On those few occasions when I use a sports illustration in my sermon, just know I have worked hard to research and get my facts straight to make it relevant to the sermon of the day. Sport stats and stories do not roll off my tongue, but here is a little sports trivia I do know, the first year the Super Bowl was ever played was the same year my church established an arts festival -1967.

Now I have no idea why the Super Bowl was established except it is a good reason to eat tail gate food and gather with friends around the television to watch the commercials. However, the Arts Festival at First United Methodist Church was established to encourage the use of art as an expression of God’s creative spirit that dwells in all of us and as a means of adding art to the church’s permanent art collection. In 1980, the festival was renamed to honor the memory of Rev. Tom Peyton, a former associate pastor who made significant contributions to the Cenla art community.

This year the Tom Peyton Memorial Arts Festival kicks off on Friday, May 2 at 6:00 pm with the opening reception and award presentations as this is a juried art show with competitors from Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas and of course Louisiana, including the local area.

Other events include a special exhibit by photographer Jim Johnson, and a school art exhibit by local student artists running from May 2 to 11. On Sunday, May 4, Dr. Chris Holoman, President of Centenary College of Louisiana will be our guest speaker at 8:30 am and 11 am. Jazz on Jackson will take place in the courtyard off Jackson Street on Friday, May 9 from 6-8 with Modern Jazz Movement as our special guests. Children’s Day will feature author and storyteller Rob Butler. He will share his book “Saint Amant Max, The Cajun Puppy” with all the kids followed by Louisiana themed crafts and snacks. This will take place in the Johnson Center on Saturday, May 10 from 9-11 am and is limited to 50 children so be sure to stop by the festival to register. We are also offering a new event, an artist panel for students and youth on Friday, May 9 from 4:30 – 6 pm in the 50/50 room where area teens can explore ways to make art a career.

The exhibit itself will be open daily from the 10 am to 4 pm from May 2 – 11 and all exhibits and events are free and open to the public. Come enjoy this “super bowl” of art at First United Methodist Church of Alexandria (2727 Jackson St.)

On the journey,
Ramonalynn Bethley

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

BOM is a proud supporter of the Buckeye Dixie Youth organization. Pictured left to right: BOM’s Maranda Evans, Presley Perry, Hank Bryant, Reid McNeely, Ryder Perry, and BOM’s Mandy Futrell.

May 2 has been a date of notable historical significance. In 2011, U.S. forces killed Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the September 11 attacks, in a raid in Abbottabad, Pakistan. This event marked a pivotal moment in the global fight against terrorism.

In 1963, the Children’s Crusade took place in Birmingham, Alabama, where more than 1,000 Black schoolchildren marched in protest against segregation. The peaceful demonstration was met with violent resistance, drawing national attention to the civil rights movement and contributing to the eventual passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Additionally, May 2 is Polish National Flag Day, celebrating national pride and the country’s flag. The day honors the adoption of the national colors and serves as a reminder of Poland’s rich history and cultural heritage.

April 30

Marques Dcortez Joseph, 29, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing controlled dangerous substances, possession of controlled dangerous substances, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, drug paraphernalia, $2,000 bail.

April 29

Marcus De’Angelos Brown, 36, Alexandria – two counts Louisiana fugitive, four counts contempt of court, $65,000 bail;

Jacob Austin Davis, 31, Anacoco – possession of firearm by convicted felon, contempt of court, $500 bail;

Robert Drakes III, 21, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery on pregnant woman, domestic abuse battery with child present, Louisiana fugitive, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, $55,000 bail;

Sherterroca Ladrelle Henderson, 48, Alexandria – aggravated battery, probation violation, no bail data;

Corey Darnell Joseph Sr, 50, Lecompte – possession of controlled dangerous substance, contempt of court, $152,500 bail;

Roosevelt London Jr, 49, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Kenderick Donta Miles, 35, Forest Hill – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Laquisha Denise Mitchell, 38, Alexandria – five counts contempt of court, $25,000 bail;

Derrick Dewayn Pace, 44, Boyce — contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Debra Denice Quinney, 58, Alexandria – seven counts simple burglary, identity theft, simple escape, resisting an officer, 13 counts contempt of court, parole violations, $105,000 bail;

Corey Cortez Rosenthal, 54, Boyce – theft, simple burglary, obstruction of justice, criminal damage to property, no bail data;

Rayanne Elizabeth Vicknair, 27, Alexandria – contempt of court, $75,000 bail.

