Boyce Council wants appointed, not elected, police chief

By JIM BUTLER

Boyce Town Council members propose making police chief an appointed instead of elected position.

A motion added to the agenda during a special council meeting March 17 calls for a special election setting a referendum on the question.

Adding the item and voting to approve it was unanimous (motion by Lacretia McCoy Price, second by Leslie Aaron, ayes by Peggy Brew, Mary Fisher) as required by state law. Councilwoman Donna Lofton was absent, according to published minutes.

Chief Ronald Goudeau’s third term ends this year. Since early 2024 he has been the only department member.

The town contracted with the Sheriff’s Office to provide law enforcement, saving about $75,000 a month in the face of a budget crunch.

The council will hold a public hearing on the question at 6 p.m. April 9.


Flags fly at half-staff today in honor of former Sheriff William Earl Hilton

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has issued Executive Order No. JML 26-031 directing flags of the United States and the State of Louisiana to be flown at half-staff today, Friday, March 27, from sunrise to sunset over the State Capitol and all state buildings, in honor of former Rapides Parish Sheriff William Earl Hilton.

Hilton, 80, died March 23 following a hit-and-run incident at his Hineston-area home. He served as Rapides Parish Sheriff from 1992 to 2008 and again from 2012 to 2020, accumulating more than 50 years of law enforcement service to the parish.

A funeral service for Hilton is scheduled for noon today at Calvary Baptist Church in Alexandria.

Ladonna Delrie, 53, of Pollock, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with his death and is being held on $5.3 million bond.


Sources: Governor Jeff Landry Executive Order No. JML 26-031, March 26, 2026; Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office; KLFY, March 26, 2026.


UPDATE: Downed aircraft located near Cleco Lake

UPDATE — Friday, March 27, 2026

Aviation safety records have identified the downed aircraft as a Beechcraft B200GT King Air 250, registration number N886DS, registered to an owner in California. The aircraft was destroyed on impact.

As of Thursday morning, the National Transportation Safety Board has not yet released a preliminary report, citing the difficult recovery conditions. In a statement issued Wednesday, March 25, the NTSB said it “will continue to work with the FAA who is on the ground,” adding that the agency “does not conduct the recovery efforts.” The NTSB further stated that once the aircraft has been retrieved from the swamp, the FAA will provide a damage assessment before the NTSB proceeds with its formal investigation.

The wreckage remains in the densely vegetated, swampy terrain on the west side of Lake Rodemacher — also known as Cleco Lake — near the community of Sharp, west of Boyce. The FAA has confirmed that only the pilot was aboard at the time of the crash. The pilot’s identity has not yet been officially released.

The Rapides Parish Journal will continue to monitor this story. The NTSB preliminary report will be published at ntsb.gov/investigations once the aircraft has been recovered and assessed.

Updated Sources: Aviation Safety Network, wikibase record 568289, March 2026; NTSB official statement, March 25, 2026; FAA Statements on Aviation Accidents and Incidents, faa.gov, March 2026.

 

UPDATE

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed Monday that one person was killed in a Sunday single-ending plane crash in rural Rapides Parish.

The FAA identified the aircraft as a Beechcraft BE20 registered to a person in California and listed one fatality in its aviation incident database. The agency said only one person was aboard the plane at the time of the crash.

The aircraft came to rest near the edge of Lake Rodemacher — also known as Cleco Lake — near the community of Sharp, west of Boyce.

The National Transportation Safety Board arrived on scene Monday to lead the investigation. All further official information regarding the cause of the crash and the identity of the victim will be released through the NTSB.

ORIGINAL

BOYCE — A downed aircraft discovered Sunday afternoon in a densely wooded swamp near Cleco Lake in Rapides Parish remained inaccessible to search and rescue teams as of late Sunday evening, with the National Transportation Safety Board expected on scene Monday to lead the investigation.

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office received the initial report of a possible downed aircraft at approximately 2:33 p.m. Sunday through the Rapides Parish 911 Center. Deputies and first responders initially shifted search efforts to the Red Store Hill Road area near Boyce after residents reported the aircraft may have gone down in that vicinity.

After hours of searching, the aircraft was located at approximately 5 p.m. on the west side of Cleco Lake, also known as Lake Rodemacher, in a heavily vegetated and swampy area of forest that has made access by ground crews impossible.

