The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development is reminding motorists of upcoming lane closures scheduled for bridge maintenance work on the Pineville Expressway beginning Monday, May 11.

According to DOTD, US 165 Southbound will be reduced to one lane from May 11 through May 15 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. each day, weather permitting. The closures are necessary for maintenance work on the Pineville Expressway overpass bridge located at the intersection of US 165 and US 167 in Kingsville.

DOTD also announced that the turning lane from southbound US 165 to southbound US 167 will be closed during the project.

Officials noted that lane closures may alternate throughout the duration of the work and advised motorists to expect delays and consider alternate routes when possible.

DOTD reminded drivers to use caution in construction zones and remain alert for workers and equipment while traveling through the area.

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Louisiana Christian University’s tennis team may be young—the program restarted just three years ago—but it’s definitely a smash!

The tennis team, led by Coach Alexandra Starkova, who began resurrecting the team in 2022 thanks to some generous donors, finished its regular season ranked No. 13 in the nation, with a 12-6 record, including conference matches, some of which are D1 schools.

LCU previously had both men’s and women’s tennis from 1997 until 2016, when the program was disbanded. 

“The opportunity to join LCU came from an unexpected place, and now the program is healthier than ever with its first-ever winning records, national appearances, updated facilities, and frequent visits from fans that the courts had not seen since the tennis team’s inception,” Starkova said. 

The hard work that Starkova and her players have put in has paid off. In a history-making season, the tennis team heads to the NAIA National Tournament Championship being held in Mobile, Alabama, May 12-16. Only 24 teams in the country will be competing for the title. 

“Congratulations to our LCU tennis team on an outstanding season,” said President Dr. Mark Johnson. “Your hard work, discipline and sportsmanship have made the entire Wildcat family proud. Thank you for representing Louisiana Christian University with excellence on and off the court. Go Wildcats!”

The seven-member team includes Raquel Rodrigues, of Portugal; Elizaveta Mikhailova, of Russia; Farren Sandy, of Indonesia; Valeria Callejo, of Spain; Sofia Ferrer, of Mexico; Akari Uchiyama, of Japan; and Claudia Garcia, of Spain.

LCU will play in three doubles matches and six singles matches. 

“These college teams that are competing in this specific tournament have competed consistently against Top 25 opponents year-round,” Starkova said. “We are one of the elite teams, and we are excited to compete in the NAIA National tournament.”

In addition to its overall ranking, the team is also ranked #8 through the Intercollegiate Tennis Association, which ranks players on their individual and group performances.

Starkova credits much of her and her team’s success to a lot of hard work, discipline and faith.

She herself knows a lot about overcoming obstacles and finding another pathway to success. Following God’s call on your life often looks quite different than what we plan for ourselves. 

Starkova, who is from Spain, was competing on the country’s national tennis tour, with a dream of building a career in the sport she loved.

“But like many athletes, my journey was interrupted by something unexpected, an injury,” she said. “A meniscus tear forced me off the court for six months. In a sport where rhythm and consistency are everything, that kind of pause doesn’t just affect your body; it challenges your identity. It made me step back and rethink what my future in tennis could look like.

“Coming to the United States gave me a second opportunity, not just to compete at a high level again, but to grow in ways I hadn’t considered before.” 

 Starkova played tennis for Louisiana Tech University while pursuing her degree. She went on to McNeese State University in Lake Charles to serve as the graduate assistant tennis coach while she earned her master’s degree. 

“That experience was transformative,” Starkova said. “It allowed me to see the game from a different angle, not just as a player, but as a mentor and leader. I began to understand the impact a coach can have, shaping not only athletes but also individuals.”

She then took the assistant tennis coach position at ULL before coming to LCU to restart the women’s tennis program.

“Looking back, the injury that once felt like a major obstacle ended up redefining my path,” Starkova said. “It pushed me to explore new opportunities, grow academically, and ultimately discover my passion for coaching. My journey is a reminder that setbacks don’t have to end a dream, they can reshape it into something even more meaningful.”

Starkova said she had a vision of one day leading a program of her own, and her faith ultimately led her to LCU.