April 28

James Richard Barlow, 34, Ball – theft, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, impersonating a peace officer, $1,000 bail;

Alvin Ray Giddings, 56, Deville – first degree rape, resisting an officer, Louisiana fugitive, $100,500 bail;

Brent Thomas Laborde, 47, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, $1,000 bail;

Roy Lee Reed, 33, Lecompte – aggravated assault home invasion, misdemeanor sexual battery, $75,000 bail;

Demetri Da’Juan Robinson, 18, Alexandria – four counts second degree attempted murder, $2 million bail;

Larry David Stroud, 67, Pineville – aggravated battery, Louisiana fugitive, no bail data.

April 27

Kenneth Alan Ford Jr, 37, Glenmora – two counts possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, two counts illegal discharge of weapon in zoned subdivision, $1,000 bail;

Cory Mantae Miles, 35, Alexandria – criminal trespass, simple burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia, parole violations, $4,500 bail;

Hannah Morace, 34, Deville – domestic abuse battery with child present, $500 bail;

Christopher Brian Temple, 30, Pineville – domestic abuse battery strangulation, domestic abuse battery with child present, $6,000 bail.

The City of Pineville issued a reminder to its residents. City Ordinance Article 2, Sections 20-25 through 20-27 states that grass within city limits can’t exceed 10 inches. If a lawn is looking a little shaggy, the owner has 10 days to get it trimmed.

This reminder serves as a ten day notice from the city to its residents. No other notice shall be issued on this matter. 

Thomas O. Ryder was a junior at Bolton High School when LSU Alexandria opened its doors in 1960. This month he’ll be commencement speaker at university’s graduation ceremony. 

Ryder, a journalism graduate of LSU, is a member of its Alumni Hall of Fame and of the LSU Manship School of Mass Communication Hall of Fame. 

The Spring Commencement will be held May 15 at LaBorde Earles Coliseum. According to the university website no tickets are required to attend. The school awarded degrees to more than 1,100 over the course of 2024. 

Ryder, one of the initial inductees last year into Bolton’s Hall of Fame, had a distinguished career in magazine and book publishing, including serving as chairman and CEO of Reader’s Digest Association. 

He was president of three different America Express divisions over 15 years and on the board of several corporations, including almost 20 years as an Amazon director. 

Ryder is a recognized contributor to food and wine publications.

 His wine collection, which he began while at LSU (no Thunderbird included), became one of the nation’s best. Portions were sold by Sotheby’s early this century with proceeds going to a family foundation and subsequently benefiting many Louisiana organizations helping in the post-Katrina recovery. 

RYDER’s, a family-owned and operated, gourmet market in Vero Beach, FL,  is among his retirement ventures. 

The Rapides Parish 4-H will host its 1st annual livestock soiree and fundraising auction on Saturday, May 10, at the Alexandria Mega Shelter (8125 US 71-N). 

Guest speakers will take the stage at 5pm. The prime rib dinner will be served at 6pm. The live and silent auctions will follow dinner. Tickets are $50 a plate. Corporate table sponsorships are available. 

For tickets and information, call 318-767-3968.

Proceeds will benefit Rapides Parish Livestock Youth Development Program. 

Known as a celebration of spring, colors, and love, Holi is a time to welcome a new season and spread some joy: “It is a celebration of unity, equality, and love.” And this year, there is an added focus on community: United We Flourish. The public is invited to pursue the joining diverse communities together on Saturday, May 17, from 10am to 2pm, at Tamp & Grind Downtown.

