A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Bob McBride at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral with Msgr. James Ferguson, JCL officiating. Entombment will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens Mausoleum under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until time of mass at the church on Tuesday.

Bob McBride passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Those to cherish him are Hilda Smith McBride, his wife of almost 67 years; his daughter Deborah McBride Novotny-Upton (Greg); his sons, David Michael McBride (Elissa) and Robert Daniel McBride (Julie); his grandchildren, Warren Ehlers (Storm), Martin Novotny (Mariena) and Aaron Novotny, Michael McBride, Sean McBride, Fenton McBride and Greta McBride; his great-children, Rowan Ehlers, Maple Ehlers and Nathan Novotny, and a great many nieces and nephews.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Rufus Marion McBride and Ruth Ola Futrell McBride; his sisters Frankie McBride Lofton and Jo Nell McBride Stewart; his brothers, Howard Lee McBride, Dalton McBride, Charles Ray McBride and Travis McBride.

Born in a time when life was driven by working the land to be able to eat was a means of survival.

Bob came from a farming family coping with the depression era and the beginnings of WWII. He carried his work ethic acquired by honest humble parents, four brothers and two sisters. Attending Louisiana College, LSU and Ottawa University he had long career in healthcare. He was a medical technologist, Lab Director and hospital administrator. In later years he became involved with nursing home management and group home supervision. He officially retired at the age of 81.

During his vast careers he shared his life with his wife of almost 67 years, raising three children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

If you knew Bob, you could trust his word. He showed up for everybody else first. He was undeniably a kind soul. He was a quiet man with fair and careful thought. Bob’s life was centered in kindness and sincerity. If you are reading this, you know all of these words barely scratched the surface nor address the breadth of Bob’s gift of love and caring commitment to an honorable life.

A memorial service for Cindy Kaye Bordelon, of Pineville, will be set at a later date.

Cindy Bordelon, age 54, passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Avoyelles Hospital in Marksville.

Cindy had a deep love for fishing and found peace and joy outdoors. A hard worker through and through, she approached life with determination, a bubbly spirit, and a smile that rarely left her face. Known for her big heart and genuine love for animals, she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for. She proudly worked at the Daiquiri Hut for seven years, where her positive attitude and friendly nature left a lasting impression on coworkers and customers.

Those left to cherish her memory are her mother, Cheryl Bordelon of Pineville; brother, Kenneth Bordelon of Alexandria; sister, Brandy Bordelon (Brandy) of Hessmer; nephew, Zaylen Gauthier of Hessmer; and her niece, Madison Bordelon of Alexandria.

She was preceded in death by her father, James Louis Bordelon; and her nephew, Kobe Bordelon.

The family requests that no one send flowers. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Ms. Cheryl Bordelon in honor of Cindy Kaye Bordelon.

Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Home of Marksville (334 Acton Rd.) has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Paula was born in 1896. In 1903, when Paula was six years old, her father died from a lung hemorrhage. Her mother was left with only his meager pension to raise Paula and her brother. In 1907, when Paula was 11 years old and her brother was 18, her mother died from breast cancer. The government provided them with a small pension to ease their burden. Paula’s brother, a romantic, idealistic, and fantasy-oriented teenager, was away at the time of his mother’s death studying fine arts. He dreamed of being a famous artist. He wanted everyone around the world to know his name. He had little money, but he knew he would have better opportunities to earn money than his 11-year-old sister, so he selflessly transferred his share of the pension to her. Paula’s brother sometimes sold a watercolor painting or two to get by, but most of the time he took whatever manual labor job he could get.

For years, Paula and her brother had little contact. When they saw each other they bickered, as most siblings do but they had genuine affection for each other. Paula’s brother struggled to build his reputation as a painter. They both took menial jobs just to survive. He fought during World War I but never gave up on his dream. After the war, he tried to build his reputation as an artist again, but few people had money to buy non-essential items such as watercolor paintings. Paula’s brother began working in politics, but continued painting. When Paula lost her job because of her connection to him, he began sending her money each month to help. He fought during World War II and painted when he had the opportunity. Paula’s brother considered himself, “an artist by nature and not a politician.” He said, “I will end my life as an artist.” In April 1945, Paula saw her brother for the last time. During their visit, they talked for a short time. When it was time for her to leave, he gave her a large amount of money. Two weeks later, he died from a gunshot wound.