As of Sunday evening, no information on the type of aircraft, the number of passengers aboard, or the condition of any occupants has been released. Search and rescue personnel had not yet reached the crash site.

RPSO Chief of Staff Tommy Carnline said the NTSB is expected to be on scene Monday, and that all further information regarding the investigation will be released through that agency.

The following agencies participated in Sunday’s search operations: Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Pineville Fire and Rescue, Alexandria Fire Department, Rapides Parish Fire District No. 2, Cotile Volunteer Fire Department, Flatwoods Volunteer Fire Department, Pafford Ambulance Service, Louisiana State Forestry Service, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The Rapides Parish 911 Center also provided assistance.

The Rapides Parish Journal will continue to follow this story as the NTSB releases additional information.


Louisiana Christian University’s MBA program ranked fourth in state

The Master of Business Administration program at Louisiana Christian University ranks fourth in the state, according to outreachedu.org.

Rankings are based on the following criteria:

  • Program reputation and competitiveness
  • Accreditation and quality assurance
  • Cost and affordability
  • Graduation and employment outcomes
  • Student experience
  • Program flexibility and specializations

Dean of the Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business Dr. Marcia Hardy said the recognition reflects not only LCU’s commitment to academic excellence, but also its mission to develop principled leaders grounded in faith, integrity and service.

“We are thankful to our dedicated faculty, staff and students, as well as the individuals and communities who support us in our efforts to make this accomplishment possible,” Hardy said. “We celebrate this milestone and remain committed in our calling to shape and equip our future business graduates to lead with wisdom, excellence, and guided purpose, and to create a meaningful impact in their professional lives and communities.”

The Jonathan E. Martin MBA program launched in 2022.  The innovative program brings together the best faculty and most comprehensive classes designed for busy professionals who see business as a mission, said Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Henry Robertson.

“To be rated #4 in the state where all the other programs and schools are bigger and older is quite an honor,” Robertson said. “We have proven that quality can be built and offered for students through a Christian perspective.

“Our curriculum will both challenge and enrich students who are ready for their next career enhancement. We hope leadership will send their best and brightest to stay current on the emerging economic trends and be informed by the Christian faith.” 

The MBA program is fully online and consists of 34 hours of coursework that integrates Christian ethical training into business training. Students may begin the program in any semester and may complete the program as full-time or part-time students. For more information, visit the LCU MBA website.

The Ray and Dorothy Young School of Business also offers a Master of Strategic Leadership as well as undergraduate business programs.


Tiger triplets: National media scorn soars as LSU Wades into scoundrel status

The school already boasting two of the biggest public opinion lightning rods in college sports has completed its trifecta.

Already possessing head football coach Lane Kiffin and women’s head basketball coach Kim Mulkey, LSU re-hired a men’s head basketball coach it fired four years ago for NCAA recruiting violations.

Will Wade, who has been in successful survival orbit since the LSU canned him in March 2022 as a human sacrifice to avoid serious sanctions for its cash-cow football program, confirmed in social media just before noon Thursday that he was leaving North Carolina State after one season to run it back with the Tigers.

Immediately, the level of hate from coast-to-coast for LSU sports just raised a couple of notches.

Ain’t it grand?

The immediate reaction of the sanctimonious national media was predictable.

Harump! Isn’t this the school that mouthy hussy Mulkey in April 2021?

Harump! Also, aren’t they the heartless orbs that stole Kiffin from Ole Miss this past December, just a few weeks before the Rebels made the college football playoffs for the first time?

Harump! And now they’re hiring Wade, who was heard on an FBI wiretap talking about “a strong ass offer” he made to allegedly buy a recruit?

Harump? Does LSU possess any morals about the way it does business?

Well, no.

It also had no college football playoff appearances in four seasons under former coach Brian Kelly, and didn’t sniff an NCAA Tournament invite in five seasons under Wade’s replacement and then predecessor Matt McMahon.

These days in college athletics, morals don’t rank high. It’s not even in “other receiving votes.”

If you want to win, there are no rules. You hire the person who not only can do that but also is attractive enough for NIL donors to open their wallets to buy players.

