You may not have heard his name before this past weekend, but if you’re an LSU baseball fan, you’ll likely never forget it after what he did on Easter Sunday.

Cade Jordan Arrambide (pronounced Air-em-BEE-day), a sophomore catcher from Tomball, Texas, became the first LSU player in the school’s history to hit four home runs in one game to lead LSU to a come-from-behind 16-6 victory at Tennessee in 12 innings.

We heard most of the game on the car radio, driving back to Alexandria from a weekend jaunt to visit my sister-in-law in El Dorado, Ark. As exciting as the contest was, starting in the seventh inning, it rekindled my love for baseball on the radio. It would’ve been a great game to see on TV, no doubt, but there’s something about baseball and radio that were made for each other.

Another compelling thing about this game was it was the “rubber” game to determine the winner of the regular season series between the last two NCAA baseball champions. Tennessee, remember, won it all two season ago before LSU won it last year. For the second time in three years.

LSU trailed 5-0 early and the Tigers were down 5-1 when, in the seventh inning, the Tigers suddenly metamorphosized into the “Gorilla Ball” Tigers of the late 1990s.

It was as if Zeus showed up and started handing out lightning bolts in the LSU dugout in place of the customary bats. They got back-to-back-to-back home runs from sophomore John Pearson, Seth Dardar (of bat-flipping fame after a home run last week vs. Kentucky) and Arrambide to pull within 5-4.

Jake Brown got an RBI single in the ninth – the same inning LSU coach Jay Johnson got ejected after arguing a called third strike – to tie the game and force extra innings. Jake Brown is a footnote now in the game, but what a crucial hit to bring in the run that allowed the history and excitement that happened in the extra innings. Johnson was a spectator for the final innings from the press box at Lindsey Nelson Stadium.

Both teams scored a run in the 11^th (with Arrambide’s third home run in the top of the inning giving the Tigers a brief lead) to go into the 12^th inning with a 6-6 score.

In the 12^th inning, LSU scored 10 runs. The Tigers took a 7-6 lead and Arrambide belted his school record fourth homer – a grand slam to boot – for an 11-6 lead. That blast didn’t hit the stadium lights in the outfield, causing them to rain down sparks like fireworks, but it did prompt LSU play-by-play broadcaster Chris Blair to observe the Volunteer fans were heading en masse for the exits.

In Louisiana lore, it just might be the shot heard round the college baseball world. It seemingly awakened a sleeping giant. Meanwhile, Gavin Guidry (4-3) of Lake Charles, who was scheduled to start but instead came on in relief, pitched 5 1/3 solid innings, allowing just one run on two hits.

LSU had four errors in the early innings, but the Tigers had 19 hits – including seven homers – to score 16 runs and win the series, two games to one. The victory evened LSU’s SEC record to 6-6 and returned LSU (22-11) to the national rankings at 24^th.

Arrambide is a name that has roots in the Basque region of Spain, and Cade (a sturdy 6-3, 208) equaled his total number of homers all last season with the four he notched on Sunday. His Texas hometown of Tomball is a “family-friendly” suburb 37 miles northwest of Houston. He achieved SEC Academic Honor Roll honors last year as a freshman, and as a senior at Tomball High School he led the team to the Class 6A state championship and was ranked as the No. 1 catcher by MLB.com in its 2024 draft rankings.

Lest he get the big head, Arrambide might consider the fate of one Marshall McDougall, who owns the NCAA record for home runs in a game with six for Florida State in May of 1999. He went 7-for-7 in his historic game with NCAA game records for RBI (16) and total bases (25).

His MLB story? He played part of one season (2005) for the Texas Rangers, batting .167 in 18 games.

For now, Arrambide and the Tigers are the talk of college baseball after winning that pivotal marquee SEC series at Tennessee on Easter Sunday. The tomb in which many naysayers were ready to bury them is open.

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The Medicine Cabinet has announced plans to relocate its Alexandria location to Pineville, with the new site expected to open in May.