“I carried with me the desire to build something meaningful, something rooted not only in performance, but in purpose,” she said. “At LCU, I found a place that embraced both my ambitions and my beliefs. It gave me the opportunity to implement my philosophy, to grow as a leader, and to create an environment where faith and sport go hand in hand. Our program has developed into something special, competitive, driven, and united by something deeper than just results.”

Faith has strengthened the team’s mindset, she said, and elevated the way they compete. The focus is not just about winning matches but competing with intention, trusting the process, and knowing they are representing something larger than themselves every time they step onto the court. 

She said she is proud of the work ethic and sportsmanship of her players. They come to practice every day ready to improve, and their strong sense of accountability has allowed them to elevate the level of the program.

“From day one, they embraced the vision of what we are trying to build, and that’s not always easy. It takes discipline, trust, and a lot of selflessness to put the team first, and they’ve done that consistently,” Starkova said. “They are a very resilient group. No matter the situation, whether it’s a tough match, adversity or high-pressure moments, they compete with composure and belief. They don’t back down, and they’ve learned how to respond the right way, which says a lot about their mindset and growth.”

Senior player Racquel Rodrigues, a psychology major, has been on the team since its re-establishment. She said the improvement and success of the team is due in large part to the intense, competitive practices.

 “She pushes us to our limits every single day and expects a lot from us, both physically and mentally,” Rodrigues said. “A lot of times, practices can be very challenging, but it is all because she wants us to reach our full potential. What I respect most about her is that she truly believes in us and constantly encourages us. She pushes us out of our comfort zones, which helps us become stronger athletes and more confident people.” 

Rodrigues said the disappointment of not making it to the national tournament last year, despite the team being ranked #18 in the nation, lit a fire in them to work even harder this year.

Teammate Elizaveta Mikhailova, a business administration major, has also been with the team for three years. She said her dream since joining the team was to make it to nationals. 

“It was one of the goals since my first year here, and each year we were coming closer,” Mikhailova said. “I am really proud of what we achieved this year with the girls because it was the hard work of the whole team, including coaches and supporting staff.”

Both women said Starkova’s expectations of the team were high, but she created a tight-knit, supportive environment for them to grow as players and as people. 

“Coming in, the goal wasn’t just to win matches, it was to create a culture where players could develop at a high level, believe in something bigger than themselves, and compete with intention every single day,” Starkova said. “Seeing that vision come to life has been the most rewarding part. From elevating the level of competition to achieving national recognition to reaching milestones like qualifying for nationals for the first time in program history, those moments reflect the work, trust, and commitment of everyone involved.”

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Second-seeded Glenmora is the last Rapides Parish team standing in the LHSAA baseball playoffs, after another parish team, Grace Christian, went down in a tough 5-4 loss Friday averting a possible all Rapides semifinal game in Class B.

Grace Christian was edged by visiting Family Community. On Thursday, Glenmora run-ruled Stanley10-0.

Glenmora and Family Community, the sixth seed, meet at 2 o’clock Tuesday in Sulphur at McMurry Park on Field 37.

Baseball playoff results, schedule

Class B (quarterfinals, single-elimination)

Glenmora 10, Stanley 0

Family Community 5, Grace Christian 4

(Tuesday’s semifinals at McMurry Park, Sulphur) 

Glenmora vs. Family Community, 2:00

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BOM Bank is proud to sponsor the Midstate Arts & Athletics Golf Tournament!

Midstate Homeschool Organization is a Christian nonprofit serving homeschool families in the greater Alexandria area, providing Christ-honoring opportunities for social, physical, and educational growth through sports, classes, and special events.

Pictured left to right: BOM’s Titan Marler and Dylan Stokes.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

May 10

Brandon Jerod Dorn, 36, Alexandria – home invasion, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Breana Samuel, 29, Alexandria – two counts assault on emergency personnel, disturbing the peace by public intoxication, $2,000 bail.