Just a quick reminder about Wade, who in 12 years as a head coach (Chattanooga, VCU, LSU, McNeese and North Carolina State) has never had a losing season while winning almost 70 percent of his games and earning eight NCAA Tournament bids in the last nine seasons (not counting the COVID-canceled 2020 postseason).

From 2017 to 2022 with the Tigers, he was 105-51 overall and 55-33 in the SEC. In the last four seasons, he won 48 regular-season SEC games, tying for the second-most of any league team over that period.

His tenure was the last time the Tigers’ program had a pulse and a palpable vibe. His 2018-19 team won the SEC regular championship and advanced to the Sweet 16. He had three 20-win seasons in his last four years.

Yes, he illegally bought players, probably at bargain-basement prices compared to now when athletes annually hold their head coaches for ransom.

But he purchased players with more talent illegally than the just-fired McMahon did legally. Four of them – Naz Reid, Cam Thomas, Tari Eason and Trendon Watford – are still in the NBA.

More than that, he coached with visible and genuine passion.

His players knew he always had their backs. The LSU fan base loved the way he never backed down from a fight.

In comparison, McMahon was almost invisible. That’s not a criticism. It’s just who he was, a low-key controlled guy, which didn’t fit well.

Neither did his 60-70 (46.2 percent) overall record, including 17-55 (23.6 percent) in the SEC.

In the end, it didn’t matter that the built-in excuses for McMahon of a lack of NIL money and injuries to key players were enough to overlook back-to-back 3-15 SEC records the last two seasons.

Meanwhile, Wade was 50-9 in two years at McNeese from 2023-25 and 20-14 this past season at NC State.

Truth be told, LSU should have hired Wade after last season. One of his final images as McNeese’s coach was hugging then-McNeese president Wade Rousse and athletic director Heath Schroyer.

At that time, those pieces weren’t in place for Wade to return to LSU.

Now, they are. Rousse was named LSU’s new president in early November. Schroyer, just a couple hours ahead of Wade officially announcing he’s reclaiming his Tigers’ hoop throne, said he has been hired as an LSU senior deputy athletic director.

It wasn’t long after that that Wade went to social media to finally confirm the lingering, poorly kept secret. He agreed to a 7-year, $30 million deal with a roster budget commitment exceeding $12 million.

“It’s a chance to go home to a place that means a great deal to me and my family,” Wade tweeted. “The opportunity to return to Louisiana State University is deeply personal.”

Of course, it is. Wade never should have been fired in the first place. He’s coming back to finish the job he started.


Rapides Parish administrators complete leadership development cohort

The Rapides Parish School Board announced that a group of its administrators has successfully completed the “Leading for Better Instruction” cohort through The Orchard Foundation.

The program, which spanned three years, focused on strengthening instructional leadership and supporting professional growth among school administrators. District officials noted that participants demonstrated a continued commitment to improving outcomes for both students and teachers.

School system leaders highlighted the importance of ongoing professional development in advancing district goals and enhancing classroom instruction.

The district also expressed appreciation to The Orchard Foundation for its continued support in developing educational leaders across the region.


Services for retired Sheriff William Earl Hilton – Today

Services for Retired Sheriff William Earl Hilton will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, March 27, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church with Bishop Anthony Mangun, Reverend Jimmy Koonce, and The Reverend Dr. James S. Hardison, Sr. officiating. Burial will be in Fellowship Cemetery, Hineston, under the direction of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria.

The family requests that visitation be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Calvary Baptist from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services.

Mr. Hilton, 80, of Hineston, passed from this life on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Rapides Regional Medical Center, the result of a horrible tragedy.

Sheriff William Earl Hilton served in law enforcement for 50 years, 24 as sheriff.  He was a member of Homewood Baptist Church.

Sheriff Hilton decided as a teenager that one day he would be sheriff because he admired Sheriff Kelly and his dad who was a constable. He spent many days running the halls of the courthouse. Growing up, he was his Dad’s constant companion, from buying horses to serving papers for the Sheriff’s Department. He learned the people and remembered everyone that he met. He had a gift about remembering people and their entire families.