Paula lived off the money that her brother had given her for several years and then returned to menial jobs for survival. She died in poverty in 1960. At the time of Paula’s brother’s death, few people knew him as an artist. Now, practically everyone knows his name. His paintings are in collections all over the world and often fetch high prices when they come up for auction. Sometimes, people protest the sale of his paintings. Most people are interested in his paintings, not because of their beauty, but for another reason entirely. For several decades, Paula Wolff kept a secret. She was living under an assumed last name. In the 1930s, Paula’s brother insisted that she adopt the last name Wolff to shield her from his reputation. He was still protecting her. You see, Paula’s real last name was Hitler. Her brother was Adolf.

Sources:

1. Daily News (Sydney, Australia), September 22, 1939, p.1.

2. The Daily News Leader (Staunton, Virginia), November 22, 1992, p.8.

3. The Bolton News, September 27, 2006, p.4.

4. “Alois Hitler Sr.,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11646/alois-hitler.

5. “Klara Pölzl Hitler,” Find a Grave, accessed January 10, 2026, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/11645/klara-hitler.

November 23, 1966 – It’s 1:30 and I’m standing in line at the Alexandria City Hall utilities office waiting to pay deposits necessary to get service turned on in apartment we’re moving into after our wedding in three days.

(Why and how I’m doing it the day before Thanksgiving is another story).

There’s quite a hubbub in the adjacent hall separating the city offices from Convention Hall meeting area.

Reaching the head of the line, I ask the clerk what’s going on next door.

Oh, she answers, that King guy is having some sort of meeting. I pay, get receipt and go toward the hallway leading to the Murray Street exit.

At the access door in the glass panels then in place two of the largest men I had ever seen point me back toward Third Street.  Turning, I see Dr. King and another man ushered in to the crowded hall from Murray Street.

(King was shorter than I expected, perhaps result of only having seen him on television.)

Thinking back, I believe the other was Dr. J.K. Haynes Sr., then executive director of the Louisiana Education Association and a legendary figure in his own right.

The LEA was the organization of black teachers. The Louisiana Teachers Association was its white counterpart. It would a decade or so before the two merged as the Louisiana Association of Educators.

We never were in hurry about such things.

King was in town to speak to the LEA and public at a packed parish Coliseum that night. The afternoon gathering was apparently one of association officials and annual meeting delegates.

Don’t recall seeing uniformed law enforcement officers. Not that there weren’t any, just don’t recall noticing, and no reason to have done so.  

November 13, 1967 – First day as worker on Town Talk telegraph/wire desk.  Shift started at 4 a.m., stripping overnight wire service transmissions, sorting by topic – world, national, Washington, etc- for desk editors’ use when they arrived at 5 a.m. to begin putting the afternoon’s edition together.

April 5, 1968 – On the teletype as my day began:

– – –

MEMPHIS, TENN., APRIL 4 (AP) – Nobel Laureate Martin Luther King Jr., father of non-violence in the  American civil rights movement, was killed by an assassin’s bullet Thursday night. 

– – –

During the rest of that turbulent year and five more newspapering decades nothing would shock me so.

By Rich Dupree

With news late last week of another longtime Alexandria business announcing their closure, the economic picture here sure takes another hit. But whatever the reason behind the closing of Haverty’s Furniture, good real estate will always be in play.


“I have filled him with divine spirit, with ability, intelligence, and knowledge in every kind of craft, to devise artistic designs…” – from Exodus 31:3–4


First United Methodist Church Alexandria is opening the new year with two public invitations to engage art, faith, and reflection through hands-on creative practice.


On Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10AM, the Urban Sketching Art Ministry with Rev. Jean Sanders meets at Tamp & Grind Coffee in downtown Alexandria. The event is open to the public and free to attend, welcoming participants of all experience levels. This gathering marks the restart of the Urban Sketching cycle, returning to its original meeting place. Participants will meet for coffee and fellowship before heading out into the surrounding area to sketch together. No prior sketching experience is required; the emphasis is on presence, community, and creative engagement rather than artistic ability. 


Next month, FUMCA will host a Winter Art & Prayer Retreat titled “Visions, Dreams, & Schemes, Oh My!” on February 6–7, 2026.

Led by Rev. Jean Sanders and Beth Ferguson Moore, the retreat begins Friday evening from 5:30–7:30PM with “Visions,” a guided vision-board-making session facilitated by Moore. The practice is intended to help participants remain attentive to direction and intention after the early momentum of New Year resolutions fades.



Saturday’s session, “Dreams & Schemes,” runs from 9AM to 3PM and explores questions of identity, spiritual discernment, and the meaning of planning in a faith context. Through multi-media art-making interwoven with scripture, prayer, and meditation, participants are invited into a reflective, creative process. The retreat is designed as dedicated time for personal renewal and exploration.

Participation is $30. Call the FUMCA church office at 318-445-5696 to register. 



Together, these offerings reflect First United Methodist Church Alexandria’s ongoing commitment to creative ministry, providing accessible spaces where art and spirituality can be explored thoughtfully and honestly.

Visit www.fumca.org for more information on First United Methodist Church of Alexandria.

LISTEN NOW

“I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

“Five score years ago a great American in whose symbolic shadow we stand today signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree is a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity. But 100 years later the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later the life of the Negro is still badly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination.

“One hundred years later the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself in exile in his own land. So we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

“In a sense we’ve come to our nation’s capital to cash a check. When the architects of our Republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men—yes, black men as well as white men—would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. . . .

“We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protests to degenerate into physical violence. . . . The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to distrust all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny.

“. . . We cannot walk alone. And as we walk we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, “When will you be satisfied?” We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality.

“We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities.

“We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro’s basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their adulthood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating “For Whites Only.”

“We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and the Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote.

“No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream. . . .

“I say to you today, my friends, though, even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up, live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

“I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave-owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I have a dream . . . I have a dream that one day in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification, one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

“I have a dream today . . .

“This will be the day when all of God’s children will be able to sing with new meaning. “My country, ’tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim’s pride, from every mountain side, let freedom ring.” And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania. Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado. Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California.

“But not only that. Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia. Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee. Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi, from every mountain side. Let freedom ring . . .

“When we allow freedom to ring—when we let it ring from every city and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God’s children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, “Free at last, Free at last, Great God a-mighty, We are free at last.”

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office took part in the annual Students Exploring Career Opportunities (SECO) Expo, an event designed to introduce tenth-grade students across Central Louisiana to a wide range of career paths.

The SECO Expo is presented each year by The Orchard Foundation in partnership with nine public school districts in Central Louisiana. The student-focused event features interactive simulations and hands-on activities aimed at increasing engagement and sparking interest in future careers.

As a participating exhibitor, deputies with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spoke with students about careers in law enforcement and showcased some of the equipment and tools used in their daily work.

The goal of the interaction was to give students a firsthand look at the responsibilities and opportunities associated with a career in public safety.

At the conclusion of the event, students voted for the exhibitors they enjoyed most, and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office was selected as one of the top exhibitors.

Sheriff’s Office officials said the recognition was meaningful, but the greater achievement was the opportunity to connect with students and make a positive impact. Deputies expressed hope that some of the students may one day pursue careers in law enforcement.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office thanked The Orchard Foundation for the opportunity to participate and indicated plans to return for the event next year.

Rapides Parish law enforcement agencies are set to benefit from new federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget.

According to a press release issued Jan. 15, Congresswoman Letlow secured $1.3 million in Community Project Funding to support law enforcement agencies across Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District. The funding was approved through the FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill, which recently cleared Congress.

For Rapides Parish, the funding will be distributed through the Red River Delta Law Enforcement Planning Council and will support equipment and vehicle purchases for the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, the City of Alexandria Police Department, and the City of Pineville Police Department.