May 9

Edwin Bryan Allen, 39, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, driving under suspension, improper lane usage, three counts contempt of court, $2,000 bail;

Justin Michael Cole, 26, Deville – speeding, reckless operation of a vehicle, no vehicle registration, no driver’s license, no MVI sticker, failure to secure registration, $1,000 bail;

Malana Lynn Crooks, 47, Alexandria – identity theft, victim 65 years or older or disabled, no bail data;

Michael Wayne Gagnard, 31, Pineville – aggravated obstruction of highway, reckless operation of a vehicle, speeding, failure to yield emergency vehicle, driving under suspension, no passing zone, no vehicle registration, no MVI sticker, failure to secure registration, signal lamps and devices, improper riding motorcycle, $1,400 bail;

Kristopher Amondorashawn Gibson, 31, Alexandria – driving under suspension, windshield required, no insurance, failure to secure registration, display of temporary registration, seven counts contempt of court, $14,500 bail;

Blaine Odell Gillespie, 33, Gilbert – OWI first offense, speeding, following too close, $1,200 bail;

Ellis Bernard Jackson, 46, Pineville —  OWI second offense, $1,500 bail;

Eric Dewayne Jones, 53, Pineville – OWI first offense, wrong way one way street, driving under suspension, $1,200 bail;

Daniel Melder, 47, Pineville – violation of protective orders, $25,000 bail;

Angela Marie Morlte, 49, Alexandria – theft, five counts contempt of court, $7,500 bail.

May 8

Gail Glendolia Bass, 48, Ball – aggravated assault domestic abuse, disturbing the peace, $5,500 bail;

Cashman Cain Cage, 27, Alexandria – criminal damage, two counts simple battery, disturbing the peace violent and tumultuous, contempt of court, $3,750 bail;

Joshua Dewayne Daniels, 26, Pineville – attempted first degree murder, possession of firearm by convicted felon, parole violations, resisting an officer, $125,500 bail;

John Anthony Dubois, 27, Calcasieu – theft, $25,000 bail;

Casey Joseph Fontenot, 27, Ville Platte – possession of firearm by convicted felon, paraphernalia, $10,500 bail;

Britney Nicole Jackson, 39, Alexandria – two counts domestic abuse battery, $1,000 bail;

Etrene Raenell Johnson, 40, Alexandria – two counts second degree battery, $50,000 bail;

Chantal Marie Kerry, 44, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, speeding, canceled plate violation, no registration in vehicle, $2,300 bail;

Cameron Lane Leger, 24, Ville Platte – possession of firearm by convicted felon, wrong way one way street, no driver’s license, $10,200 bail;

Riley Cole Norris, 23, Ball – aggravated assault domestic abuse, illegal carry firearm with drugs, terrorizing, possession of marijuana, $75,500 bail;

Sherry Marie Smith, 55, Pineville – impersonating a peace officer, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $5,000 bail;

Abdelrasoal Taha, 46, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, $1,500 bail.

May 7

Erick Antonio, 22, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper driving on left, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, open container, no license plate light, $1,500 bail;

James Alden Beard, 24, Pineville – simple strangulation domestic abuse, false imprisonment, second degree battery, probation violation, failure to appear, $28,000 bail;

Tonya Buxton, 33, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, Louisiana fugitive, contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Derek Morris Colwell, 35, Pineville – hit and run, careless operation of a vehicle, improper lane usage, operating vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, OWI second offense, $2,700 bail;

Jake Desoto, 39, Marksville – OWI fourth offense, careless operation of a vehicle, safety belt violation, intentional littering, Louisiana fugitive, $200,700 bail;

Tamescho Lacorea Gold, 39, Pineville – accessory after the fact, paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no driver’s license, no signals, five counts contempt of court, $116,200 bail;

Reginald Christopher Hill, 41, Alexandria – criminal trespass, two counts theft (second/subsequent), $25,500 bail;

Justin Roth Hinton, 42, Pineville – possession of stolen vehicle, simple escape, two counts criminal trespass, contempt of court, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, theft (second/subsequent conviction), criminal damage to property, simple burglary, criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of stolen things, $202,000 bail;

Montavion Ladez Lott, 27, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Tevin Martel, McClain, 34, Alexandria – transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, three counts possession of CDS, four counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, $394,500 bail;

Jerry Mickles, 34, Alexandria – driving under suspension, display of temp registration, no insurance, possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $2,300 bail;

Jared Lee Nelson, 45, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, obscenity, parole violations, $4,000 bail;

Paul D. Soderlund, 59, Alexandria – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $60,000 bail;

Kentavious Washington, 24, Glenmora – domestic abuse battery with child present, $3,000 bail;

Seneca Lee Wells, 27, Baton Rouge – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, $50,200 bail.

