Funeral services for Miss Melissa Ann Jenkins will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Dexter Goynes officiating. Interment will follow in Flatwoods Cemetery, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Melissa, 45, of Lena, entered eternal rest on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

She was a loving daughter and granddaughter. She enjoyed spending time on her computer and her phone. She adored cats, especially the love of her life, Memow. She was a kind, caring soul, and a friend for life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ted Ivan Jenkins; her mother, Deborah Sue Mooney; and one sister, Patricia Ann Mooney.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include her grandmother, Julia Ann Gauthier (Frank) of Lena; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and a host of friends.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. until time of service.

Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Corey Johnson, 35, of Alexandria, was indicted on Nov. 20 for willfully conveying a bomb threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e).

According to court documents, Johnson was arrested at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on Nov. 7 after making bomb threats to airport operations following a dispute over unpaid parking fees. JOHNSON called AVCOM twice to announce the presence of a bomb in the airport. Additionally, he threatened to harm the AVCOM operator. This action prompted an investigation by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation that identified JOHNSON as the caller from the earlier parking lot incident.

If convicted, JOHNSON faces a maximum penalty of up to ten years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Saint Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

By JIM BUTLER

An indication of problems encountered in the latest Boyce audit is it is for the year ending May 31, 2023.

Rozier, McKay & Willis reports being unable to obtain sufficient appropriate data to provide a basis for an audit opinion.

And the auditors as well as the town raise the possibility of it being no longer able to operate relatively soon.

The upside: since those September 5 conclusions, posted this week, the town has authorized start of the process to build a new town hall and is applying for funding to upgrade its water system.

Current town officials took office after Fall 2022 elections, about three-quarters of the way through the fiscal year just audited.

Responding to auditors’ litany of adverse remarks they note internal changes made since or under way as a result of the findings.

All concerned acknowledge the elephant in the room — about $1.13 million the state Municipal Police Employees Retirement System claims it is owed by the town.

MPERS is also pursuing additional claims associated with the February 2024 of the layoff of all police other than the elected chief.

(The retirement system is not new to pursuing cities, towns and villages for alleged contribution improprieties.)

The town contracted with the Sheriff’s Office to provide law enforcement following the layoffs.

According to the audit report, town officials have serious doubts about the town’s ability to operate should MPERS prevail in court, as do the auditors. 

But life goes on – the town will apply this month for a Community Development Block Grant of $2 million for water system improvements. Public comment is being received through December 13.

(The audit report shows the water system with $167,000 revenue and $288,000 expenses in themJune 1, 2022-May 31, 2023 fiscal year.)

Pan American Engineers recently received the go-ahead to seek a 75/25 grant for a new town hall.

The audit indicates total town revenue was $3.5 million in the 12 months reviewed and expenses were $3.8 million.

Pineville High School honored a local legend. The basketball court was officially dedicated to Coach Bobby Rucker, whose 22 years of leadership and mentorship from 1966 to 1988 shaped countless student-athletes.

The amazing turnout of alumni, community members, and supporters was a testament to Coach Rucker’s impact. For generations of players, he was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence who believed in their potential both on and off the court.

Coach Rucker’s dedication to high school basketball in Central Louisiana continues to inspire, and this dedication ensures that his legacy will be remembered!

Pineville High School students took part in Rapides Parish EMS Day on Tuesday, joining a hands-on learning event designed to connect education with emergency response agencies.

The practical, cross-agency program offered students the opportunity to engage directly with Emergency Response Professionals through a series of real-world activities. Students practiced trauma scenarios with Rapides Hospital, competed in CPR races with St. Francis Cabrini Hospital, and participated in turnout gear drills led by the Alpine Fire Department. They also spent time exploring a Blackhawk helicopter and interacting with representatives from Pafford and Acadian Ambulance.

School officials said the event helped build critical skills, teamwork, and awareness of career pathways in emergency services. Pineville High thanked its community partners for providing students with meaningful and impactful learning experiences.