The business will move to 40 Pinecrest Drive, offering customers the same staff and services in an updated space.

In announcing the move, the company emphasized its commitment to maintaining the same level of care and familiarity for its customers while transitioning to a new location.

Updates on the opening, including progress and a preview of the new space, are expected to be shared in the coming weeks.

Paid Content

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A Rapides Parish student has been recognized among the state’s top youth for her achievements and community impact.

Maylie Stanley has been named a Louisiana Young Hero by Louisiana Public Broadcasting, an honor awarded to only seven students statewide.

The recognition highlights young individuals who demonstrate excellence in academics, community service, perseverance through adversity and the ability to inspire others through their character and actions.

School officials said Stanley’s dedication to both her school and community set her apart, noting that her efforts reflect a strong commitment to making a positive difference.

The Louisiana Young Heroes program celebrates students across the state who exemplify leadership, service and resilience.

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The Rapides Parish School Board is recognizing Talesha Mollette of J.I. Barron Elementary as part of its weekly Classroom Hero Highlight initiative.

Mollette, who has 19 years of experience in education, was selected for her commitment to fostering a positive and empowering classroom environment for her students.

According to the district, Mollette encourages students to become leaders and role models by demonstrating kindness, incorporating daily affirmations and offering public praise when students make positive choices.

As part of the recognition, Mollette also highlighted the influence of a colleague who has made a lasting impact on students. She pointed to Susan Wilmore, noting that while she may not serve as a traditional classroom teacher, she continues to positively influence students while also supporting teachers and parents with her knowledge and experience.

The Classroom Hero Highlight program spotlights educators across the parish who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of students.

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In the 1930s, the Kutol Products soap company was dangerously close to going out of business.  Cleo McVicker worked hard to get Kutol’s products into stores and ultimately in the hands of consumers.  Kutol needed a new product, but what?  At the time, many homes in America were heated with coal which left a sooty residue on everything in the home.  Unlike regular household dust which could easily be swept or vacuumed up, coal dust was finer and more difficult to remove.  Sweeping and vacuuming coal dust normally sent more of it back into the air than was collected.  Coal dust also contained sulfur, nitrogen, silica, and heavy metals, which could be hazardous to health.  In 1933, Cleo negotiated a deal with the purchasing agent for the Kroger grocery store chain to add a cleaner to their inventory which would remove coal dust from wallpaper.  Coal dust was especially hard to remove from wallpaper because it was small enough to settle into the paper fibers of wallpaper.  Cleo promised Kroger a product which did not exist.

Cleo immediately contacted his brother Noah, Kutol’s main product developer, and the two began the rigorous research and development process.  After countless failures, they came up with the formula for a compound which easily removed coal dust from wallpaper.  Unlike liquid cleaners which required the user to apply the liquid to a cloth and swipe away the coal dust which usually made a bigger mess, Kutol wallpaper cleaner, was non-toxic, non-staining, and made no mess at all.  The user simply pressed the compound onto the wall and the coal dust stuck to it.  Once the compound became saturated with coal dust, the consumer threw it away and bought another can for five cents.  Because it was a replenishable product, the Kutol company was saved one nickel at a time. 

For 20 years, Kutol wallpaper cleaner kept the company afloat and successful.  Following World War II, many people converted their homes from being heated by coal to natural gas.  No longer did homeowners have the hassle of purchasing, handling, and storing a skuttle of dusty coal.  Natural gas burned cleanly and was piped directly into the home.  Around the same time, manufacturers began making wallpaper out of vinyl rather than paper which made it much easier to clean.  By the early 1950s, sales of Kutol wallpaper cleaner began to decline quickly.  The company was once again on the brink of failure.  