After becoming Sheriff, his total focus was on improving the department. When he started working, the cars were old and had slick tires and no equipment. Pay was low, he started at $325 a month, which was less than his job with the City of Alexandria. He always strived to improve equipment and benefits for his employees. He brought a lot of innovation to the department. Sheriff Hilton founded the Louisiana Youth Academy, Juvenile Boot Camp. He increased parish prison capacity from 278 to almost 1000. He opened additional sub-stations and reduced response time. He established a training academy for corrections officers. He placed a full-time deputy in every school in Rapides Parish to keep our children safe. Using federal grant funds, he obtained a Mobile Command Center and a SWAT Team Response Vehicle.

Sheriff Hilton was very active in civic affairs and the community. He has served on the Region VI Mental Health Advisory Council and the executive board of the Boy Scouts of America Attakappas Council. He has been on the Board of Advisors for Renaissance Home for Youth. He is a past chairman of the Board of Directors for the Food Bank of Central Louisiana; a member of the Advisory Board of the Salvation Army; a member of the Central Louisiana Coalition to Prevent Homelessness; and he has chaired fundraising events for the Heart Fund, the March of Dimes, and the Red Cross.

He treated everyone he met with the same respect from the people catering food at an event to meeting President Bill Clinton. He came from humble beginnings and never forgot that. He would actually get Christmas cards from inmates that he had put in prison because they knew he had treated them fairly.

Sheriff Hilton is a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, Shreveport Consistory, and a member of Oliver Masonic Lodge #84 and Gardner Lodge #482. He is a member of the El Karubah Shrine Temple, and past president of the Cenla Shrine Club.

He is past president of the Rapides Cattleman’s Association and a charter member of the Central Louisiana High School Rodeo Association.

A member of the National Rifle Association, He was an avid sportsman, both hunting and fishing. He is a member of many sportsmen organizations and enjoyed spending time with his son and grandson at his camp at Flatwoods.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James Thomas “Tom” and Modena “Frankie” Hilton; brother, Herbert Hilton; sister, Verna Hilton Fussell.

Sheriff Hilton has been married for 61 years to Billie Faye Gunter Hilton. They have two grown children, Shane Hilton and wife, Laurie and Kristy Dunn and husband, Bubba; one grandchild, Slade Hilton; step grandson, Jaxson Filler.

Pallbearers will be Tommy Bebee, Robert Parker, Keith Parker, Mark Wood, Trey Gist, and Chad Dyess. Honorary Pallbearers will be James “Jam” Downs, Charles Ray Nash, Rocky Willson, Clayton Brister, and Nubbin Melder.

He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the people he served.


Remembering Kay Lynn Dubrock

Funeral services for Mrs. Kay Lynn Dubrock will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Glenmora, with Reverend Robert Jordan officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Pisgah Cemetery, Forest Hill, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Mrs. Dubrock, 76, of Oakdale, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Allen Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Oakdale, LA.

A loving mother and grandmother, she cherished every moment with her family and brought joy to everyone she met. A true cowgirl at heart, she loved her Coca-Cola, watching westerns, and making her famous pancakes, memories her family will treasure forever. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by one son, Camron Hensley; her parents, Joseph and Jessie Dubrock; and one brother, Hobby Dubrock.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory are one daughter, Rhonda Rice (Robert) of Glenmora; one daughter-in-law, Heather Hensley (Brian) of Oakdale; three granddaughters, Kaylee Rice, Jolene Hensley, and Breannia Mata; four grandsons, Kaleb Richey (Nancy), Eli Cloud (Abby), Gaige Johnson, and Keith Gassiott (Haley); ten great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are Rhonda Rice, Kaylee Rice, Eli Cloud, Gaige Johnson, Jason Todd, Robert Gillespie, and Mike Dubrock.


Remembering Michael Gerard Laurent

A Mass of Christian Burial for Michael Gerard Laurent will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church with Rev. Phil Michiels officiating. Interment will follow in Greenwood Memorial Park under the direction of John Kramer & Son Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church.

Michael Gerard Laurent of Alexandria, Louisiana passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 57. He was born on June 7, 1968, to Charles and Betty Laurent.

Although Michael faced many challenges in his life, he never lost his childlike wonder. He had a smile that could brighten any room, loved his DVD collection, and was known to enjoy a coke or two. He enjoyed swimming in the summer as a boy, bowling a round or two, and watching Tom chase Jerry in the classic cartoon Tom & Jerry.