The Beaver Lake Renewable Energy project in Pineville is emerging as one of the most significant industrial investments in Central Louisiana in decades.

Positioned on the former International Paper mill site on Williams Lake Road, the project is set to transform an idle industrial footprint into a next-generation wood-to-methanol production facility, backed by $2.5 billion in private capital and extensive local support.

Announced publicly in 2023, the Beaver Lake project has steadily advanced through engineering, permitting, community engagement, and supply-chain planning. According to Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the facility is projected to generate more than 650 high-wage direct and indirect jobs paying approximately 60 percent above the regional average, along with more than 1,100 construction jobs at peak activity. The plant is expected to begin construction next year.

Once online, the facility will convert roughly 2.5 million tons of sustainable wood fiber annually into more than 530,000 tons of low-carbon methanol. That product will travel by barge down the Red River to Gulf Coast ports, where it will enter markets with strong demand for cleaner fuels. To meet customer requirements, the project will capture and transport approximately half of its CO₂ emissions to a licensed sequestration site more than 50 miles away.

Local business leaders and forestry industry executives have expressed strong support for what the project means for the region’s timber economy.

“This project represents a major long-term commitment to Louisiana’s forestry sector,” said Scott Poole, President and COO of Roy O. Martin. “A facility of this scale strengthens markets for landowners, loggers, and mills alike. It brings stability to our supply chain and creates new opportunities for working families across Central Louisiana.”

The Louisiana Forestry Association echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the economic ripple effects the project is expected to generate.

“Forestry is an important part of Central Louisiana. Beaver Lake is exactly the kind of investment that helps rural economies thrive,” said Buck Vandersteen, Executive Director of the Louisiana Forestry Association. “From landowners, loggers and truckers to equipment dealers and service providers, this project benefits every link in the forestry value chain. It keeps our forests working, our people employed, and our communities growing.”

Over the past six months, Beaver Lake has been active in hosting small-group briefings, community meetings, and discussions with civic organizations. Local businesses have also begun early engagement with the company, preparing for supplier and vendor opportunities as construction nears.

Beaver Lake leaders say that transparency and community access will remain core principles throughout construction and long-term operations.

“We are committed to being good neighbors and open partners,” said Dan LeFevers, Vice President of External Affairs at Beaver Lake Renewable Energy. “Our team has spent months in conversations with residents, businesses, and civic groups, and we’ll continue offering those meetings to anyone who wants to learn more about the project or ask questions directly.”

A vendor fair is planned for 2026, giving Central Louisiana businesses the opportunity to participate in both the construction and operational phases of the facility. Beaver Lake has repeatedly expressed its intent to prioritize local companies whenever possible.

The Beaver Lake project positions Central Louisiana for sustained growth beyond the direct jobs created at the facility, the project is expected to spur new business investment, strengthen the forestry supply chain, and generate long-term economic activity across Rapides Parish and surrounding areas.

With construction approaching and local support continuing to grow, Beaver Lake Renewable Energy is on track to become a major driver of economic opportunity, industrial innovation, and community partnership in Central Louisiana.

The Pineville Police Department announced that beginning Jan. 1, 2026, officers will be authorized to issue citations for violations of Revised Statute 32:59, the state law governing distracted driving and the use of wireless devices while operating a vehicle.

The department encouraged residents to review the full statute to understand the restrictions and requirements related to mobile device use behind the wheel. Officials emphasized the importance of putting phones down, paying attention to the road, and practicing safe driving habits to reduce preventable accidents.

The updated enforcement marks a continued effort by Pineville Police to promote roadway safety and responsible driving.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Dec. 4

Walter Austin Crooks, 29, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, two counts contempt of court, $55,500 bail;

Takeitha Amira James, 28, Cottonport – three counts contempt of court, $30,000 bail;

Teea Breanne Swasey, 39, Alexandria – contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Brandon Thomas, 21, Pineville – OWI first offense, driving under suspension, no MVI sticker, possession of drug paraphernalia, $1,700 bail;

Derrick Wayne Thompson, 49, Alexandria – seven counts contempt of court, $101,500 bail.

