The Louisiana Christian University football team makes its longest trip facing long odds, but the Wildcats have already exceeded expectations by getting into position to win a championship in coach Ben McLaughlin’s second season.

Saturday, the Wildcats (7-3, 6-1 in the Sooner Athletic Conference) can clinch a share of the SAC championship, with a chance of earning the conference’s automatic bid to the NAIA Football Championship Series.

They are headed to Surprise, Ariz., to take on the NAIA’s 11^th-ranked team, Ottawa. Kickoff against the Spirit (8-0, 7-0 SAC) is set for 7 p.m. MST/8 p.m. CST from Spirit Field.

The Wildcats have won three in a row. Their only SAC loss came Oct. 11 at Texas Wesleyan, 61-28. Last week Ottawa outlasted TWU 42-35.

LCU has come a long way since last year’s 4-7 season. The latest landmark came Monday when freshman safety Kylon Polk was named the NAIA’s National Defensive Player of the Week

Polk, a freshman safety from Loreauville, intercepted four passes, one of which he returned 53 yards for a touchdown, during last Saturday’s 77-6 win over Arkansas Baptist.
 
Three of Polk’s four interceptions came during the first half, two in the first quarter and one in the second. The 53-yard pick-six, his final interception of the day, came with 4:23 left in the third quarter.
 
Polk earned the program’s first national football weekly award since LCU moved to the NAIA for the start of the 2021-22 academic year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phonetic: /tran(t)SH/
Part of Speech: noun

Definition

1. a portion of something, especially money.
   “they released the first tranche of the loan”

Similar: slice, part, portion, segment, or share

Origin: Old French

By JIM BUTLER

To many in these parts an Italian-themed dinner without wine is like rice without gravy.

They can rest easy – The Olive Garden has applied for a liquor permit.

Notice of its petition was made Wednesday, exactly two months, according to its website, before the restaurant is now scheduled to open in Alexandria.

The eatery’s decision to locate here apparently fulfills one slot on the bucket lists of many parish and surrounding area gourmands.

Franchisers’ decision back in March to locate on South MacArthur Drive was hailed by many as an end to a long-held gastronomic search.

The building formerly housing Johnny Carina’s was demolished, making way for a new one to house Olive Garden.

Applicants for the liquor permit are Lindsay Koren, manager-president, and Colleen Lyons, manager- secretary-treasurer, Olive Garden Holdings LLC.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permit/Detour section:

No detours are associated with this project.

Safety Reminder:

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

Additional Information:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NATCHITOCHES — Behind-the-scenes stories recounting the filming of the 1989 box office hit movie “Steel Magnolias,” shot on location in Natchitoches, will be shared Thursday evening at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum at 800 Front Street in Louisiana’s oldest city.

“Steel Magnolias Memories with Tom Whitehead and Friends” from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Natchitoches museum (800 Front Street) includes a reception and panel discussion about 6:45 with audience participation, sharing memories of the beloved classic film with a star-studded cast.

Whitehead, a now-retired journalism professor at Northwestern State University, was the second local person hired by the production company, assisting in logistics and hosting the stars in the cast throughout their stays in Natchitoches.

He will be joined on the panel by other locals who were involved in the production – Bill Brent, Sandra Dickens, Ed Ward – and Shreveport entertainment writer Maggie Martin. 

Tickets at the door are $20 for the public, $10 for NSU students, and free for FLASH members. Enjoy complimentary refreshments during the event.

The event is a fundraiser for FLASH, Friends of Louisiana Sports and History, the local support group for the museum, which is part of the Louisiana State Museum system.

Written by Natchitoches native Robert Harling Jr. and immediately a smash hit on Broadway, “Steel Magnolias”  was adapted for the screen just two years later and featured the breakout performance by future Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts, alongside Oscar winners Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine and Olympia Dukakis, superstar entertainer and actress Dolly Parton, and Daryl Hannah, with acclaimed actors Tom Skerritt and Dylan McDermott in key supporting roles.

The comedy/drama continues to resonate four decades later, inspiring thousands of stage adaptations around the world and a 2012 Lifetime Network movie remake, and is treasured for its themes of friendship and reliance and its portrayal of Southern small-town charm.

Harling wrote about the life and 1985 passing of his sister, Susan Harling Robinson, a young mother who died from complications with diabetes. 

After he persuaded TriStar Pictures executives to shoot the movie in Natchitoches, the production was a seminal event for the community, with many locals working behind the scenes and appearing as extras or even with small speaking parts in the film. Its release and reception sparked a stream of visitors to Natchitoches to see the film’s location and soak in the ambiance of the city, a phenomenon that continues today.

For more information or to join FLASH, call the museum at 318-357-2492. It is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. with modest admission prices topping out at $6.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Nov. 12

Kentavious Artel Baines, 24, Pineville – attempted second-degree murder, probation violation, $500,000 bail.

Nov. 11

Misty Marie Hastings, 34, Ball – theft, $1,000 bail;

Dorian Oashea Lacour, 31, Alexandria – possession of CDS, safety belt violation, possession of CDS, $100 bail;

Bobby Leonard, 47, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, safety belt violation, following too close, improper lane usage, $300 bail;

John Fitzgerald Marshall, 54, Alexandria – create distribute possession with intent counterfeit CDS, failure to secure registration, failure to yield emergency vehicle, switched license plate, improper inspection, safety belt violation, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, reckless operation of a vehicle, running a stop sign, $21,600 bail;

Charles Elvin Mathis, 46, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, disturbing the peace, $2,000 bail;

Jarrod Heath McNeal, 43, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, resisting an officer, open container state law, driving under suspension, display of temporary registration license plates, probation violation, $800 bail;

John Oliver Perkins III, 28, Boyce – possession of fentanyl, Louisiana fugitive, three counts contempt of court, $80,000 bail;

Antoine Latrel Raymond, 20, Alexandria – six counts aggravated assault with a firearm, illegal discharge of weapon in subdivision, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, simple battery, $150,500 bail;

Kelvin Releford, 60, Colfax – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, obstruction of justice, intentional littering, possession of CDS, safety belt violation, possession of drug paraphernalia, $2,600 bail.