As a boy, Mike attended John Eskew Training Center where he spent his days surrounded by patient, supportive teachers who strive to teach their citizens independence. As he grew into adulthood, he found his role at The Arc and went to work daily to achieve the tasks given to him each day.

Michael participated in Special Olympics as a swimmer, and we have fond memories of those days.

Michael taught our family the true meaning of compassion, patience, and unconditional love. We are better people for having known him.

He is survived by his brother, Charles Laurent III and his wife, Paula, of McQueeny , Texas, his sister, Claire Lacombe and her husband, Billy, of Corpus Christi, Texas, and his sister, Anne Laurent of Alexandria, Louisiana; his nieces, Amber Lush, Rachel Henning, Laura Sanders, and Karen Coats; his nephew, Nicholas Laurent; and three great nephews and two great nieces and (One future great niece).

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Charles & Betty Laurent Jr.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to The Arc (John Eskew Training Center), 1700 Ashley Ave, Alexandria, LA 71301, for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.


Word of the Day: Mendacious

Phonetic: /men·da·cious/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

not telling the truth; lying.
“mendacious propaganda”
 
Similar: lying, untruthful, dishonest

Notice of Death – March 26, 2026

Kay Lynn Dubrock
September 7, 1949 – March 24, 2026
Service: Friday, March 27, 2026, 1pm at Rush Funeral Home, Glenmora.

Michael Gerard Laurent
June 7, 1968 – March 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11am at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Jewel McDole
November 12, 1940 – March 24, 2026
Service: Thursday, April 2, 2026, 10am at Greenwood Memorial Park, Pineville.

Retired Sheriff William Earl Hilton
October 12, 1945 – March 23, 2026
Service: Friday, March 27, 2026, 12pm at Calvary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Brenda Jean Overall
May 24, 1965 – March 23, 2026
Service: Monday, March 30, 2026, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Sadie Laverne Vandevelde
January 16, 1948 – March 23, 2026
Service: Friday, March 27, 2026, 2pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Thelma Moran Neal
March 10, 1936 – March 22, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11am at Pineland Baptist Church, Clifton. 

Rubye Riddle
June 15, 1934 – March 22, 2026
Service: Monday, March 30, 2026, 10:30am at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora. 

Randy Victor Stephens
December 27, 1949 – March 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 1pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

John Calvit Edwards
April 25, 1953 – March 18, 2026
Service: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 1pm at Amiable Baptist Church, Glenmora. 

Richard Wayne Lemoine
June 12, 1950 – March 18, 2026
Service: Friday, March 27, 2026, 10am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Jerry James Landers
April 15, 1948 – March 17, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 12pm at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Mattie Simmons Harris
May 11, 1927 – March 17, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11am at St. John Baptist Church, Lecompte.

Concetta Sotile Fiorenza
July 21, 1924 – March 11, 2026
Service: Friday, May 15, 2026, 10am at Our Lady Of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Cherry Lea Hopson James
July 5, 1952 – February 28, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 1pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

James Paul Clark
March 18, 1938 – February 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, March 28, 2026, 3pm at Emanuel Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com.)

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Location changed for benefit fish fry supporting Captain Joshua Holloway

A benefit fish fry scheduled for Friday, March 27, will now take place at a new location, organizers announced.

The event, hosted by Alexandria Firefighters Local 540, will be held at Four Seasons Bowling Alley, located at 3510 North Boulevard. 

The fundraiser will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until sold out. Plates will be available for $15 and include a three-piece fried fish meal with coleslaw, fries, and a drink.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Captain Joshua Holloway and his family. Organizers are encouraging the community to attend and show support.

Large pre-orders are available by contacting Cory Brumfield at 318-201-0007.

Organizers are also asking the public to help spread the word about the location change to ensure strong turnout for the event.


Audit reflects schools’ accounting issues 

By JIM BUTLER

School Board discussion about cashless transactions a few months back indicated previously noted problems with such accounting lingered across the system. Indeed.

A legislative audit report written in December and posted this week repeats findings of previous years – some schools didn’t yet have the hang of handling cash.

Reports by the board’s internal auditor noted shortcomings during the 2024-25 fiscal year, the state audit report notes.