Dec. 3

Landon Gage Ackel, 34, Alexandria – second degree aggravated battery, careless operation of a vehicle, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, parole violations, use of CDS in presence of minor, unsafe vehicle, obstruction of driver’s view, safety belt violation, hit and run, $10,000 bail;

Rickey Beauregard, 19, Alexandria – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, no bail data;

Quashawn Terell Brooks, 28, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $20,000 bail;

John Fred Difulco, 61, Pineville – OWI third offense, no signals, open container, $75,200 bail;

Calvin Wayne Giddings, 56, Deville – first degree rape, $1 million bail;

Antonio Dewayne Lee, 25, Alexandria – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $5,000 bail;

Demetrius Martez Jackson, 37, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, theft, obstruction of justice, contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Rashad O’Neal Jenkins, 32, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, Louisiana fugitive, $47,500 bail;

Kelvon Gerald Kyle, 25, Cottonport – flight from an officer, disarming a peace officer, criminal damage to property, two counts contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Michael Wayne Smith Jr., 26, Pineville – illegal use of weapons, dangerous instrumentalities, $100,000 bail;

Patrick Bruce Thompson Sr., 66, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS with intent, possession of drug paraphernalia, $500 bail;

Barbara Ann Wade, 75, Deville – attempted murder of law officer, accessory after the fact, $1 million bail;

Fredrick Eugene Warren, 29, Lecompte – resisting an officer, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, reckless operation of a vehicle, turn signals required, flight from an officer, no driver’s license, resisting an officer, Louisiana fugitive, two counts contempt of court, $127,100 bail;

Dec. 2

Darrell Stewart Age, 66, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

Brady Lee Bordelon, 46, Pineville – four counts possession of CDS, two counts contempt of court, three counts theft of a firearm, theft, $57,000 bail;

Jamison D. Boyd, 42, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, violation of protective orders, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of marijuana, $8,000 bail;

Martha Monae Davis, 35, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Raydrian Jaquan Fisher, 19, Alexandria – attempted second degree murder, firearm-free zone, second degree battery, contempt of court, $177,000 bail;

Stephen DeMarco Fitzgerald, 51, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

William Clayton Folse, 30, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, theft, $20,500 bail;

Michael Carroll Guillory, 43, Pineville – simple burglary, $10,000 bail;

Demoreo Nifine Hall, 38, Alexandria – 14 counts of theft, Louisiana fugitive, two counts disturbing the peace, two counts criminal damage to property, two counts criminal conspiracy, battery of a dating partner, illegal possession of stolen things, three counts contempt of court, two counts contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, $73,000 bail;

Terrance Tyrell Hamilton, 36, Pineville – aggravated burglary, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $150,000 bail;

Terrance Erickson, 40, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

Donald Ray Jones, 53, Colfax – nine counts contempt of court, parole violations, $81,500 bail;

Horace Roberson, 60, Shreveport – OWI second offense, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, $2,500 bail;

Charles Wayne Tharp, 46, Pineville – operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, reckless operation of a vehicle, flight from an officer, speeding, $1,600 bail;

Joseph Thomas, 47, Lafayette – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Christi Michelle Wells-Marler, 44, New Iberia – simple burglary, $1,000 bail;

Kameron Zuriel Williams, 25, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts possession of weapon by convicted felon, parole violations, $36,000 bail.

Dec. 1

Ashley Nicole Cannon, 43, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, $1,000 bail;

Daequan Jemarcuse Holmes, 30, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, two counts possession of fentanyl, two counts possession of synthetic cannabinoid, two counts possession of CDS, contempt of court, probation violation, $63,500 bail;

Jackie Ray Johnson Jr., 25, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, tail lights, Louisiana fugitive, $1,600 bail;

Nicholas Lofton, 24, Alexandria – criminal trespass, disturbing the peace, resisting an officer, $1,500 bail;

Timarian Dewayne Logan, 23, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal possession of stolen firearms, eight counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, paraphernalia, resisting an officer, $151,000 bail;