The funding is intended to enhance public safety by providing updated law enforcement equipment and technology, including police cruisers, K-9 resources, correctional surveillance systems, automatic external defibrillators, body armor, mobile data terminals, in-unit mobile radios, license plate readers, security camera systems, portable radios, and other public safety tools.

Congresswoman Letlow stated the funding was secured to ensure law enforcement agencies, particularly in rural communities, have access to reliable equipment that allows them to respond quickly to emergencies and better protect residents.

The investment is expected to strengthen law enforcement operations across Rapides Parish by improving officer safety, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and expanding the use of modern technology in day-to-day policing.

Members of the Alexandria Lions Club, along with representatives from District 8-I, attended the LIO Midwinter Conference held this weekend at the Louisiana Lions Camp.

During the conference, Lion Ethel presented Lion Ray Cecil with a quilt made from squares designed by Lions from across MD8. The presentation highlighted the collaboration and fellowship among Lions throughout the district.

Leos from District L also participated in the weekend’s activities, joining Lions in a service project at the camp. Club members said the event provided an opportunity for service, teamwork, and connection with fellow Lions from around the region.

The Alexandria Lions Club noted the weekend was both productive and enjoyable, reinforcing the organization’s ongoing commitment to service and community involvement.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions

Jan. 18

Demarcus Dewayne Cannon, 43, Killeen – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, running a red light, $1,200 bail;

Austin Coleman, 34, Alexandria – OWI first offense, simple obstruction of highway, $1,500 bail;

Timothy Dallmann, 33, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Catlin Lee Lair, 35, Moreauville – OWI first offense, driving under suspension, open container, improper lane usage, contempt of non support, $1,300 bail.

Jan. 17

Sheldon Lee Bennett Sr., 36, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, switched license plate, failure to secure registration, safety belt violation, $2,850 bail;

Spencer Theralis Lavalais, 34, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Jacob Zavier McDaniel, 23, Church Point – OWI first offense, possession of marijuana, no child restraint system, modified exhaust, $1,700 bail;

Jody Cain Moore, 41, Pineville – driving under suspension, operating without insurance, expired MVI sticker, nine counts contempt of court, $108,300 bail;

Michael Wallace Proveaux, 30, Pineville – contempt of court, possession of drug paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Patrick Dewayne Smith, 33, Alexandria – two counts producing distributing manufacturing fentanyl, producing distributing manufacturing CDS, aggravated assault, resisting an officer, flight from an officer, $1,000 bail.

Jan. 16

Phillip Joseph Cali, 38, Mastic, NY – operating an unsafe vehicle, obstruction of highway, resisting an officer, driver’s license required, $800 bail;

Dillan Thomas Carriker, 19, Pineville – possession of handgun by a juvenile, possession of marijuana, $20,500 bail;

Jayron Drummer, 23, Pineville – possession of firearm by a convicted felon, parole violations, tail lamps, $25,100 bail;

Jeffrey Wayne Ivy, 36, Ball – three counts stalking first, three counts criminal trespass, disturbing the peace, $5,000 bail;

Leo William Joseph, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, bank fraud, contempt failure to pay fine, $2,500 bail;

David James Normand, 62, Pineville – possession of CDS, Louisiana fugitive, $1,500 bail;

Darin Prince, 38, Pollock – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Jaylin Roberts, 23, Pineville – dating partner abuse child endangerment, domestic abuse battery strangulation, resisting an officer, $26,500 bail;

Terrick Gwayne Sewell, 37, Alexandria – criminal conspiracy, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, parole violations, $50,000 bail;

Kinnie Lee Ware, 43, Pineville – driving under suspension, turn signal lamp required, five counts contempt of court, $5,200 bail;

Amber H. Williams, 34, Alexandria – possession of CDS, two counts legend drug possession, paraphernalia, no insurance, no driver’s license, expired MVI sticker, improper lane usage, tail lamps red light, $3,500 bail;

Anthony Dewayne Williams, 47, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, two counts contempt of court, $1,000 bail;

Jansan Jonte-Tyrone Williams, 26, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, contempt of court, $4,500 bail.

