According to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the speed limit on a portion of the Pineville Expressway is increasing from 50 MPH to 60 MPH. Installation of the new speed limit signs is expected to begin this week.

The Pineville Police Department confirmed that officers will continue to enforce the speed limit following the change. Department officials noted they are hopeful the adjustment puts the debate regarding the area being a speed trap to rest, following past assertions that raising the limit would resolve traffic issues.

With the higher limit in place, officials emphasized that the responsibility lies on drivers to pay attention to traffic control signs and obey the posted speed limits. Drivers are reminded to drive safely, remain attentive, and enjoy the extra 10 MPH where it is posted.

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The 2025-2026 LEAP results are in, revealing that 40% of Rapides Parish students in grades 3-12 scored Mastery or Advanced. This represents a two-point increase, marking the highest percentage on record for the district and placing it four points above the state average of 36%.

These outcomes represent the first LEAP results released under Louisiana’s new accountability system, Grow. Achieve. Thrive. The new system places a greater emphasis on student growth, Mastery level achievement, support for struggling students, and readiness for life after high school.

Superintendent Jeff Powell praised the district’s performance and the collective effort behind the milestone.

“We continue to celebrate record breaking student achievement growth in Rapides Parish,” Powell said. “Seeing a growth in overall proficiency and continuing to exceed average proficiency in the state is a testament to the hard work of our students, teachers, parents, school administrators and everyone else who supports the work of our students and teachers. The commitment of the Rapides Parish School Board members to align our policies and budgets with student achievement continues to yield positive outcomes.”

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Two women have been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred July 4 in the Grundy Cooper Subdivision in Alexandria, according to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded at approximately 4:34 p.m. to the 5400 block of Hall Street after receiving reports of shots fired in the area.

When deputies arrived, they found a male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound lying in the driveway of a residence. Pafford Ambulance Service transported him to a local hospital.

Deputies also learned that another male, later identified as Kendrick Dotson, had sustained gunshot wounds. According to investigators, Dotson was taken to the hospital by a neighbor before deputies arrived but later died from his injuries. The other shooting victim remained hospitalized in stable condition at the time of the release.

Sheriff’s detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to investigate. During the investigation, detectives determined that two women, identified as Samauria Norris and Lakeisha Roberts, came to a residence in the 5401 block of Hall Street, where a verbal disturbance occurred with Dotson. Investigators said another male arrived shortly afterward, and gunfire erupted between the two men.

Based on the investigation, detectives established probable cause to obtain arrest warrants for Norris and Roberts. Both women were taken into custody later that night without incident and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

Norris, 25, of 2239 East Sycamore in Alexandria, is charged with criminal conspiracy, obstruction of justice and second-degree murder. She remains in custody on a $1,200,000 bond.

Roberts, 42, of 6101 North Bolton, Lot 99, Alexandria, is charged with criminal conspiracy and second-degree murder. She remains in custody on a $1,100,000 bond.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional arrests are possible.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Matthew Deville with the Criminal Investigation Division at 318-473-6727, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s 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.

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At approximately 11:10 AM, Patrol Deputies responded to a report of a medical emergency at a residence in the 1400 block of Bayou Maria Road in Pineville.  Upon arrival, Deputies located a deceased male subject and cause of death is unknown at this time.

Sheriff’s Detectives and Crime Scene Unit have responded to conduct their investigation.  As soon as the scene is clear, the remains of the deceased will be turned over to the Rapides Parish Coroner’s Office, pending autopsy and toxicology results.

Sheriff’s Detectives say this is an active investigation and if anyone has any information on this investigation, they are asked to contact RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

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By JIM BUTLER

It’s chicken or the egg, regulatory version.

The Public Service Commission August 12 docket includes authorization of the Cleco ownership change.

At the same session the Pineville-housed utility is asking for expedited treatment of its petition for rate changes effective next July 1 under a new Formula Rate Plan.

Particulars as to the rate changes requested and estimated revenue as a result are not yet public record.

The Cleco sale to Pine JV Holdings was announced in late April. Stonepeak and Bernard Capital Partners Management are the buyers.

Several documents have been filed with regard to the change.

Among support testimony received by the PSC is that of Kristen Guillory, Cleco CFO.

She notes in her June 15 statement that the buyers have access to the significant capital amounts required over multiple investment cycles entering a significant reinvestment period requiring sustained capital deployment across generating, transmission, distribution and storm hardening needs.

Interested party notices have been filed by two entities in the matter.