Lacey Danae Meaux, 42, Pineville – possession of fentanyl, paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, switched license plate, no insurance, $6,100 bail;

Eric Matthew Meginley II, 26, Alexandria – domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment, cruelty to juveniles, $20,000 bail;

Jamar Phillips, 22, Montgomery – second degree battery, $25,000 bail;

Calesha Lashun Smith, 25, Alexandria – resisting an officer, obstruction of justice, four counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Nathaniel Kevin Smith, 34, Deville – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $61,000 bail;

Jeremie Lee Suire, 41, Pineville – speeding, driving under suspension, failure to appear, $700 bail;

Kaely Nachelle Toney, 26, Alexandria – burglary of inhabited dwelling, $2,000 bail.

Nov. 30

Riggous Rashard Allcutt, 41, Alexandria – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Patricia Dianne Barrow, 54, Pineville – theft, legend drug possession, $1,000 bail;

Ethan Issac Croft, 23, Delhi – OWI first offense, improper backing, $1,100 bail;

Chad Leon Goleman, 38, Hineston – Louisiana fugitive, three counts contempt of court, $103,000 bail;

Brenden Hebert, 20, Pineville – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

James Jeromy Keene, 56, Alexandria – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

Jamar Mullins, 18, Pineville – two counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, criminal conspiracy, obstruction of justice, aggravated criminal damage, two counts aggravated assault with a firearm, $117,000 bail;

Colby Daniel Vance II, 34, Ball – simple burglary, OWI first offense, open container, switched license plate, driving under suspension/revocation, eight counts contempt of court, $62,800 bail.

Private Graveside Services were held for Mr. Matthew Paul Miller on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Butterfield Cemetery, Dry Prong, with Reverends Will Butterfield and Steve Hutchinson officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Miller, 35, of Sulphur, entered eternal rest on Friday, November 28, 2025, at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, Sulphur, LA.

He was a loving son and the light of his family’s life. He enjoyed music and the guitar, and he was always such a joy to meet. He had an amazing smile that brightened any room and a giggle that touched your heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, David and Betty Miller.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving mother, Angela Hutchinson (Steve) of Many; one brother, Austin Ramey (Stephanie) of Dupo, Illinois; his grandmother, Liz Miller of Alexandria; and the John and Tina Butterfield Family.

Joseph Calvert LaCaze, Jr., affectionately known as Jay, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, and unshakeable kindness. Born with a natural curiosity and a gift for working with his hands, he built a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and a deep love for the people and world around him.

Visitation for Jay will be held at Gallagher Funeral Home in Ball, Louisiana on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 am. A memorial service will take place at 10:00 am at the funeral home with Dr. Steve Speer officiating.

A true outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in the quiet crackle of a campfire, the thrill of water skiing across a glassy lake, and the simple peace of being surrounded by nature. These passions shaped some of his happiest memories and were often shared with family and friends.

His talents extended far beyond the wilderness. A licensed aircraft mechanic, he spent his career mastering the complexities of helicopters and aviation technology. His expertise carried him around the world, where he worked on helicopters in distant cities, remote work sites, and places most people only dream of seeing. He later founded Helicopter Work Aids, a company born from his ingenuity and commitment to helping others in his profession. His contributions to the field and his willingness to teach, guide, and support others made him widely respected within the aviation community.

His competitive spirit shone just as brightly-he was proud to be a Louisiana State Champion in Cowboy Fast Draw, a title earned through skill, focus, and a love of sport’s camaraderie.