“The items that were found to be noncompliant and consistently noted at all schools were teacher daily deposit slips not given to  the secretary to be deposited in a timely manner; teacher daily deposit slips not completed with the required date, student name, or student initial; teacher daily deposit slips reporting canteen sales not signed by both workers; receipts and disbursements without sufficient supporting documentation; purchase orders that were not approved prior to purchasing items; invoices or packing slips without the signature of the person receiving the item; disbursements for reimbursements where the receipt was not turned in to the  secretary in a timely manner or paid in accordance with Rapides Parish School Board’s policy;

“Disbursements paid from or transfers to improper accounts; purchase orders not dated; disbursements over $5,000 that were not approved by the Executive Assistant Superintendent of Administration; disbursements for travel or travel-related expense reimbursements that were not approved by the Executive Assistant Superintendent of Administration; disbursements being paid for staff gifts; sales tax being paid on purchases; 

“Fundraiser forms without sufficient supporting documentation; fundraiser forms without prior approval; fundraiser forms not reviewed and signed by the principal; fundraiser forms not completed or not completed accurately; canteen/concession inventory forms and teacher daily deposit slips for canteen/concession not completed or not completed accurately; canteen/concession stand inventory forms not signed by the principal; gate receipts forms not completed or not completed accurately.”

The board audit response notes a computer program installed in November along with training in January should help turn the tide.

Other findings:

  • Inadequate control of school activity funds for schools visited were found at Ruby-Wise Elementary, Brame Middle and Glenmora High; 
  • A similar finding at Buckeye High from 2023-24 was not yet fully resolved;
  • A non-compliance finding in 2022-23 at Arthur F. Smith was still unresolved;
  • And a 2017-18 non-compliance finding regarding some policy procedures at Alexandria Senior High remained outstanding. 

LCU students, faculty, staff serve the community

Hundreds of Louisiana Christian University students, faculty  and staff spent Tuesday afternoon serving the Cenla community. 

SENDLA, which is a phonetic play on the familiar CENLA for Central Louisiana, is rooted in the call of Matthew 28, where Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations.” 

LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson began the university’s first-ever SENDLA event with a campus-wide abbreviated Chapel service, encouraging participants before everyone split into community groups.

“We are going out sharing the gospel in many ways, shapes and forms,” he said.

Participating organizations included First Baptist Pineville, Philadelphia Baptist Church in Alexandria, Family of Grace Church, the Hope House, Fostering Community, the Food Bank of Central Louisiana, Main Street Missions, Rapides Parish Library System, CENLA Pregnancy Center, and Faith Baptist Church in Tioga. 

 Johnson led a group of about 30 students who visited with residents in the neighborhood surrounding the campus. 

“It was good to see young people leading the way,” he said. “We prayed with people, and they opened their hearts to us with their needs, and they shared the needs of the community.”

Danny Cobb, a junior convergence media major, volunteered with First Baptist Church in Pineville.

“This was my first time serving,” he said. “I became a Christian my freshman year in college. I think it’s important for a Christian school, for students to go out into the community.”

Cobb said he helped with a group clean up a yard of a disabled woman to ready it for a ramp to be installed for her to be able to use a wheelchair. 

Al Quartemont, LCU assistant professor of journalism, served with a group led by Faith Baptist Church of Tioga pastor Clark Palmer. The group handed out cookies to customers outside Mac’s Fresh Market and invited those without a home church to visit Faith or Alpine Baptist Church, both in the Tioga community.

“The students enjoyed engaging with the people and giving back to the community,” he said.

Junior Christian studies major Kaelyn Richard served with a group representing the Family of Grace Church outreach team. They went to small businesses in downtown Alexandria.

“Our goal was to love and listen to the community, share the love of God, and share the gospel when we could,” Richard said. “I had a wonderful time. It was also well received by the people we got to pray over and the employees of the businesses we went to. It’s always so fulfilling for me to be able to have the opportunity to go out and serve and be able to do it with the student body and with students that really wanted to be there and wanted to pray for people was beautiful and refreshing.”

SENDLA will take place every fall and spring semester. Other organizations that would like to be involved are encouraged to contact the university.

SENDLA was sponsored by the SEND Network and the Louisiana Baptists.


Rapides Parish students honored at Apple Pinning ceremony

Students from Rapides Parish pursuing degrees through Northwestern State University’s School of Education were recognized during an Apple Pinning ceremony held March 24, marking their acceptance into teacher candidacy.