May 6

Kevie Laine Bordelon, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $5,500 bail;

Sterling D. Dyer, 66, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, Louisiana fugitive, $4,000 bail;

Lawrence Eugene Fuglaar III, 54, Pineville – aggravated battery, domestic abuse battery strangulation, resisting an officer, violation of protective order, $102,000 bail;

Eliza Joy Hernandez, 36, Alexandria – forgery, exploitation of the infirmed, insurance fraud, three counts contempt of court, $25,500 bail;

Cody James McGuire, 38, Ball – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Carlos Jay Ramos, 51, Waco, Texas – four counts simple burglary, $40,000 bail;

Nevada Michael Richard, 49, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Jason Wesley Taylor, 49, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, careless operation of vehicle, $2,100 bail;

Alexis Brooke Wyllie, 33, Alexandria – home invasion, $50,000 bail.

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The Natchitoches Jazz&R&B Festival, which is celebrating its 29th year on May 15-16 is widely regarded as one of the top if not, THE top music festivals in north Louisiana. 

According to festival chairman Rodney Harrington, the event is the culmination of a year long community effort and would not be possible without the generous support of area businesses, concertgoers, and musicians.

“First and foremost, we have a super hard-working board of directors and core group of volunteers who work all year long for no other reason than to help provide good quality musical entertainment for the people of our area and beyond,” said Harrington.

“The festival simply wouldn’t happen without the generosity of our sponsors or partners as we call them”, Harrington continued, “they step up to the plate year after year and allow us to put on a top quality festival featuring A-list artists  and first class sound and production.”

Harrington did say that ticket sales are critical, however, and at the end of the day, it’s all about putting” butts in the seats.”

“With advance online ticket sales, we are able to track where our purchases are coming from and it’s pretty eye-opening,” Harrington said, “ we have folks coming to this festival from literally all over the country, although we rely heavily upon people who are in driving distance.”

He encourages local businesses which, for whatever reason, did not become sponsors, to please consider buying tickets to give to their employees and/or customers. 

Harrington says that the festival was started over 30 years ago mainly to provide a venue for local musicians to perform and it still maintains its loyalty to that group.

“The lineup of performers includes lots of local acts and they are going to be amongst the best you’ll see at the festival, “says Harrington.

For the first time, this year’s festival will feature a stage where all performers will play only their original music.  This will be in the beautiful setting of Beau Jardin and will be presented in cooperation with The Natchitoches Original Music Showcase.

BREAKING NEWS ALERT:  VIP TICKETS ARE NEARLY SOLD OUT AND THE JAZZ FEST BOARD ANTICIPATES TERMINATING THE FURTHER SALE OF THOSE TICKETS IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE. 

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.natchjazzfest.com

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Andrea Melou DeBlieux James, born February 4, 1939, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at her home in Woodworth, Louisiana on May 9, 2026, after a brief illness, surrounded by family.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Melou will be celebrated at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Alexandria, Louisiana on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Paul M. LaPalme officiating. Interment will follow at Henderson-James Hill Cemetery in Boyce, Louisiana under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home, with a Rosary being held at 6:30 pm in the Kramer Chapel. Visitation will continue Thursday from 9:00 am until 10:30 am at the funeral home.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Hyams DeBlieux (Kathryn Melou Brown DeBlieux); her former husband, William Fielding James, Sr.; her son-in-law, William “Bill” Cecil Hatter; and her brother-in-law, Julien Vienne.