At home, he was known as the person who could fix anything. Generous with his time and talents, he became a trusted neighbor and friend, always ready with a tool in hand and a smile on his face. His mechanical ability was remarkable, but it was his kindness and eagerness to help that made him beloved in the community. Of all his accomplishments, none meant more to him than his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a supportive uncle, and a loyal friend. His love was steady, his advice thoughtful, and his presence a source of comfort and strength. He leaves behind countless memories of laughter, mentorship, and unwavering affection.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 42 years, Neuly LaCaze; sons, Joseph LaCaze, III (Kathryn) and Allan LaCaze (Tainna); grandchildren, Vivian LaCaze, Jospeh “J.J.” LaCaze, IV, Louise LaCaze, and Liz LaCaze; brothers, Paul LaCaze (Janet) and Greg LaCaze (Lorrie); nieces and nephews, Julia LaCaze, John LaCaze, James LaCaze, Jamie Phillips (Dakota)and Caol Gomes (Douglas); great nieces, Claire Phillips and Isabella Gomes; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish the lessons he taught, the adventures he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph “J.C.” LaCaze, Sr. and Frances LaCaze.

His life was one of purpose, craftsmanship, and heart. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph “Jay”, please visit our floral store.

Phonetic: /kənˈfɪskətəri/
Part of Speech: adjective

Definition

Government action: A confiscatory power is the state’s ability to seize property, such as assets obtained through a crime or property used to further a criminal enterprise.

The Alexandria Police Department requested the public’s assistance Thursday after a shooting on Dec. 4 left a juvenile with non-life-threatening injuries.

The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. in the 2000 block of Hill Street. Police said the shots were fired from the area of Vance Avenue and Beech Street before striking the juvenile.

The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives are working to identify the suspect or suspects involved.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at 318-441-6416 or APD Dispatch at 318-441-6559. Tips can also be emailed to APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.

Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may contact Crime Stoppers of CenLa at 318-443-7867 or submit information through the P3 Tipster App for a possible cash reward.

By JIM BUTLER

A meeting of the Bankruptcy Court-approved official committee of the Diocese of Alexandria’s creditors is scheduled for December 9.

The Diocese filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization protection on October 31 in the wake of mounting claims by parties alleging sexual improprieties by priests, most decades ago.

According to available records, the court has not yet set a bar date in the matter. That is the deadline for any claiming to be a party in the matter.

The creditors’ committee, the official panel of unsecured creditors, was created November 21,  according to the record, following the case’s initial hearing of November 5.

According to its petition the Diocese had about $7.8 million in unsecured obligations on the filing date. $7.1 million of that was related to priest retirement benefits, health care and the like.

The December 9 meeting (known in bankruptcy lingo as a Section 341) is a dial-in session at which the trustee asks the under-oath debtor questions about financial condition.

It also provides opportunity for creditors to ask about their debts.

The meeting is an early step in what can be a protracted process.

If you or a family member uses FreeStyle Libre 3 or Libre 3 Plus sensors, please check your sensor immediately at Abbott Diabetes Care’s dedicated site: www.freestylecheck.com.

Why: Abbott has identified a serious problem affecting some FreeStyle Libre 3 / 3 Plus sensors — they may show falsely low glucose readings. 

• As of November 2025, there have been 736 serious adverse events worldwide linked to this issue, and seven deaths possibly associated with the faulty sensors. 

• Using an affected sensor could lead to incorrect insulin dosing (either too much or too little), risking serious medical emergencies. 

What to do:

1. Visit www.freestylecheck.com and use the “Confirm Sensor Serial Number” tool to see if your sensor is impacted. 

2. If your sensor is listed as affected — stop using it immediately. Dispose of it safely. 

3. Request a free replacement from Abbott. 

4. Until you receive a replacement, monitor glucose using a standard blood-glucose meter or the built-in meter in your Libre reader (if available).

Important Note: Some pharmacies and suppliers may not yet be aware of this correction, so even if you recently obtained sensors — whether new or unopened — you should independently check the serial number.

Please share this information — let friends, family, and anyone you know using FreeStyle Libre 3 / Libre 3 Plus sensors know about this urgent safety issue so they can check their devices without delay.

If you have questions or concerns, you can contact Abbott Diabetes Care at 1-833-815-4273 (U.S.), or visit their customer support page.

The City of Alexandria announced that the public comment period for the Sugar House Road Extension Project will close on Saturday, Dec. 6. Residents can submit comments online until midnight on Saturday using the designated link provided by the city.