In 1955, Joe McVicker, Cleo’s son, was searching for a way to keep Kutol from going bankrupt when Kay Zufall, his sister-in-law and schoolteacher, convinced him that Kutol wallpaper cleaner could be used for something more fun than cleaning.  Joe ran with the idea.  In 1956, Kutol established the Rainbow Crafts Company Inc. and repackaged the wallpaper cleaner, but Kutol was so near bankruptcy that they had no advertising budget.  That could have been the end, but Joe demonstrated his product to Bob Keeshan, better known to the world as Captain Kangaroo.  Bob liked the product so much that he agreed to use it in his television show at least once a week.  From 1955 until 1984, Captain Kangaroo was one of the most popular children’s shows on television.  Before Captain Kangaroo, Kutol struggled to sell their rebranded product.  Because of Captain Kangaroo, Kutol struggled to keep up with demand.  Since its introduction on Captain Kangaroo, billions of cans of rebranded Kutol wallpaper cleaner have been sold.  It has become one of history’s most iconic toys and it remains popular to this day.  We have all played with Kuto wallpaper cleaner, but we know it as Play-Doh.    

Sources:

1.     The Cincinnati Enquirer, April 19, 1936, p.25.

2.     The Akron Beacon Journal, April 18, 1938, p.19. 

3.     David Kindy, “The Accidental Invention of Play-Doh,” Smithsonian magazine, November 12, 2019, accessed March 29, 2026, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/accidental-invention-play-doh-180973527/.

4.     “The History of Play-Doh: Good, Clean Fun!” The Strong National Museum of Play, accessed March 29, 2026, https://www.museumofplay.org/blog/the-history-of-play-doh-good-clean-fun/.   

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Celisa Smith Coldiron, age 55 of Pineville, entered eternal rest on Monday, March 16, 2026 in her residence.

Celisa was a resident of Pineville for over 34 years. She was the Financial Director for Families Helping Families, a non-profit organization catering to children with physical disabilities. She enjoyed her flowers and plants and tending to their pool, which was her relaxation, as well as art painting. She also loved spending time and going to functions with her family. Her family was her life.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Deloris Davis Smith, and her infant son, Brady Thomas Coldiron.

Celisa is survived by her husband of 36 years, Russ Coldiron of Pineville; three sons, Jesse Coldiron (Denise) of Pineville, Jacob Coldiron of Pineville, and Jerrod “Jed” Snoddy (Kari) of Pollock; her father, Mr. Cecil Smith of Pineville; and one sister, Cheline Cox (Jim) of Ecuador, South America. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Kylie Coldiron, Madison Coldiron, Wylan Snoddy and Reed Snoddy, as well as special extended family members Dana Little of Cheneyville and Frankie Lachney of Cheneyville.

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Ricki Babineaux joined his Lord and Savior on Feb.22,2026 in Pineville, La. Ricki was born in New Orleans,La. on April 7, 1954. He was a very talented Jewelry Artisan. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph E. Babineaux, his mother Myra Madere Vass, and his brother Wesley J. Babineaux. He is survived by his son Joshua Auguste DeFisher, his brother Darren Babineaux, his sisters Patti Chigoy(Tommy), Lauri Stuart, and Geralyn Hosmer. His family would like to extend special gratitude to the caring staff of Hilltop Nursing Home and Compassionate Care Hospice in Pineville. He is interred in St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum in Destrehan.

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At approximately 2:49 AM on Monday April 6, 2026, Patrol Deputies responded to the area of US 71 South and Gene Ball Drive in reference to a report of a drive-by shooting.

Upon arrival, deputy’s located two gun shot victims who were transported to local hospitals.  The victim’s status is unknown at this time.

According to witnesses, the suspect vehicle involved in the drive-by shooting is a white SUV, unknown make or model.

Sheriffs Detectives and Crime Scene Unit responded to conduct their investigation and process evidence.

This is an ongoing investigation and if anyone has any information on this incident, they are asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 318-473-6727,  RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

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By JIM BUTLER

Arthur Laffer once said there was no Santa Claus working in the US Treasury. He’s evidently not in the City of Alexandria Finance office either.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday afternoon on Mayor Jacques Roy’s proposed budget that includes projected General Fund revenue of $70.2 million, about $16 million less than the current fiscal year expectation.