She is survived by her son, William Fielding “Colt” James, Jr. and wife Angela “Angie” Legendre James of Woodworth; her daughters, Kathryn Melou “Sissy” Jones and husband Kevin “Bart” Jones of Woodworth and Claire Rebecca “Becky” James-Hatter of St. Louis, Missouri; her brother, Henry DeBlieux (Carol); and her sisters, Diane Vienne, Marteel Henry (Skeeter), Claire Weaver (Billy), and Lynn Havard (Doug).

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Fielding Michael James and wife Leslie of New Orleans, Allyce James Carbine and husband Matt of New Orleans, Madeline Melou Jones Hebert and husband Gavin of Ellington, Connecticut, and Margaret Ann Jones of Lafayette; and her great-grandchildren, Hudson Calvit James, Marilyn Melou James, Hattie James Carbine, Silas Geary Carbine, MeiLan Melou Hebert, and Ann Corinne SongZhu Hebert.

She was born and raised in Natchitoches and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. She later married and moved to Boyce to raise her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend.

Melou worked most of her life, including time with the Kisatchie-Delta Planning District and the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s office where she spent the majority of her career as a legal secretary.

She was a great cook, an avid reader, and loved to travel with her friends and family. She also loved the game of bridge and her bridge community, achieving the distinction of Life Master in 2019. Through bridge, mahjong and travel, she made great friends, and she treasured those friendships.

Pallbearers will be Fielding James, Matt Carbine, Gavin Hebert, Frank Willis, Matthew “Keppy” Keppinger, Houston Keppinger, Bart Jones and Michael Arbour.

Honorary pallbearers will be James “Jam” Downs, Larry DeBlieux, David Marler, Danny James, Skeeter Henry, Billy Weaver, and Doug Havard.

We would like to send our heartfelt gratitude to her caregivers who were provided by Exceptional Care over the last few weeks: Cathy Lemmons, Christa Charrier, Molly Edwards, and Justine Littleton. In addition, thank you to the staff of Passages Hospice, specifically Heaven Pavolich and Janice Coty.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Henderson-James Hill Cemetery, 160 Clubhouse Drive, Woodworth, LA 71485.

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Funeral services for Robert Edward Futch will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026, in the Chapel of Hixson Brothers, Pineville, with Dr. C. Stewart Holloway and Rev. Buddy Willis officiating. Burial with military honors will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Ruby. Pallbearers will be Spencer Caubarreaux, Matthew Able, Connor Branch, Dane Lancaster, Jimmy Hayes, and Tim Brasseaux.

Mr. Futch passed from this life on Friday, May 8, 2026, in the comfort of his home and in the presence of his devoted wife of 58 years.

He was born on August 10, 1941, in Nashville, Georgia and served in the United States Air Force after finishing school. He met and married Linda Chelette of Ruby, Louisiana, and they built a life together there. They founded, owned, and operated D & D Carpet in Alexandria, Louisiana until they retired almost 30 years ago. He was a member of Pine Grove Baptist Church for many years, where he taught Sunday School, and more recently was a member of First Baptist Church, Pineville, where he served as a deacon. His hobbies included woodworking and gardening. His greatest joy was spending time with family, especially his grandchildren.

Mr. Futch was preceded in death by his parents, T. J. and Gladys Nicholson Futch; brothers, Weymon Futch and Kenneth Futch; and sister, Rachel Stripling.

Left to cherish a lifetime of memories are his wife, Linda Chelette Futch; daughters, Devona Able (Greg) and Delisa Bressler (Brad); brother, T. J. Futch, Jr. (Sarah); sisters, Geneva Bailey and Anelda Guest; sisters-in-law, Mary Futch and Linda M. Futch; grandchildren, Grace Anne Branch (Connor), Spencer Caubarreaux, Matthew Able, and Caroline Bressler; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Donations may be made to the Youth Ministry of First Baptist Church Pineville, 901 Main St., Pineville, Louisiana 71360 or to the Support Groups Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church, 5011 Jackson Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71302.

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By JIM BUTLER

Some call it splitting hairs, others the letter of the law.