Nov. 10

Donald Ray Ates Jr., 35, Ball – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of marijuana, parole violations, $500 bail;

Denzel Deron Daily, 31, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Damichael Darrel Deal, 18, Pineville – attempted armed robbery, theft, two counts criminal conspiracy, aggravated assault with a firearm, domestic abuse battery strangulation, criminal damage to property, $321,000 bail;

Damichael Damon Drane, 23, Boyce – three counts contempt of court, two counts failure to appear, $27,000 bail;

Robbie Fountain, 33, Winnfield – possession of firearm by convicted felon, misrepresentation during booking, Louisiana fugitive, $100,500 bail;

Odyesr Earl Lasyone Jr., 45, Pollock – attempted first degree murder, resisting an officer, Louisiana fugitive, $1,000,500 bail;

Kyle Hart Lawrence, 37, Pineville – possession of CDS, legend drug possession, paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, parole violations, $12,500 bail;

Quantavious Jamar Richards, 30, Alexandria – second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, two counts producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, simple battery, two counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, three counts possession of firearm by convicted felon, three counts Louisiana fugitive, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, resisting an officer, obstruction of justice, illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $2,000 bail.

Nov. 9

Moses Maine Jacobs, 46, Arlington, Texas – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Orlando Kendal Jones, 42, Pineville – cruelty to juveniles, parole violations, $10,000 bail;

Robert Taylor, 31, Pineville – aggravated second degree battery, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $150,000 bail.

Vera Helen Jackson Alexander, 73 of Alexandria, entered eternal rest peacefully at her residence on the evening of Thursday, November 6, 2025. She was born on May 28, 1952.

Ms. Alexander is survived by her devoted daughter, Demetra D. Lemons; three siblings, Donna Faye Hughes, Donald Ray Jackson, and Angela D. Harper; five grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish her memory.

Funeral services celebrating Ms. Alexander’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Pilgrim Baptist Church, located at 410 Solomon Street, Alexandria, Louisiana, 71302. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m.

Ms. Alexander will be fondly remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the love she shared with all who knew her.

Marjorie Rodgers Dexter departed this life, Wednesday, November 5, 2025 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana at the age of 85. Ms. Dexter was a resident of Boyce, Louisiana and a native of Colfax, LA.

She attended school in Colfax, Louisiana and graduated from Mary E. Graham High School. She received a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Grambling State University in 1962 and a Masters in Elementary Education from Louisiana State University.

A dedicated, inspirational and effective educator, Ms. Dexter cared deeply about her students in a unique way. The love developed between them were lasting and many remained in regular contact whether near or far. Ms. Dexter was employed by the Rapides Parish School Board for twenty-six years having worked at South Alexandria Elementary, Boyce Elementary and Northwood High School.

She was the most giving mother figure, daughter, sister, friend and woman. Her compassionate nature compelled her to participate in countless good-hearted deeds. She always had time to help others in addition to taking care of her family. If you were ever having a bad day, you could always dial her number for an inspirational message to lift you up.

Celebration of Life will be held, Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Matthew Baptist Church – 5605 Old Boyce Rd., Boyce, LA 71409 with visitation from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.

Arrangements entrusted to:
Hall Davis & Sons Funeral Services
9348 Scenic Highway
Baton Rouge, LA 70807

The City of Pineville has announced that Dr. Mark Johnson, President of Louisiana Christian University (LCU), will serve as Grand Marshal for the 2025 Pineville Christmas Parade.

Dr. Johnson, who became the 10th president of LCU earlier this year, has quickly become a prominent figure in Central Louisiana. His selection as Grand Marshal highlights the strong and lasting connection between the city and Louisiana Christian University, which has been a cornerstone of the Pineville community for more than a century.

Mayor Joe Bishop said Dr. Johnson’s leadership reflects the spirit of partnership that defines the city and its historic university. He praised LCU as a vital economic engine, cultural hub, and training ground for future community leaders.

Founded in 1906 as Louisiana College, LCU has long contributed to Pineville’s growth through its academic programs, local engagement, and campus activities. The university continues to play an important role in the city’s economy, workforce development, and cultural life.

Dr. Johnson expressed gratitude for the honor and emphasized his personal and professional ties to the community. He noted that his family is deeply rooted in Pineville, with his children attending local schools and the university.

The Pineville Christmas Parade will take place on December 12 at 7 p.m., officially opening the city’s holiday season and celebrating the partnership between Louisiana Christian University and the City of Pineville.

Four members of the Pineville High School band represented their school with pride this past weekend at the 2025 Big Easy Band Fest, held at Loyola University in New Orleans.

Students Holland, Shelby, Zach, and Dakota spent the weekend working alongside talented musicians and learning from top clinicians, including Colonel John R. Bourgeois, USMC (Ret.), the former conductor of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.

The Pride of Pineville Parent Club commended the students for their dedication, musicianship, and commitment to excellence.