Alliance for Affordable Energy is a New Orleans-based nonprofit advocate for electric ratepayers.

Its entry says it intends to participate in the proceeding “to protect interests of residential and small commercial customers.”  

Packing Corporation of America is also an official party of interest PCA, headquartered in the Midwest, and notes its DeRidder container board mill is one of the utility’s largest customers and thus it has a compelling stake in the matter.

Cleco provides electricity service to more than 300,000 customers in 24 parishes.

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Downtown Alexandria was the place to be for star spangled family fun as the City of Alexandria hosted the Rockin’ the Red celebration for our nation’s 250^th birthday on July 4.  Children had their own play area that included inflatables and a massive water slide. An old fashioned cake walk featured Independence Day themed cakes as prizes. Food trucks filled the air with delicious aromas from a variety of cuisines while DJ Tony Groove kept the crowd’s spirits up in between musical acts.

Rockin’ the Red featured two superb local bands. Demetrius Victor and the Association of Musical Artistry kicked off the festivities with a selection of patriotic favorites, to include a wonderful rendition of the National Anthem by a young man that would have done justice to a much older singer. The youngster has a bright future as a performer!

The crowd was then treated to a flyby of WWII era aircraft before Alexandria’s Wellness Check Band took the stage with a high energy set of music. Of course, no July 4^th celebration is complete without fireworks, and Rockin’ the Red did not disappoint. The massive fireworks show filled the sky with light and an artillery barrage worth of explosions. Rockin’the Red was an evening of quality family fun that celebrated the 250^th birthday of our great nation in grand style.

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By R. Blake Chatelain, President and CEO of Red River Bank, Alexandria, Louisiana

If you’ve ever received a call, text, email, or direct message that just didn’t feel right, you’re not alone. Every week, customers walk into our branches asking whether an urgent payment request they received was real or a scam. For many, that moment of doubt comes minutes before sharing their account details. For some, it unfortunately comes after they’ve already been scammed.

In Louisiana, fraud is not an abstract problem. In 2024 alone, residents reported approximately 20,534 scam incidents totaling close to $90 million in losses, with a median loss of $425 per victim.

At banks like Red River Bank, protecting customers from fraud isn’t optional. We monitor accounts and advise customers when something doesn’t look right. We do this because we know how quickly scams can escalate, and because we see up close the emotional distress and financial devastation these events cause.

The problem is that many scams don’t start in a bank account. They begin with fake social media ads, spoofed phone numbers, and deceptive messages to trick people before money ever moves. By the time a bank intervenes, the scammer may already have convinced someone to act. That delay is where real harm happens.

That’s why it makes sense to stop scams earlier. More than three-quarters of Americans support tougher rules requiring social media platforms and telecom providers to do more to stop fraud at the source. People want responsibility shared across the system, not placed on consumers alone.

The SCAM Act helps move us in that direction. It strengthens tools to prevent caller ID spoofing, improves accountability for scam related messages, and helps close gaps scammers rely on. Importantly, it helps stop fraud without interfering with legitimate alerts that help keep consumers safe. It is a practical step that matches the scale of the problem.

Banks will continue to protect customers and monitor fraud, but fraud has become too widespread and sophisticated for any one sector to tackle alone. Passing the SCAM Act would help protect families, seniors, and small businesses before scammers ever reach them. Please join us in urging Congress to pass the SCAM Act.

That’s a critical step for now.

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Members of the Woodworth Police Department recently joined the community in support of Special Olympics Louisiana through the annual Tip A Cop fundraising event.

Chief Brett Masters and Officer Marisol Patino participated in the event on July 2, helping raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Louisiana.

Town officials thanked everyone who attended and contributed to the fundraiser, saying the community’s support helped make the event a success.

The Tip A Cop program brings together law enforcement officers and local restaurants to raise money for Special Olympics programs, which provide year-round sports training and athletic competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

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The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred Saturday evening in the 5000 block of Hall Street in the Grundy Cooper Subdivision.

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to reports of a shooting and found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

One victim was transported to a local hospital by Pafford Ambulance Service, while the second victim was taken to a hospital by a private citizen. The conditions of both victims have not been released.

Sheriff’s detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to the scene and are continuing the investigation by collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Authorities said there is no threat to the public at this time.

Anyone with information related to the shooting is encouraged to contact the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867. No additional information has been released as the investigation remains ongoing.

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The Pineville Police Department is recognizing three officers for their professionalism and teamwork in peacefully resolving an incident involving an armed person in crisis.