Jan. 15

Amanda Marie Blalock, 37, Calcasieu – 32 counts aggravated incest, 32 counts carnal knowledge of a juvenile, domestic abuse battery, indecent behavior with juveniles, aggravated sodomy, $1.3 million bail;

Dustin Heath Coleman, 39, Georgetown – two counts possession of CDS, theft, illegal possession of stolen things, criminal conspiracy, two counts possession of paraphernalia, legend drug possession, Louisiana fugitive, $6,000 bail;

Curry Michael Cooper Jr., 39, Hessmer – three counts theft, three counts trespassing, three counts criminal damage to property, Louisiana fugitive, $30,500 bail;

Timothy James Coutee, 44, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of paraphernalia, bicycle reflectors, improper bicycle operation, contempt of court, $7,200 bail;

Danae Nicole Dural, 21, Pineville – aggravated battery, $1,000 bail;

Elias Hanna, 24, Alexandria – second degree rape, $50,000 bail;

Jamie Lea Hicks, 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $2,000 bail;

Donquerious Johnson, 26, Alexandria – two counts producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, no gas cap, home invasion, six counts possession of firearm by a convicted felon, producing manufacturing distributing with intent, $910,100 bail;

Jimmy Allen Johnson, 59, Pineville – OWI second offense, open container, careless operation of a vehicle, operating a vehicle under suspension of certain prior offenses, $25,700 bail;

Areon Delshawn Jones, 33, Alexandria – second degree murder, $1 million bail;

Lonnie Ray Joseph, 38, Alexandria – second degree battery, simple burglary, $505,000 bail;

Marques Dcortez Joseph, 30, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, improper turn, parish probation violation, $3,600 bail;

Bradley Kyle Kircher, 34, Boyce – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Fairon Ranis Lindo, 27, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, violation of protective orders, parole violations, $100,000 bail;

Lilly Marie Luviano, 30, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $4,500 bail;

Franklin Neal III, 44, Boyce – possession of CDS, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, $6,500 bail;

Antoine Latrel Raymond, 20, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, no driver’s license, driving lamps, $2,200 bail;

Jaquarius Deonte Sewell, 30, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, $50,000 bail;

Miesha Fana Smith, 34, Alexandria – possession of CDS, driving under suspension, view obstructed, $1,200 bail;

Christopher James Tanner, 19, Alexandria – illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, $3,000 bail;

Albert Walton, 23, Pineville – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, probation violation, $2,000 bail;

Jalia Nashai Washington, 23, Alexandria – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, open container, driving under suspension, $1,800 bail.

Michael Eugene Holloway, 59, of Alexandria, entered eternal rest on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center, Alexandria, LA.

He was a loving son and brother. Michael was a free spirit who took life as it came. He loved music, especially the guitar, and he was his sister’s baby. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd Eugene and Lillie Mae Lee Holloway; one brother, David Holloway; and one brother-in-law, Gregg Rouch.
Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include one brother, Daniel Holloway of Alexandria; two sisters, Marie McAdams (Paul) of Maryville, Tennessee, and Lynn Rouch of Alexandria; and numerous nieces and nephews.
All funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, LA.

Stacey Lyn Bailey Smith, age 52, of Alexandria, Louisiana, passed away on January 15, 2026.

Stacey was born on September 13, 1973, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to James Bailey and Ruby Tuzzolo. She was a proud graduate of Hicks High School.

Above all else, Stacey was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and devoted Mimi. She lived her life side by side with her husband, sharing 33 years of love, laughter, and partnership. Through him, she discovered a deep passion for fishing and hunting, enjoying the simple joy of being outdoors together.

Somewhere along the way, wife became Mama and Mama became Mimi. When the grandbabies came along, Stacey stood on business. When those little critters came along, everyone else became chopped liver. IYKYK.