Roy’s budget message notes conditions which create uncertainties in revenue projections, requiring what he terms austere spending for the year beginning May 1.

The plan does include across-the-board pay adjustments and does not factor any City Council action on Utility System rates, as sure a forecast as Tiger Woods having his driver’s license suspended.

Tax revenue (sales and property) is expected to drop $3 million, to $39.5 million.

Other categories include intergovernmental transfers, use of fund balance, use of retained earnings, down about $11.5 million. 

On the spending side, public safety drops $1.5 million to $35.5 million, public works $6 million to $11.9 million, interfund transfers $9 million to $2.4 million. 

The Utility System Fund is expected to generate $113.1 million, up $4 million from the current year. Expenses are set at $62 million. Fuel adjustment charges above the base, 40-year-old rate are pass-along revenue, from the city to its supplier.

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The Weatherization Assistance Program is providing no-cost energy efficiency services to income-eligible households across North and Central Louisiana through local administration by the LaSalle Community Action Association, with support from the Louisiana Housing Corporation and the U.S. Department of Energy.

The program, known as WAP, is the largest residential energy efficiency initiative in the country. It is designed to help households with limited income reduce energy costs by improving a home’s overall energy performance at no cost to participants. The program operates nationwide, providing funding to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Native American tribes and U.S. territories, and serves approximately 35,000 homes each year.

Locally, the program helps residents save energy, lower utility bills and stay comfortable year-round. Services available may include insulation and air sealing, energy-efficient lighting and appliance upgrades, and basic health and safety checks.

The Weatherization Assistance Program serves a wide range of households, including seniors, individuals with disabilities and families. Both homeowners and renters may apply, though renters must have landlord approval. Applicants must also meet income eligibility guidelines.

The program serves multiple parishes throughout the region, including Rapides, Caddo, Ouachita, Lincoln, Jackson, Caldwell, Grant, Winn, Madison, Concordia, Catahoula, Franklin, Richland, Tensas, LaSalle, West Carroll and East Carroll parishes.

Officials say the program not only helps reduce financial strain for residents but also improves home comfort and safety by addressing energy efficiency issues.

The LaSalle Community Action Association is currently accepting applications for the program. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide a valid photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income, recent utility bills and documentation from the property owner if applicable.

Those interested can apply or seek assistance by contacting the organization at its Ferriday office, located at 107 E.E. Wallace Boulevard, by calling (318) 757-9213, or by emailing erikaw.lcaa@gmail.com. Additional information is also available online at lhc.la.gov/weatherization.

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The Pineville Police Department announced that all active warrants for a previously featured wanted subject have been cleared following her arrest by another agency.

According to the department, the suspect, identified as Lauren Ebert, was highlighted during Valentine’s week as a wanted individual with eight active warrants at the time. The social media post gained significant attention, being shared more than 100 times and reaching tens of thousands of viewers.

Authorities stated that while Pineville officers were unable to locate her, the Alexandria Police Department ultimately made the arrest. As a result, all Pineville warrants have now been resolved.

Officials reported that Ebert was booked on a total of 27 charges, with bond set at $862,000. She is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Investigators also indicated they do not believe she acted alone. Authorities said that if probable cause is established regarding the sale or distribution of stolen property connected to the case, additional investigations will be pursued and others involved could face charges.

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Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

April 5

Jason Damion Battiste Jr., 34, Alexandria – vehicular negligent injuring, OWI fourth offense, simple escape, careless operation, driving under suspension, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $3,200 bail;

Devonte Dwaine Braggs, 25, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, parish probation violation, contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Jennifer Keandria Poullard, 28, Oakdale – OWI first offense, open container, driving under suspension, headlamps required, no bail data.