According to the department, officers responded to a call involving an individual experiencing a crisis. Upon arrival, they encountered an armed person and immediately secured the scene.

Sgt. Dean and Pfc. Sanchez established and maintained calm, consistent communication with the individual while waiting for a crisis negotiator to arrive.

Lt. Daenen, serving as the department’s crisis negotiator, joined responding personnel in working to de-escalate the situation. Police said the officers demonstrated composure, sound judgment, and compassion throughout the incident while coordinating their response under rapidly changing circumstances.

The department said the situation was resolved peacefully, with no injuries to the individual or any responding officers.

In recognizing the officers, the department noted that peaceful resolutions often receive little public attention but represent some of the most meaningful work performed by law enforcement. Officials said such outcomes can save lives, spare families from tragedy, and strengthen the community through the use of patience, compassion, and restraint.

The Pineville Police Department commended Lt. Daenen, Sgt. Dean, and Pfc. Sanchez for their actions, stating they exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, courage, and service while remaining committed to preserving life.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions

July 5

Brenda Adams, 64, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, $2,000 bail;

Cruz Gamino, 43, Forest Hill – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, open container, $1,300 bail;

Samauria Norris, 25, Alexandria – second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, obstruction of justice, $1.2 million bail;

Alejandro Pizano, 27, Forest Hill – OWI first offense, open container, $1,100 bail;

I’Yaisha Kiwunis Price, 29, Alexandria – theft, resisting an officer, eight counts contempt of court, $17,000 bail;

Lakeisha Lakedra Roberts, 42, Alexandria – second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, $1.1 million bail;

July 4

Javier Arteaga, 29, Forest Hill – OWI first offense, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, $3,000 bail;

D’Juan Keonte Benjamin, 25, Pineville – OWI first offense, possession of marijuana, $1,500 bail;

Mariah Greenhoward, 25, Pineville – criminal damage to property, disturbing the peace, simple assault, five counts contempt of court, $30,000 bail;

Jessie Mays, 59, Alexandria – OWI third offense, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, open container, speeding, $700 bail;

Jaso Edward Nolen, 45, Forest Hill – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $500 bail;

Dylan Nunez, 34, Kaplan – OWI second offense, $1,500 bail;

Donrion Ray Randall, 34, Bunkie – OWI second offense, fenders and mudguards, improper window tint, $1,700 bail;

Bobby Joe Roberts, 72, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, four counts contempt of court, $2,000 bail;

Jackson Mitchell Shelton, 18, Alexandria – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,100 bail;

Chad Michael Travis, 54, Alexandria – simple burglary, no bail data;

Stacy Edmonson Travis, 51, Alexandria – simple burglary, no bail data;

Zachary Walker, 27, Alexandria – OWI first offense, windshield required, $1,100 bail.

July 3

Lasharna S. Eggins, 55, Alexandria —  OWI first offense, open container, resisting an officer, $1,600 bail;

Abigal Lee Keeler, 43, Alexandria – interfering with emergency communication, two counts contempt of court, $10,500 bail;

Tyler Andre Tam, 33, Deville – simple burglary, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, simple burglary, resisting an officer, no bail data;

Lionell Taylor Jr., 46, Alexandria – criminal trespass, contempt of court, $2,500 bail.

July 2                        

Camille Demetrice Boyd, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, flight from an officer, obstruction of justice, illegal use of weapons, two counts contempt of court, $226,500 bail;

Justin Michael Cole, 26, Pineville – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Anthony Ray Dorsey Jr., 42, Alexandria – possession of CDS, $1,500 bail;

Rickey Farris, 66, Alexandria – insurance fraud, $1,000 bail;

Angelo Girtley, 57, Lecompte – attempted second degree murder, possession of firearm by a convicted felon, $1.1 million bail;

Shini Latoryrcee Jones, 36, Alexandria – four counts producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, three counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, $700,000 bail;

Darius Andre McMorris Sr., 30, Vidalia – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Tavis Shante Sanders, 32, Forest Hill – four counts producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, three counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, $1.1 million bail;

Carmelo Vargas, 26, Glenmora – aggravated resisting police officer with force or violence, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, simple robbery, disturbing the peace, $21,000 bail.