Either way Alexandria City Council President Cynthia Perry unleashed a maelstrom when she scotched an effort to override Mayor Jacques Roy’s GAEDA veto.

The council chambers had a number in attendance who apparently intended to speak for an override. It didn’t happen.

On the agenda was discussion of Roy’s veto message, a castigation that pulled no punches.

But City Clerk Donna Jones, an employee of the Council, said the message could not, under home rule charter provisions, be discussed, since it was neither proposed resolution nor ordinance.

Council members received the message on April 28, the clerk said. None took steps to put a veto action on the May 5 agenda.

Some say the responsibility is the clerk’s. 

The charter says:

“Ordinances vetoed by the mayor shall be submitted promptly to the city clerk who in turn shall submit them to the city council at the next regular meeting following receipt thereof.”

Alderman at-large Jules Green moved to add the matter to the agenda, which under state law requires a unanimous vote. After a second and Malcolm Larvadain’s yes, Perry voted no, ending the roll call , effectively sustaining the veto and letting the air out of the room. 

Roy subsequently commended Perry for her “courage and discernment” regarding a “vain and useless act” – the Council’s vote to rescind a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority. 

Under council rules the matter cannot be addressed again for six months unless five members move to do so due to “substantive” changes. 

Reconsideration can only be moved for by a person on the prevailing side of the vote, presumably in this case that to add the veto to the agenda, and that only due to new information.

Moving on, the Council confirmed at-large member Jim Villard’s appointment of Brad Smith to the seven-seat GAEDA board, leaving it with one vacancy – Lizzie Felter’s District 4 choice. 

Earlier Tuesday the Authority apparently failed to have a quorum in its second attempt to hold a meeting scheduled for April. 

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The Rapides Parish Police Jury announced an emergency relocation Friday for two voting precincts ahead of the May 16 election.

Voters in Precincts C11 A and C11 B, who previously cast ballots at 1402 Reed Ave., will now VOTE in a  new location to vote. The change is effective immediately.

The new polling site for these precincts is located at:

Mt. Zion Baptist Church and Life Center
11 16th St. Alexandria, LA 71301

For additional information, voters may contact the Rapides Parish Police Jury office or the Registrar of Voters.

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Update:

Rapides Parish Schools announced Thursday that Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School and Alexandria Middle Magnet School will officially reopen Friday, May 8.

The campuses were previously forced to close on Thursday, May 7, due to significant flash flooding and heavy rainfall that caused drainage issues across the district. District officials confirmed that maintenance teams and contractors worked throughout the day to resolve the issues and ensure the facilities were safe for occupancy.

“Thanks to the hard work of our school and district maintenance teams and contractors, both campuses are ready to safely welcome students and staff back,” the district stated in a release.

Parents or guardians with further questions may contact the district at 318-487-0888 or via email at contactus@rpsb.us. Additional updates can be found on the official district website at http://www.rpsb.us.

ORIGINAL

Following significant flash flooding across the district today, Rapides Parish Schools has announced the closure of two campuses for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7, 2026. Heavy rainfall caused drainage issues at both locations, preventing the schools from opening safely.

Maintenance teams and contractors are currently on-site working to resolve the issues. District officials will provide updates as more information becomes available.

WHAT: School Closures due to flash flooding and drainage issues WHEN: Thursday, May 7, 2026 WHERE:

• Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School

• Alexandria Middle Magnet School

CONTACT:

For questions or further information, the district can be reached at:

• Phone: 318-487-0888

• Email: contactus@rpsb.us

• Website: http://www.rpsb.us
  

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BATON ROUGE — Louisiana families may qualify for SUN Bucks, a summer grocery assistance program providing a one-time $120 benefit for each eligible school-aged child to help purchase food during the summer break.

The program applies to children ages 5 to 18 and is designed to assist families while school meal programs are unavailable during the summer months.

Most eligible children will automatically receive the benefit and do not need to apply. Automatic eligibility includes children born between Aug. 20, 2007, and July 1, 2020, who received SNAP, FITAP, KCSP or income-based Medicaid benefits at any time between July 1, 2025, and Aug. 20, 2026.