April 4

Brandon Dewayne Buxton, 36, Elizabeth – three counts contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Derrick Dewayne King, 44, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, no bail data;

Peyton Joeseph Megison, 23, Colfax – OWI first offense, signal lamps, expired MVI sticker, $1,200 bail;

Michael Scott Newell, 58, Shreveport – failure to timely register as sex offender, expired MVI sticker, expired plate/registration, $200 bail;

Willie Allen Slayton, 63, Leesville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Shawna C. Thompson, 41, Pineville – criminal damage to property, three counts contempt of court, $30,500 bail;

Coby Aaron Whatley, 24, Deville – possession of marijuana, contempt of court, $2,500 bail.

April 3

Lauren Ellen Ebert, 35, Alexandria – 11 counts theft (second/subsequent conviction), three counts criminal conspiracy, 12 counts contempt of court, $862,000 bail;

Jeffery Cortez Cross, 28, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Ryan Joseph Harrell, 31, Alexandria – self-mutilation of a prisoner, possession of synthetic CDS, burglary of inhabited dwelling, $6,500 bail;

Keith A. Reynolds, 39, Alexandria – theft, theft of a motor vehicle, violation of protective orders, home invasion, domestic abuse battery, $500 bail;

Bobby Robert Roberts, 71, Alexandria – possession of CDS, operating a vehicle under suspension for certain prior offenses, three counts contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Cody Steven Smith, 36, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, illegal possession of stolen things, $2,000 bail.

April 2

Kelvin G. Atkins, 34, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Jennifer Ann Brossette, 48, Pineville – simple burglary, no bail data;

Gregory Keith Brown, 55, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, contempt of court, unauthorized use a motor vehicle, driving under suspension, aggravated criminal damage, hit and run driving, reckless operation, failure to report an accident, $1,200 bail;

Christopher S. Cotton, 22, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, driver’s license not in possession, $1,200 bail;

Anthony Emmanuel Crawford, 44, Alexandria – aggravated assault with a firearm, disturbing the peace in violent and tumultuous manner, $10,500 bail;

Reginald Harrison, 33, Alexandria – manufacture transfer possession of machine guns, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, obstruction of justice, possession of firearm by convicted felon, no license plate light, parole violations, $41,700 bail;

Galen Kimerla Hollingsworth, 49, Pineville – aggravated assault domestic abuse, $1,000 bail;

Suzan Danielle Jenkins, 44, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, pedestrians on highways, two counts contempt of court, $14,100 bail;

Robert Earl Newman Jr., 45, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, violation of protective order, $50,250 bail;

Eric Paul Nichols, 46, Pineville – criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, $5,500 bail;

Dacora Porter, 17, Ferguson, Missouri – two counts aggravated battery of healthcare professional, $2,000 bail;

Alfred Rue IV, 27, Alexandria – two counts second degree murder, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, $2.015 million bail;

McNeal Sanders, 27, Alexandria – carnal knowledge of a juvenile, home invasion, resisting an officer, aggravated battery of a dating partner, home invasion, aggravated battery, two counts contempt of court, probation violation, simple battery, $80,500 bail;

Colby Daniel Vance II, 34, Ball – two counts Louisiana fugitive, aggravated assault with a firearm, improper window tint, 10 counts contempt of court, $15,200 bail.

April 1

Michael Gerard Carr, 60, Alexandria – possession of CDS, simple arson, simple burglary, injury by arson, two counts contempt of court, $18,000 bail;

Darrell Craig Johnson, 38, Ball – two counts violations of protective orders, $6,500 bail;

Tralexcia Mylashana Johnson, 19, Alexandria – three counts simple assault, criminal damage to property, unlawful communication harassing, $2,500 bail;

Julius Byron Layfield, 45, Alexandria – vehicular homicide, DWI, hit and run serious injury, negligent injuring – first degree vehicular, $300,000 bail;

Justin Wayne Page, 46, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Shanna Ann Pittman, 41, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Chad Dewayne Pruitt, 53, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, contempt of court, $102,000 bail;

Mark Neville Roberts, 57, Marksville – possession of CDS, no driver’s license, switched license plate, expired registration, no insurance, two counts contempt of court, $51,900 bail;

Franklin Kevin Smith, 57, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Antoine Deshown Tuco, 34, Alexandria – theft of a motor vehicle, two counts simple burglary, $30,000 bail.