The ceremony honors students who have demonstrated a commitment to careers in education and will now advance into upper-level education coursework.

Students from Rapides Parish recognized include:

Payton Bareswill of Pineville, Early Childhood Education
Katie Farris of Pineville, Early Childhood Education
Lluvia Guillot of Woodworth, Elementary Education

Rapides Parish included in I-49 striping and marker upgrades

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development reported that a roadway safety improvement project affecting Rapides Parish received bids in March.

The project includes striping and pavement marker upgrades along Interstate 49 between Louisiana Highway 6 and an area just south of Boyce. The work is designed to improve roadway visibility and reduce potential hazards for drivers.

The apparent low bid for the project totaled $3,524,215.00. The work will also take place in neighboring Natchitoches Parish.

State officials continue to prioritize projects based on safety concerns, traffic patterns, and infrastructure needs.


DOTD announces an intersection improvement project along U.S. 165 in Pineville, Rapides Parish

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announces a project to provide intersection improvements along US 165 at its junction with LA 1254 and LA 116 in Pineville, Rapides Parish.

The $1.1 million project is scheduled to begin on the night of Monday, March 30, 2026, and will require nighttime alternating lane closures from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. These will take initially take place at the LA 116 intersection with US 165 (Proctor & Gamble).

The project includes the replacement of drainage structures to ensure proper drainage through the area, milling to remove old asphalt, base repairs, new asphalt paving and related work.

All work is anticipated to be completed by July 2026, with progress dependent on weather conditions and other factors that can impact construction timelines.

The contract was awarded to Progressive Construction Co., LLC.

Permit/Detour section:
There are no detour’s associated with this project.

Safety Reminder:
All construction activity is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. DOTD appreciates the motoring public’s patience and reminds drivers to please exercise caution when traveling through work zone areas and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment.

Additional Information:
Motorists can access the latest updates on real-time traffic and road conditions using the 511 Traveler Information System by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region on which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511). Travelers can also access this information by visiting the 511 Traveler Information Web site at www.511la.org. Additionally, you can follow the Traffic Management Center on Twitter: (@Alex Traffic). Motorists may also monitor the LA DOTD website @ www.dotd.la.gov and the DOTD Facebook page.


Fourth offense OWI draws six-figure bail

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

March 25

Torrance Flakes, 39, Thibodaux – Louisiana fugitive, peeping Tom, remaining on premises, $750 bail;

James Earl Gallow, 44, Ville Platte – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Tracey Denise Jones, 55, Cheneyville – two counts Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Xavien Michael Smith, 19, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Anthony Tezeno, 48, Ville Platte – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Keith John Vanderlick, 65, Effie – OWI second offense, careless operation, open container, $1,700 bail.

March 24

Mark Wayne Allen, 32, White Castle – DWI first offense, seat belt, $695 bail;

Jequarius Anderson, 21, Alexandria – two counts manufacture transfer or possession of machine guns, obstruction of justice, concealed negligent carry handgun, resisting an officer, reckless operation of a vehicle, $1,500 bail;

Anthony Demetrius Bobb Sr., 52, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Herbert Lee Dotson Jr., 50, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl with intent, criminal conspiracy, $150,000 bail;

Christopher Morrisell Farris, 33, Alexandria – two counts theft, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Tyquasha Teaunquay Griffith, 22, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, tail lights, three counts contempt of court, $11,600 bail;

Erick Dustin Love, 38, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, theft, burglary of inhabited dwelling, two counts contempt of court, $5,500 bail;

Lacey Denae Meaux, 42, Alexandria – possession of CDS, $1,500 bail;

Derrick Deon Millner, 42, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, three counts contempt of court, $18,500 bail;

Sarah Lane Paul, 41, Dry Prong – three counts simple burglary, resisting an officer, possession of burglary tools, $1,000 bail;

Burt Vecent Ryder, 48, Pineville – Louisiana fugitive, two counts contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Demetric Smith, 32, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, concealed negligent carry handgun, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, bicycle reflectors, $3,100 bail;

Richard Tademy, 49, Dallas – two counts possession of CDS, speeding, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $100 bail;

Antione Dewayne Thomas, 48, Alexandria – OWI second offense, reckless operation, $1,700 bail.