July 1

Derek Morris Colwell, 35, Pineville – four counts aggravated assault with a firearm, $20,000 bail;

Robert Drakes Jr., 49, Alexandria – four counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, three counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, three counts possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, $1.105 million bail;

Zhakaria Fulton, 24, Alexandria – reckless operation, two counts contempt of court, $8,500 bail;

Wendell Gerrard Gaston, 37, Alexandria – second degree battery, second degree kidnapping, no bail data;

Tren Justin Johnson, 30, Pineville – simple battery, simple burglary, theft, parole violations, contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Keldrick Dewone Mitchell, 40, Alexandria – third degree rape, $200,000 bail;

Keegan Bryce Vidrine, 35, Hineston – illegal use of weapons, domestic abuse battery, aggravated assault with a firearm, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, $40,000 bail;

Arthur Jamall Wallace, 36, Alexandria – first degree murder, attempted first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted second degree murder, $3 million bail.

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Funeral services for Mrs. Johnnie Belle Williams Bobbitt will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Bishop Anthony Mangun officiating. Interment will follow in Mars Hill Cemetery, Verda, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Johnnie Belle Williams Bobbitt, a cherished wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at the age of 88. Her life was a beautiful testament to love, resilience, and faith, and she touched the hearts of everyone blessed to know her. Throughout her life, she carried with her a warmth that drew people in and a kindness that left them changed.

Johnnie devoted her life to her family. She was the beloved wife of her late husband, Robert T. Bobbitt. She was a proud and loving mother to Darrell Lynn Chandler (deceased); Kathy Kupperschmid (Robert); and Jimmy Layne Chandler (deceased) (David Buriak) and step-mother to Rhonda Bobbitt Vercher, Angela Bobbitt Bennett and Camille Bobbitt Girouard (Kent). She was the most adoring Memaw to her grandchildren, Ariel Hooker, Devin Jackson, and Haley Hennings, and her step-grandchildren, Audrey Stanley, Jessica Stanley Mahana (Josh), Lauren Stanley, Megan Bobbitt, Aubron Thomas, Eric Kupperschmid and Justin Kupperschmid; as well as her five treasured great-grandchildren: Remy Hooker, Mara Hooker, Ingrid Hennings, Roxy Jackson, and Cid Jackson.

Her home was always a safe haven, filled with the smell of her cooking and the comfort of her prayers. She was known for her prowess in the kitchen, always making each visitor a special cake or pie. She loved working in her yard and made it the envy of the neighborhood. She gave selflessly, always putting the needs of others before her own, and she leaves behind a legacy of compassion and unwavering love.

She raised her family in Montgomery, Louisiana, where they were active members of Montgomery Pentecostal Church. In 1994, she married Robert T. Bobbitt, and they made their home in Center, Texas, for more than ten years, where she faithfully served at the First United Pentecostal Church of Center. She later moved to Alexandria, Louisiana, where she was a devoted member of The Pentecostals of Alexandria.

She retired from Walmart in 1994, after more than fifteen years as a District Manager in the Jewelry Department. After moving to Center, Texas, she worked part-time in the school cafeteria.

Those left to mourn are her daughter, Kathy A. Kupperschmid (Robert); her grandchildren, Ariel Jackson Hooker (Andrew), Devin Jackson (Rebecca), Haley Jackson Hennings, Eric Kupperschmid (Diana), and Justin Kupperschmid (Jennifer); sixteen great-grandchildren; her sister, Shirley R. Mabry; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved parents, John Henry Williams and Ruth Alma Hodnett Williams; her husband, Robert T. Bobbitt; her two sons, Darrell Chandler and Jimmy Chandler; and her sister, Arlene Croom.

She leaves a hole in all our hearts, until we meet again.

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Services for Antoine Batiste will be at 11:00am on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Mount Triumph Baptist Church, 2200 Third Street, Alexandria, LA. Pastor Randy Harris will be officiating. Interment will be in Alexandria Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Antoine Batiste, affectionately known as “Pops,” “Bat,” “Batman,” “Paw Paw,” “Antwine,” “Captain,” and simply “Batiste,” peacefully departed this life on June 27, 2026, at the age of 74. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, service, strength, and unconditional love for his family.

Born on February 26, 1952, in Pineville, Louisiana, Antoine was the son of Irma Howardand Major Batiste. During his formative years, he and his siblings were lovingly raised by their father until his passing in 1965, when Antoine was just thirteen years old. Following that loss, he was nurtured and guided by his sisters, Velma Batiste Lusk and Marjorie Batiste Kennedy, his beloved Aunt Arlene, and his brothers, James L. Batiste and Samuel Howard Batiste, whose love and support helped shape the man he would become.