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The Rapides Parish Fire District 12 responded to a total of 10 emergency calls during the month of March, according to its latest report.

The calls included two structure fires, one of which involved mutual aid, one fire alarm, three grass or brush fires, two electrical hazard or shorted circuit incidents, one vehicle fire and one motor vehicle accident.

Officials noted that the department’s response efforts were made possible by the dedication of its volunteer firefighters, who continue to serve the community when emergencies arise.

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Celebrating the Life of Za’niyah Ja’Nell “Niyah” Boyd

Za’niyah Ja’Nell “Niyah” Boyd, age 11, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 5:04 p.m. at Rapides Women’s and Children’s Hospital. A bright and gifted 5th grade student at Rosenthal Montessori, Niyah took great pride in her accomplishments, including earning A/B Honor Roll and being recognized as Student of the Month.

Niyah was full of life, joy, and personality. She loved dancing, singing, drawing, learning new languages, and spending time talking with her friends. She also enjoyed Roblox, especially MM2, and had a special love for Korean and Asian culture, as well as the boy band Tomorrow X Together. Niyah loved seafood, Chick-fil-A, and her favorite snacks, and she truly never played about her food.

Public viewing and visitation will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71301, with Pastor Roger L. Green, Sr. officiating.

Burial will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Though her time here was far too short, Niyah’s beautiful spirit, creativity, laughter, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Collin Michael Lacaze, who left us far too soon on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. He was born on August 20, 2009. Collin was just 16 years old, yet he brought so much joy and light into the lives of everyone who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Collin’s honor at St. Rita Catholic Church in Alexandria at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, with Reverend Anthony “Raj” Dharmaraj and Reverend Luke LaFleur officiating. Following the service, Collin will be laid to rest in Memory Lawn Cemetery in Natchitoches at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

Pallbearers will be Blake Foster, Thomas Huff, Kendrick Wright, Mason Jarred, James Tichner, Kane Givens, and Brendon Cyphers.

Honorary pallbearers will be the ASH Baseball team and Coaches.

While this loss is deeply felt, the family members invite all who knew and loved Collin to come together to celebrate his life. A visitation will be held at The Entertainment Center-Laborde Earles Coliseum, on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. During this time of remembrance, a Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., bringing everyone together in love and prayer.

Collin was a vibrant young man who was currently a Junior at ASH. He was passionate about baseball playing on the winning World Series teams at 5 and 13 years old. He thrived in the moments he spent on the diamond, where his spirit and enthusiasm inspired his teammates. He was also a budding entrepreneur, having embarked on a Car Wash business that showcased his creativity, attention to detail, and drive. Collin’s determination and work ethic shone brightly in everything he pursued. He was an honor student with a 4.2 GPA and member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

In addition to his entrepreneurial spirit, Collin had a heart for the community. He dedicated his time to volunteer work, always looking for ways to lend a helping hand to those in need. He had a love for the great outdoors; fishing was one of his favorite pastimes, where he found joy and peace by the water. Collin also took great pride in his Mustang, which symbolized his adventurous nature and love for life.

Collin is survived by his loving parents, Michael Shawn and Jamie Jacobs LaCaze; brother, Luke LaCaze; grandparents, Rodney and Cathy Jacobs; grandfather, Louis LaCaze; grandmother, Cindy Harper; his constant companion and love of his life, Adelyn Francis, his dog Tucker, and numerous other family and friends.

The family wishes to thank the Rapides Hospital Trauma Department, ASH Baseball Family, Billy Doyal, Lynn Diaz, Kelli Robertson, Thomas Huff and Michelle Desoto, Madison Daigle, Beth Thibadeax, Whitney Foster, Alyssa Rachal, and Dr. Trey Jackson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alexandria Rescue Center, ASH Baseball or M.A.D.D.

He will be deeply missed, but his light will continue to shine brightly in our memories.