The event will showcase Indian culture, diverse dances, and cuisine once again and pursue the mission of unity in diversity. The event will also benefit the Children’s Advocacy Network. It is family-oriented event that will feature henna, face painting, chalk art, and lot of other activities and fun for all age groups.

Admission is free, colors are free.

Come for a vibrant celebration of Holi, the Festival of Colors. The event will welcome spring and spread joy with laughter, music, and a kaleidoscope of hues. Register for the 4K Walk/Run. All proceeds benefit Children’s Advocacy Network in their pursuit to eradicate child abuse in Central Louisiana.

Registration is open now: http://rapidescac.kindful.com/e/holi-fest-2025

Prepare to be immersed in a whirlwind of colorful powders (gulal).

The Buckeye Panthers open an LHSAA baseball state quarterfinal best-of-three series at home today.

The No. 4 seeded Panthers (26-7), who won their third straight district championship, play host to fifth-seeded Vandebilt Catholic (25-11) in a Select Division II matchup. Buckeye is bidding for its first-ever state semifinal appearance in baseball.

Ironically, the Buckeye softball team also plays Vandebilt Catholic – Friday at 2 in Sulphur in the state semifinals.

After earning a first-round playoff bye, Buckeye blasted Kenner Discovery in two straight games at home last weekend in the regional round. The Terriers took out Willow School in their regional round series.

Class B parish rivals Glenmora and Grace Christian will meet in a regional round single-elimination contest Saturday.

Wednesday evening, third-seeded Maurepas eliminated No. 14 Plainview from the Class C playoffs.

Wednesday’s regional round score

Class C (single game, winner advances)

Maurepas 10, Plainview 1

Upcoming games

Select Division II quarterfinal series (best of three)

Vandebilt Catholic (5) at Buckeye (4), today 6:00, Friday 5:00, if necessary – Saturday 7:30

Class B (single game, winner advances)

Glenmora (seeded 9^th) vs. Grace Christian (8), Saturday, 3:00, Merrill Blackburn Field, England Air Park

The Rapides Parish Library (RPL) is proud to announce the addition of a new resource available at all branches: Sensory Backpacks, designed to support children with sensory sensitivities during their library visits.

Thanks to a generous donation from and partnership with CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Pediatric Therapy Center, made possible by a Children’s Miracle Network donation from Ace Hardware, RPL has received ten Sensory Backpacks to enhance the library experience for children who may be affected by conditions that heighten sensory experiences and awareness. The Cabrini Pediatric Therapy Center also provided comprehensive on-site staff training and educational videos to ensure continued understanding and support of sensory needs for Rapides Parish Library staff.

Each backpack contains a variety of tools to help children regulate sensory input and reduce anxiety, including:

• A compression vest to support calming and grounding
• Noise-canceling headphones to minimize auditory overload
• Two types of fidget tools to improve focus and relieve stress

These backpacks are available for in-library use only and can be found at the circulation desk of each library branch. To request one, an adult should speak with any library staff member and then complete the brief in-house checkout process.

Sensory backpacks offer several key benefits to patrons:

1. Reduced Sensory Overload – Tools help individuals manage sensory triggers in busy or loud spaces
2. Improved Access and Inclusivity – Libraries become more welcoming to neurodiverse children and their families
3. Enhanced Comfort and Well-Being – Sensory supports help promote calm, confidence, and enjoyment during library visits

“With this initiative, we’re not just providing tools—we’re partnering with a local health agency to positively impact local families’ lives. We’re deeply appreciative of Cabrini’s support and proud to always offer a space that welcomes all community members,” said Celise Reech-Harper, RPL Library Director.

As public libraries across the country increase accessibility, sensory backpacks are an essential part of that movement. Rapides Parish Library is excited to join the ranks of libraries leading the way in inclusive services.

Families are encouraged to visit their local RPL branch and ask about the new Sensory Backpacks. Library staff are thrilled to provide one more way to meet their beloved patrons’ needs.

To learn more, visit your local RPL branch or go to www.rpl.org.