Stacey worked faithfully for Wal-Mart for 16 years and later served in the cafeteria at Hicks High School, where she always had a smile waiting for the kids. She was known for her strong work ethic, kind heart, and willingness to help wherever she was needed.

She was a true Dolly Parton fanatic, never missing a chance to celebrate the music and spirit she loved so much.

Stacey never was one who liked attention but, was somehow always the life of the party.

Stacey also had an endless amount of love for her beloved Bubba, her kids: J-Bird, and Stormcat; her grandbabies: Pusscat, Kreek Kreek, Rooster, and Ro Ro-each one holding a special place in her heart.

Stacey is survived by her parents James and Joy Bailey and Charles and Ruby Tuzzolo; Brothers, Chad Bailey (Donna) and Jason Bailey and sisters, Crystal Williams (JD) and Candice Bailey; her loving husband of 33 years, Kendall Smith; her son, James Kenneth Smith; her daughter, Stormi Lynn Smith (Charlie); and her cherished grandchildren, Shelby, Kreek Whitley, Ruby, and Roland, who brought her immeasurable joy and father-in-law Kenneth Smith.

She was preceded in death by her precious granddaughter, Kyndal Rain Dowden, and her mother-in-law, Janet Marie Smith.

She is survived by a host of nephews, nieces, family, friends and special sister Regina Kay Smith.

A service celebrating Stacey’s life will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Labby Funeral Home. Burial will follow at LaCamp Pentecostal Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 18th from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Stacey’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and devotion to family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Here’s my latest Q & A

About Ida

Beginnings are tricky, but here we are—fresh page, blinking cursor, and a head full of questions. I’m Ida B. Torn, a lifelong Southerner from Kenner, Louisiana, who’s spent years working in newsrooms, design studios, and public service. I’ve seen my share of life’s chaos and comedy—and learned that sometimes, folks just need straight answers and a little laughter along the way.

Paid Content

Sheriff’s detectives have arrested a Hessmer man following an investigation into multiple copper wire thefts in the Echo-Poland area near LA-1 South.

Over the past week, detectives investigated several incidents involving the theft of AT&T copper wire. Authorities reported that suspects cut telephone service lines from utility poles, causing poles to break and disrupting telephone service to residents and a nearby school. Investigators said equipment used in the thefts, including clothing items, was left behind at multiple scenes and submitted for DNA analysis.

Detectives also reported that piles of aluminum sheathing and wire were left along nearby railroad tracks, creating a potential hazard that could threaten the safe operation of Union Pacific and Kansas City Railroad trains.

Officials estimate the suspects obtained approximately $100,000 worth of copper over the course of a week and caused more than $30,000 in damage to AT&T property.

On Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated an operation to locate and apprehend the suspects. The operation included deputies from the Crime Suppression Unit, Patrol-Resident Deputy Division, RADE K-9, and Special Operations.

Around midnight, CSU deputies observed a white Ford F-150 stop along the roadway in the area where the thefts had occurred. When deputies attempted to make contact, the driver turned off the vehicle’s lights and fled. Deputies pursued the vehicle, which was intercepted near Lamourie Road and LA-457. The driver, identified as Curry Michael Cooper of Hessmer, was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

With assistance from detectives from the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, RPSO detectives established probable cause and obtained a search warrant for Cooper’s residence in Hessmer. During the search, investigators located leftover wire sheathing, aluminum, multiple cutting tools, wire strippers, narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.

Cooper was booked on three counts of trespassing or remaining after forbidden, three counts of criminal damage greater than $1,000 but less than $50,000, and three counts of theft greater than $5,000 but less than $25,000. He is currently being held on a $30,500 bond. Charges from the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office remain pending.

Sheriff’s detectives stated that the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are possible. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact Detective Ronald Dye at the Criminal Investigations Division Main Office at 318-473-6700, the RPSO Main Office at 318-473-6700, or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative proceeding.

Arrestee:
Curry Michael Cooper, Jr., 39
725 Little Corner Road, Hessmer, LA

Charges:
Three counts trespassing or remaining after forbidden
Three counts criminal damage greater than $1,000 and less than $50,000
Three counts theft greater than $5,000 and less than $25,000

By JIM BUTLER

Rules of the contest have changed; the prize is the same.