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By JIM BUTLER

Julius Layfield’s legal issues date to at least 2006, none as consequential as the current one.

Layfield, 45, of Alexandria is accused of running over and killing a teenager, critically injuring another and fleeing into the night.

He was arrested Wednesday and charged with three felony counts in the death of Collin Lacaze and the injuring of Addy Francis, both 16.

Mayfield remained in lockup Thursday under $300,000 bond, a much-discussed amount on social media with the “too lows” clearly the predominant opinion.

Authorities have not yet said why the youths were standing on the side of Eddie Williams Avenue, a relatively short distance from Layfield’s residence on Richland Road, or whether others were at the scene near Tulane Avenue.

Eddie Williams is a relatively straight road paralleling the east side of I49 from Broadway to beyond Sugarhouse Road.  

Readily available records show Layfield, a Pollock resident at the time, was charged in Terrebonne Parish with felony possession of a Schedule IV Controlled Dangerous Substance in July 2006.

Disposition of that case is not readily available online, a normal operating procedure in clerks of court offices.

Rapides deputies booked Layfield, then of Alexandria, on a trespassing charge in 2014.

In 2017, then living in Pollock,  he was arrested by Grant deputies and charged with possession of crystal meth, probation violation and an outstanding warrant in Rapides.

The parole charge indicates a Department of Corrections sentence at some point.

 Rapides arrested him on a contempt count in May 2021. Layfield was held under $100,000 bond and subsequently arrested on a parole violation charge and released to DOC.

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A Pineville lawmaker’s effort to strip private companies of eminent domain authority over carbon capture projects is dead in the House following a contentious committee vote Tuesday, though two companion measures giving Rapides Parish and all Louisiana parishes a vote on carbon sequestration projects remain alive — and property rights advocates say the fight is moving to the Senate.

House Bill 7, the Louisiana Landowners Protection Act authored by House Speaker Pro Tempore Mike Johnson (R-Pineville), failed 12-7 in the House Committee on Natural Resources and Energy after a nearly five-hour standing-room-only hearing packed with landowners and lobbyists. Crowd outbursts prompted the committee chairman to call for order multiple times.

HB 7 would have repealed a 2020 state law allowing private companies to use eminent domain to acquire easements over private property for carbon capture and CO2 pipeline infrastructure. Johnson, who voted for the 2020 law, said he now regrets that vote. “I didn’t ask enough questions. I didn’t ask any questions,” Johnson said. “Now that’s a contradiction against our U.S. and Louisiana constitutions we have to correct.”

Industry groups testified against the bill, with Louisiana Chemical Association President and CEO David Cresson warning that industrial projects tied to carbon capture in the state are valued at over $100 billion. “Louisiana’s competing directly with Texas, Mississippi and others for that capital,” Cresson said.

HB 7 is the first of more than 20 carbon capture bills filed this session to receive a committee hearing. Two companion bills by Johnson remain pending without a hearing date — HB 6, which would give Rapides Parish governing authorities a vote on whether CCS projects may proceed in the parish, and HB 5, which would extend that same authority statewide.

The 2026 legislative session continues through June 1.

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The Ruby-Kolin Fire Department responded to 42 calls for service in March, logging a total of 285 hours on incidents, according to its latest monthly report.

That total accounts for nearly 38 percent of the entire month, or approximately 11 full days spent actively serving the community.

Call types for March included 15 medical calls, 11 grass and wildland fires, five dispatched and cancelled calls, three motor vehicle accidents, three public service calls, two structure fires, one kitchen fire, one fire alarm and one power line down incident.

Year-to-date, the department has responded to 137 calls, averaging about 45 calls per month. At the same point last year, the department had recorded 90 calls, reflecting a 52 percent increase in call volume.

Department officials noted that the steady rise in calls highlights the continued demand on personnel, who respond at all hours to meet the needs of the community.

The department expressed appreciation for its members’ commitment and service, emphasizing their role in maintaining consistent emergency response coverage throughout the area.

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