The City of Alexandria has announced that registration has opened for the Power of Persuasion: Journalism & Debate Summer Camp happening June 23–27.

This immersive camp gives ages 13–17 the tools to think critically, speak confidently, and create powerful stories across print, digital, and broadcast media. It’s fun, fast-paced, and future-focused.

The camp will take place June 23-27, 9am to 12pm, at the Youth & Teen Center. This camp is $25. 

Spots are limited — secure a seat today: https://forms.cityofalexandriala.com/

May 1 is recognized globally as International Workers’ Day, or May Day, honoring labor movements and workers’ rights. The day has its roots in the late 19th-century labor movement, particularly the Haymarket affair in Chicago, which highlighted the struggle for an eight-hour workday. Today, it is marked by demonstrations and events advocating for workers’ rights and social justice.

In the United States, May 1 is also observed as Law Day, established in 1958 to reflect on the role of law in society and to cultivate a deeper understanding of the legal system. Various events, including educational programs and discussions, are held nationwide to promote the importance of the rule of law.

Furthermore, the National Day of Prayer is observed on May 1, bringing together people of various faiths to pray for the nation. Communities across the country, such as Laredo, Texas, and Benzonia, Michigan, gather for interfaith prayers focusing on unity, hope, and introspection. This year’s theme, inspired by Romans 15:13, encourages participants to “Pour out to the God of hope and be filled,” aiming to inspire hope, joy, and peace through faith.

• Outstanding Staff Service recognizes a staff member who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to supporting students – Cieltia Adams, Tutoring Center Coordinator.
• Life-Changing Class recognizes an educator whose class has fundamentally altered a student’s academic, professional, or life goals – Patrick Hunter, Assistant Professor of Performing Arts, Howard and Eloise Mulder Endowed Chair.

• Teaching Innovation Award – Rafael Romero Moreno, LL.M., M.A., Instructor of Business.
• Teaching Innovation Grant – Cheryl Bardales, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, Director of C.O.R.E.

The Rapides Parish Police Jury announced on April 29 that Kisatchie Lane will be closed on Monday, May 5, 9am to 4pm. This closure is to allow for repairs to a cross drain at the corner of Amelia Dr. and Kisatchie Ln. Traffic will have to exit through Amelia Dr. 

The Village of Forest Hill has a full time position open in the Utility Department. Candidates should possess a valid driver’s license, have high school diploma, able to pass a physical and drug test, and willing to work in the elements.  Applications can be submitted at Town Hall, 4300 Hwy 112.  For questions, contact the Town Clerk at 318-748-6300.

Thirty-six members of the Tioga Jr. High School archery team spent last week in Sandy, Utah, shooting at the Centershot and NASP Western National Tournaments. Results were two top-10 finishes in Centershot and two top-20 finishes in NASP. Congratulations to the team. 

The Alexandria Museum of Art invites the public to a screening of “Jan Beauboeuf: The Creative Spirit” on Thursday, May 15, 6-8pm, at the museum. 

The film is the winner of the Best Documentary Short at this year’s Cinema on the Bayou film festival in Lafayette (directed by Graham Holt, cinematography by Jerry Clark, edited by Caleb Pate, and produced by Timmons Inc.). The film is a celebration of Avoyelles artist Jan Beauboeuf.

Online registration at https://themuseum.org

April 30 is a day rich with diverse observances. National Raisin Day celebrates the dried grape, a staple in many cuisines and a significant agricultural product, particularly in California’s Central Valley. Raisins are not only a healthy snack but also a key ingredient in numerous recipes, from baked goods to savory dishes.

The day also marks National Bugs Bunny Day, commemorating the debut of the iconic cartoon character in 1938. Bugs Bunny, with his witty catchphrase “What’s up, Doc?” has become a cultural icon, entertaining generations through his clever antics and resilience.

Additionally, April 30 is observed as Honesty Day in the United States. Established in the 1990s, this day encourages honesty in communication, relationships, and politics. It serves as a counterbalance to April Fools’ Day, promoting truthfulness and integrity in daily interactions.