Antoine attended Lincoln Road Elementary School, Peabody High School, and Bolton High School. In 1970, he proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. During his military service, he completed basic training at Camp Pendleton, California, and was stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Okinawa, Japan, and Twenty-Nine Palms, California.

One of Antoine’s favorite stories reflected his determination. After making a friendly bet with his oldest son that he would return to finish high school, he kept his word and earned his diploma while serving in the Marines—proving that no goal was ever beyond reach.

During this same period, he married the love of his life, Brenda Sue Fields of Alexandria, Louisiana. Their union became the foundation of a marriage that endured for more than fifty years, built on commitment, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to family.

Following his honorable service in the Marine Corps, Antoine worked as a commercial bus driver before once again answering the call to military service, this time with the United States Army. He was stationed at Finthen Army Airfield in West Germany, proudly serving his nation abroad. Upon returning home to Alexandria, he continued serving by joining the United States Army Reserve, where he became a respected Drill Sergeant, serving alongside his brother, James L. Batiste.

Antoine also began a distinguished career with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office in Corrections. Through hard work, integrity, and exceptional leadership, he rose through the ranks to become Warden and Captain before retiring after years of dedicated public service. Captain Batiste took tremendous pride in his profession. He earned the respect of his fellow officers and was admired for treating every individual in his care with dignity, fairness, and compassion. He understood that while people sometimes make mistakes, every person deserved respect.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Antoine embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid golfer and tennis player who also loved fishing, old-school R&B, blues, and funk music. He was a passionate cigar aficionado, an avid collector of vinyl records and CDs, and had an unmistakable appreciation for men’s fashion. Whether dressed for work, church, or an evening out, Antoine believed in presenting himself with dignity and excellence. He was a loyal friend, trusted mentor, and a man whose presence could light up any room.

Above all else, Antoine loved his family. Together, Antoine and Brenda raised three sons who proudly carry forward his legacy: Antoine Dion Batiste, Taurus Jamar Batiste, and Demetrio Jayme Batiste. He also cherished Misty Pemberton (Michael) of Detroit, Michigan, as part of his extended family.

He was the proud grandfather of Aniya Carbo; Jada (Salam) Dier of Palestine; Terrick A. Batiste of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Anisty Batiste of Pineville, Louisiana; Taurus Batiste II; Demetrio Batiste Jr.; Jamara Batiste; DaMiya Batiste; Khloe Batiste; and Delawrence Batiste.

His greatest joy continued through his great-grandchildren: Samara Rose Batiste; Sebastian Emilio Rodriguez-Gomez; Alessia Guadalupe Rodriguez-Gomez; and Jada Salam Saleh-Jada.

Antoine’s love extended beyond his immediate family. He deeply loved his nieces and nephews, including James Batiste, Major Lusk, Antoinette Kennedy, Michelle Kennedy, Robert Batiste, and Ronald Batiste, Sr., who preceded him in death.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Brenda Sue Batiste; his sons and their families; his brother, Samuel Howard Batiste (Ora); his beloved Aunt Arlene; Theresa Howard; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, fellow veterans, and former colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irma Howard and Major Batiste; his sisters, Marjorie Kennedy, Velma Lusk, and Annie Lee; his brother, James L. Batiste; and his nephew, Ronald Batiste, Sr.

Antoine Batiste devoted his life to serving others. He faithfully served the United States in both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army, honorably served the citizens of Rapides Parish as a correctional leader, and faithfully served his family as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He believed in hard work, discipline, accountability, and doing things the right way. Life presented him with many challenges, but he faced each one with determination, perseverance, and an unwavering “I can do it” attitude. He taught his children to value integrity, respect others, love their family, and never quit.

Today, we celebrate not only the life of an extraordinary man, but the lasting legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of honor, courage, service, and love.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Rest in eternal peace, Pops. Your watch is complete, but your legacy lives on forever.

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Phonetic: /ep·​i·​thet/

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition

characterizing word or phrase accompanying or occurring in place of the name of a person or thing

a disparaging or abusive word or phrase

the part of a taxonomic name identifying a subordinate unit within a genus

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As communities across the nation prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, 2026, Americans will also recognize a historic milestone: the 250th anniversary of the United States.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, setting in motion the creation of a new nation built on the ideals of liberty, self-government and opportunity. Two and a half centuries later, the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the generations who have shaped the country through service, sacrifice, innovation, perseverance and community.