Voters need to remember the changes as this year’s US Senate campaign heats up.

The “jungle primary” that is the only way about half the parish’s voters have ever cast a ballot in other than presidential primaries is out and party preference primary is in.

On May 16 only registered Democrats can vote for that party’s candidates and the same for Republicans in the hotly contested bid for Bill Cassidy’s seat.

The Legislature changed the law to apply closed primary voting to congressional, Louisiana Supreme Court, Public Service Commission and Board of Elementary and Secondary Education contests.

The reversal does not apply to any other elected office voting, including this year’s municipal and School Board voting.

Winners of the party nominating contests advance to the November 3 General Election when voters can pull the lever they choose regardless party registration.

Now is the time to check your registration status. Many registered to vote as one affiliate or the other, or none, years ago and haven’t had to worry with it since.

On May 16, for instance, if you want to vote for a Republican candidate but are a registered Democrat, you can’t, and viceversa.

Deadline to change is 30 days before the voting, 20 if you do it online.

Persons registered as No Party will have to make a declaration as Republican or Democrat at the polling place, or not vote.

 Men and women registered with any of the other parties certified in the state will not be allowed to vote in the primaries.

According to Secretary of State records, as of December 31 about half the parish’s 80,677 registered voters are 60 or younger. The state went to the open primary system in 1975.

A little more about the parish’s registered voters: 

• Republicans – 32,297; 

• Democrats – 26,324; 

• All other, or none – 22,056; 

• White – 52,942; 

• Black – 23,932; 

• Males – 35,626; 

• Females – 45,001. 

The state, records show, has 2.96 million registered voters. Of those 1.08 million are Democrat, 1.03 million Republican and 900,000 other affiliations.

The City of Pineville has announced Rose Waguespack Hayes as its 2026 Mardi Gras Queen, recognizing her longstanding commitment to service and advocacy for veterans throughout the community.

City officials noted that Hayes’ dedication to supporting veterans reflects Pineville’s continued emphasis on honoring those who have served in the armed forces. Her work spans multiple organizations focused on remembrance, outreach, and direct support for veterans and their families.

Hayes serves as the Location Coordinator for Wreaths Across America at Alexandria National Cemetery, overseeing efforts to honor fallen service members during the holiday season. She is also an auxiliary member and public relations officer for the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, an auxiliary member of AmVets Post 7 where she participates in the Sunday Cookout Crew providing monthly meals for local veterans, an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary, and a Disabled American Veterans auxiliary life member.

City leaders said Hayes’ extensive involvement demonstrates a deep and sustained commitment to ensuring veterans are recognized and supported year-round.

Hayes will be featured during Pineville’s Night of Lights Parade, the only nighttime Mardi Gras parade held in Rapides Parish. The parade is scheduled for Friday, February 6, at 7 p.m., with festivities beginning at the Pineville Riverfront. The route will travel along Main Street and conclude at the “Y” split at Donahue Ferry Road and Military Highway, just past Louisiana Christian University.

She will be joined during the parade by Grand Marshal Col. Deville as Pineville celebrates the upcoming Mardi Gras season.

Rapides Parish Fire District 12 has taken delivery of new life-saving equipment made possible through a federal grant awarded last year.

The district was notified in September 2025 that it had been awarded a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant that was originally applied for in 2024. Funding for the grant was temporarily delayed due to a government shutdown, but once operations resumed and the funding was secured, the district moved forward with purchasing new equipment.

An order was placed in December, and the equipment arrived last week. Through the grant, the district purchased 20 new MSA G1 self-contained breathing apparatus units along with 20 spare cylinders from Casco Fire Equipment.

The new equipment replaces SCBAs that are approximately 22 years old, are no longer supported with replacement parts, and have been in service with the district for more than two decades. The upgraded SCBAs will allow all district apparatus to meet current PIAL requirements.

District officials expressed appreciation to all individuals and partners involved in the grant process, noting that the upgrade would not have been possible without their support.