Children may also automatically qualify if they attend a school participating in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program and were approved individually for free or reduced-price meals.

Some families, however, will need to submit an application. This includes households with children attending Community Eligibility Provision schools where all students receive free meals but no meal application was completed. Families may also qualify based on household income even if they do not meet the automatic eligibility categories.

Applications for summer 2026 benefits will be accepted through Aug. 20, 2026. Approved applicants typically receive benefits within three weeks of approval.

Officials say SUN Bucks benefits will begin distribution in mid-May. Families already receiving SNAP or those who participated in SUN Bucks last summer will have benefits added to their existing EBT card. Other households will receive a preloaded EBT card by mail in a plain white envelope addressed to the child.

Families are encouraged to verify their mailing address information with Medicaid, FITAP, KCSP and their child’s school to avoid delays in receiving benefits.

SUN Bucks cards can be activated through the LifeInCheck app, by calling 888-997-1117 or online through the LifeInCheck EBT system. Cardholders will need the child’s Social Security information, birthdate and ZIP code to complete activation.

Officials also remind families to choose secure PIN numbers and avoid common patterns such as repeated or consecutive digits.

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Second-seeded Glenmora rolled into the Class B state tournament semifinals Thursday with a run-rule win, and might face another parish team, Grace Christian, next Tuesday in Sulphur.

Grace Christian is home today in another Class B quarterfinal.

The Plainview Hornets ran into a powerful Family Christian team and was ousted from the Class C quarterfinals Thursday.

Glenmora and Grace Christian are the only parish baseball teams still standing.

Baseball playoff results, schedule

Class B (regional round, single-elimination)

Glenmora 10, Stanley 0

Family Community (6) at Grace Christian (3), today, 6:30

Class C (regional round, single-elimination)

Family Christian 12, Plainview 2

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The Louisiana Department of Health is urging residents to prioritize water safety as summer approaches, reminding families that strong safety practices can help prevent drownings and serious water-related injuries, particularly among children.

The reminder comes as Gov. Jeff Landry has proclaimed May as Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund Swim Safety Month.

According to recent data compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the fourth leading cause of injury-related deaths among children ages 0 to 14 in Louisiana.

LDH officials said most drownings are preventable and often happen quickly and quietly. Between 2022 and 2024, 55 children drowned in Louisiana, according to the LDH Office of Public Health. More than half of those children were unsupervised, and 42 percent drowned in water areas without proper protective barriers. Most incidents occurred in swimming pools.

An additional 54 children were hospitalized due to nonfatal drownings or near-drownings, which health officials say can lead to lifelong disabilities and permanent developmental impacts.

State health officials are encouraging parents and caregivers to actively supervise children whenever they are near water, keep young children within arm’s reach and never leave children unattended around pools, lakes or other bodies of water.

The department also recommends enrolling children in swim lessons at an early age, installing protective barriers and self-latching gates around pools, ensuring pools and spas have compliant drain covers and teaching children to avoid pool drains.

Officials say extra caution should be used in open water environments such as lakes and beaches, where conditions can include low visibility, changing depths, currents and underwater hazards.

Families are also encouraged to use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets during boating and water recreation activities, avoid alcohol while swimming or supervising children and learn CPR and basic rescue skills in case of emergencies.

Additional water safety information, swim lesson resources and CPR class information are available through the Louisiana Department of Health.

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The City of Alexandria Government is inviting residents, business owners and community members to help shape the future of the Masonic Drive Corridor during an upcoming public open house.

The event will take place Tuesday, May 12, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the mall food court.

City officials say the open house is part of ongoing discussions focused on revitalization, future development and long-term growth along the corridor. Community members will have an opportunity to share ideas, ask questions and provide feedback on how the area can better serve residents, families and visitors.

Officials described the Masonic Drive Corridor as an area with significant potential for redevelopment and community improvement, adding that public input will play a key role in guiding future plans for the corridor.

The city is encouraging residents to attend and participate in the conversation about the future vision for the area.

