder, and Lilly Duncan; and two great grandchildren.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until time of service.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Nicholas Austin, Luke Melder, Logan Christ, Benji Israel, Jackson Austin, and Leland Austin.

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Phonetic: /ab·struse/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

• difficult to understand; obscure.
  “an abstruse philosophical inquiry”
• Similar: obscure, arcane

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