The nation’s 250th birthday will be marked by fireworks, parades, family gatherings, patriotic programs and local celebrations. Beyond the traditions, the occasion serves as a reminder that America’s story continues to be written in neighborhoods, schools, businesses, churches, farms, military bases and communities across the country.

For many families, Independence Day is a time to gather around picnic tables, watch fireworks light up the summer sky and share stories across generations. It is also a time to honor those who have served to protect the freedoms celebrated each July Fourth.

As the United States enters its next chapter, the 250th anniversary stands as a moment to remember where the nation began, recognize the people who have carried its promise forward and look ahead with hope for the generations still to come.

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Mary Lynelle Ford
November 28, 1943 – July 1, 2026
Service: Friday, July 3, 2026, 10am at Greenwood Memorial Park Cemetery, Pineville.

Johnnie Belle Bobbitt
May 23, 1938 – June 30, 2026
Service: Monday, July 6, 2026, 11am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Derothy Littleton
July 19, 1932 – June 30, 2026
Service: Friday, July 3, 2026, 1pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mavis Corene Frantom
April 28, 1933 – June 28, 2026
Service: Friday, July 3, 2026, 1pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Gregory Martin Clark
June 12, 1957 – June 27, 2026
Service: Friday, July 10, 2026, 10am at St. James Memorial Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Jonathan Scarborough Forester, MD
May 22, 1948 – June 27, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 11, 2026, 11am at Kingsville Baptist Church, Pineville.

Mary Jo Loper Bazar
August 28, 1943 – June 26, 2026
Service: Sunday, July 19, 2026, 3pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball.

Rose Marie Bell Roberts
May 31, 1952 – June 25, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 18, 2026, 11am at The Citadel Church of God in Christ, Alexandria.

Joanne Sandra Stroud
April 8, 1942 – June 20, 2026
Service: Friday, July 3, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball.

Mathew Raymond Wilson, Jr.
July 23, 1950 – June 20, 2026
Service: Friday, July 10, 2026, 10am at Zion Hill Church Family, Pineville.

Curtis Lemott
July 21, 1936 – June 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, July 11, 2026, 10am at Lonestar Benevolent Society Cemetery #6, Pineville.

Brenda Sue White
December 14, 1958 – May 27, 2026
Service: Saturday, August 22, 2026, 11am at Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria.

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

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Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives have arrested a Lecompte man in connection with a shooting that left one person hospitalized in stable condition.

According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, patrol deputies responded around 10:15 p.m. on June 29 to assist the Lecompte Police Department following a shooting within the city limits of Lecompte.

Initial information indicated the victim suffered a single gunshot wound to the chest and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Sheriff’s detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to process the scene, collect evidence and interview witnesses. During the investigation, detectives determined that 57-year-old Angelo Girtley allegedly became involved in an altercation with the victim, shot the individual and fled the scene.

Working with the Lecompte Police Department, detectives obtained arrest warrants charging Girtley with attempted second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

On July 2, detectives located Girtley and took him into custody without incident. He was transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center, where he was booked on the outstanding warrants.

Girtley remains incarcerated on a $1.1 million bond.

The victim remains hospitalized and is listed in stable condition.

Authorities remind the public that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative proceeding.

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Diocese proposes reorganization plan

By JIM BUTLER

The Diocese of Alexandria proposes obligating up to about $4.8 million to resolve sexual abuse claims dating back to the 1970s.

Diocese counsel this week asked federal bankruptcy court in Shreveport to set an August 26 hearing on its proposal, one that establishes eight classifications of claims as well as how and when they would be settled.

Should the court agree the plan would be submitted to members of those classes for an acceptance vote, with ballots due by October 13 and a confirmation hearing of the count set on October 27.

That’s almost a year since the Diocese filed Chapter 11 last October 31.

The claims classifications included secured and unsecured creditors.

Loan agreements with two banks would be reworked, allowing some payment as well as modifying guarantees.

General convenience claims would be paid at 95% and general unsecured claims at 25%, the former within 60 days of resolution l, the latter 120 days.

Claims by putative abuse survivors and future such claims would fall under one of two alternates, depending on circumstances outlined in the voting process. Payments would be made as claims are resolved.

Under one alternate, $3 million cash would be placed in a trust and a note encumbrance of $2.4 million initiated.

Under the other, the diocese would pay to the trust its liquidation value – cash, real property, and a five-year maximum promissory note, or a combination of such.

The trust would be administered by Diocesan officials.

If the court determines the amount required to satisfy current putative claims exceeds $4.825 million the Diocese notes it may elect to withdraw the plan.

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