March 23

Gail Glendolia Bass, 48, Ball – two counts battery on officer, two counts resisting a police officer with force or violence, $6,500 bail;

Javier Arkuis Brown, 35, N/A – aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, second degree battery, aggravated second degree battery, obscenity, simple battery, two counts contempt of court, $21,000 bail;

Anthony G. Crochet, 41, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, obstruction of court orders, obscenity, careless operation of a vehicle, $101,600 bail;

Carlos Jerome Davis Jr., 21, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery pregnant, $10,000 bail;

Ladonna Delrie, 53, Pollock – first degree murder, flight from an officer, criminal damage to property, simple burglary, Louisiana fugitive, $5.3 million bail;

Brennan Michael Hicks Jr., 29, Pineville – domestic abuse battery with child present, contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Lorenzo Jewitt, 35, Alexandria – simple burglary, criminal trespass, false imprisonment, violation of protective orders, home invasion, three counts contempt of court, $78,500 bail;

Karen Denise Lafleur, 64, Glenmora – simple resisting a police officer with force or violence, battery of a police officer, criminal trespass, $2,000 bail;

Todd Leighton Lucas, 39, Pineville – OWI, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, reckless operation of a vehicle, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, $2,100 bail;

Gerlad Keith Luke, 30, Alexandria – criminal conspiracy, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, probation violation, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, remaining on premises, $150,250 bail;

Christopher Demoine Nash, 37, Ball – aggravated assault, theft, resisting an officer, criminal trespass, possession of drug paraphernalia, contempt of court, $57,000 bail;

Jayla A. Richards, 19, Alexandria – OWI first offense, speeding, $1,100 bail;

Maya Telfer, 44, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,200 bail;

Tyrese Marques Tucker, 25, Alexandria – attempted second degree murder, second degree battery, parole violations, simple battery, obstruction of justice, possession of marijuana, possession of firearm by convicted felon, resisting an officer, inciting to riot, simple battery, $91,500 bail;

Tawny Nicole Williams, 40, Ball – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, legend drug possession, criminal trespass, $2,500 bail.

March 22

John E. Clark, 59, Pineville – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Bryan Chayce Iles, 27, New Orleans – OWI first offense, multiple beam lighting distribution, expired MVI sticker, $1,200 bail;

Marquis Petrell Marshall, 55, Alexandria – theft (second/subsequent conviction), resisting an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, parole violations, $6,000 bail;

Jennifer Phillips, 36, Pineville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail.


BOM Bank is proud to sponsor Alexandria Senior High School 

BOM Bank is proud to sponsor the Alexandria Senior High School Girls Soccer program! Youth soccer plays a vital role in building confidence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership—skills that extend far beyond the field and help shape strong futures. We’re honored to support programs that invest in our student-athletes and the next generation of leaders in our communities. Pictured left to right: Lakyn Lonsberry and Coach Jason Maupin.

Remembering Sadie Laverne Vandevelde

Funeral services for Mrs. Sadie Laverne Vandevelde will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Walter Fausphoul officiating. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Alexandria Memorial Gardens, Woodworth, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mrs. Vandevelde, 78, of Pineville, entered eternal rest on Monday, March 23, 2026, in her residence surrounded by her loving family.

She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose life was defined by kindness, generosity, and devotion to her family. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially gardening, fishing, and arranging beautiful flowers. Her hands were rarely still, always tending to something that would bring happiness to others.

She was a deeply giving person, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a warm smile. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her family, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. Her presence will be greatly missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by one son, Charles Edward “Chuck” Patrick; and her parents, Jimmy Bradford and Willie Lee Cotten.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include her loving husband, Thomas F. Vandevelde of Pineville; one son, Clint Patrick (Tara) of Pineville; one daughter, Shellie Mitcham (Kyle) of Pineville; her siblings, Clifton, Connie, and Tammy; five grandsons, Austin Vidrine, Brannon Vidrine, Blaze Patrick, Maximus Gypin, and Justice Patrick; one granddaughter, Addisynn Hennigan; and three great grandchildren.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Clint Patrick, Kyle Mitcham, Blaze Patrick, Austin Vidrine, Justice Patrick, and Maximus Gypin.