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BOM Bank is proud to support the Bolton Academy PTO with a recent donation! The PTO’s mission to strengthen and enhance the achievement of every child—by supporting students, teachers, and staff—makes a lasting impact on the entire school community. We also love their plans for a totally 90’s themed Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate their amazing faculty! Pictured left to right: Tori Lynn and BOM’s Emily Gintz.

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Mrs. Linda Sue Gaspard, age 75 of Alexandria, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, May 4, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 5, 1950 in DeRidder, La., Linda was the daughter of Charles and Isabella Archer of Grand Coteau, La. She was a woman of many roles, gracefully balancing the demands of self-employment with the love and dedication she poured into her home. Above all, she was a proud and devoted mother of two, serving as a constant source of strength and resilience and encouragement. She will be remembered for her kind heart, selflessness and her special ability to make everyone feel cared for and valued. To all who knew her, she was simply “Maw-Maw”.

A graduate of Menard High School, Linda worked along side her husband in their family business. Together they owned and operated AAA Enterprises, where she repaired appliances for many years. She later helped run Linwell Used Cars, working closely with her sons. She was also very well known for being a Notary Public for over 33 years. Linda found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially her love of making egg sandwiches for her babies, cross-stitching and hummingbirds. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, particularly he children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, who will carry forward her love and lessons.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Charles Archer and Isabella Archer O’Tinger, and her brother, Charlie Archer.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Ewell J. Gaspard, Jr., her sons, Ewell J. Gaspard, III (LeeAnn) , and Charles C. Gaspard (Rhonda), her grandchildren, Lakyn N. Bonnette (Clayton), Ewell J. Gaspard, IV, Christian D. Credeur, Ashlyn M. Credeur, Logan J. Gaspard, Emily A. Gaspard, Courtney E. Blazek, and Joshua M. Chandler. Also survived by 10 great grandchildren and many other “adopted” family members.

The family would like to extend a tremendous level of gratitude to Still Waters Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, love and unwavering support provided to her and her family throughout her final days. Their kindness and dedication brought comfort and peace during a difficult time and will never be forgotten. Their compassion, willingness to go the extra mile and true dedication are what make Still Waters Hospice a truly exceptional provider od care and the elite of the hospice care world.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date for family and close friends.

Funeral arrangements have been placed in the care of Fall Creek Funeral Home, Pineville, Robbie Dauzat, Director.

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Memorial services celebrating the life of Joseph Brian Dufour will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM in the chapel of Gallagher Funeral Home. A time of reflection will begin at 7:00 PM officiated by Rev. Lyndon Marcotte.

Mr. Dufour, age 67, of Pineville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Brian was a man of many talents, hobbies, and interests, but the role he treasured most in life was being a devoted husband, father, and Paw Paw.

After retiring from Siemens, he spent his days being surrounded by his family. His grandchildren were truly the light of his life, and there was nothing that brought him more happiness than hearing their laughter, sharing stories, and making memories with them alongside the love of his life, Dolly.

Whether he was lending a helping hand on a building project, settling in to watch one of his favorite movies, cheering for one of his many favorite sports teams, or listening to his wide-ranging taste of music, Brian’s ultimate happiness always came from the people he loved. His love for his family was unwavering, and the example he set through his kindness, loyalty, and compassion will continue to live as an example to those he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Clayton Dufour, Jr. and Dorothy Marie Dufour Boudreaux; brothers, Wendell Bruce Dufour and David Jerome Dufour; and sister, Anita Haynes.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 21 years, Mamie Dolly Dufour; son, Joshua Warren Frazier(Brookelyn); cherished grandchildren, Tristyn, Georgia, Waylon, and Lainey; sisters, Bobbie Denham(Orien)Marlene Wise(Michael), Belinda Marks, and Lillian Dufour. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

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Phonetic: /DUJ-un/

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition

• Dudgeon is typically used in the phrase “in high dudgeon” to describe someone who is angry and offended by something they perceive to be unfair or wrong.
  
  The customer stormed out of the store in high dudgeon after the manager refused to give them a refund for their purchase.

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