Comments may also be mailed to Sugar House Road Extension Project, C/O Franklin Associates – Angi Noote, 250 S. Foster Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70806. Mailed submissions must be postmarked by Dec. 6 to be considered.

Mountain Man Tree Service and Forest Consulting can be reached:
Cell/Text: (318) 277-7830

eMail: mountainmantsfc@gmail.com
Website: Mountainmantsfc.com

Mountain Man Tree Service and Forest Consulting isn’t your typical tree removal outfit. Founded by Kohl, a disabled Army veteran with deep Louisiana roots, the company represents something increasingly rare in today’s marketplace: a business built on genuine expertise, community commitment, and the kind of hands-on knowledge that can’t be learned from a manual.

When Disaster Strikes: Rapid Response That Clears the Way
In Central Louisiana, severe weather doesn’t just damage property—it can trap you. When high winds and violent storms send trees crashing down, they rarely fall in convenient locations. Mountain Man Tree Service specializes in emergency tree removal that restores access and safety to your property, no matter where that fallen timber lands.

A tree blocking your driveway means you can’t get to work, can’t reach medical appointments, and can’t evacuate if conditions worsen. A massive oak collapsed against your house threatens structural damage with every passing hour. Fallen limbs tangled in your fence create liability issues and security concerns. A shed crushed under storm debris means lost tools, equipment, and irreplaceable items. Even trees scattered across your lawn present tripping hazards and prevent normal use of your outdoor space.

Mountain Man Tree Service understands that emergency tree removal isn’t just about cutting wood—it’s about restoring normalcy to disrupted lives. Their 24/7 availability means that when you wake up to find a tornado has redecorated your property with fallen trees, help is just a phone call away.

But their expertise extends well beyond crisis response. The same professionals who can safely extract a tree from your roof also handle routine stump grinding, comprehensive lot clearing, and mulching services. Using industry-standard equipment, they don’t just remove stumps—they eliminate all traces, covering the area with wood chips to leave properties looking pristine. It’s this combination of emergency readiness and meticulous attention to detail that has earned them their reputation as Cenla’s top-rated tree service.

From Forest to Service
Kohl’s journey to becoming “Cenla’s top rated tree service” began long before he hung out his shingle. Growing up in Boyce, Louisiana, he developed an intimate relationship with the land while hunting alongside three generations of his family. That childhood passion evolved into the disciplined achievement of Eagle Scout, then blossomed into formal education—a forestry degree with a concentration in wildlife management from Louisiana Tech University.

But the real preparation came from five years as a supervising forester for the state of Louisiana, where he gained the kind of practical experience that separates true professionals from weekend warriors with a chainsaw. This background means that when Mountain Man Tree Service shows up at your property, you’re getting someone who understands tree biology, forest ecology, and land management at a level most competitors simply can’t match.

Family Business with Purpose
What truly sets Mountain Man Tree Service apart is the “why” behind the work. As a family-owned operation with five children at its heart, the company approaches every job with a sense of responsibility that extends beyond the transaction. Kohl’s military service instilled values of dedication and reliability that now translate into 24/7 emergency availability and consistently high-quality work.
The company serves Dry Prong, Ball, Deville, Pineville, Alexandria, and surrounding communities with the kind of integrity that comes from viewing customers as neighbors, not just clients.

When Nature Strikes
In Central Louisiana, it’s not a question of whether severe weather will strike, but when. When that next cold front brings down trees onto driveways, houses, fences, sheds, or lawns, having a trusted professional on speed dial isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. Mountain Man Tree Service’s licensed and insured operation (AR #2569) provides peace of mind that the job will be done safely and correctly.
Their commitment to offering free estimates removes another barrier, making professional tree care accessible to more homeowners.

The Bigger Picture
In an era of corporate consolidation and fly-by-night operators, Mountain Man Tree Service and Forest Consulting represent something worth celebrating: local expertise serving local needs. Kohl’s journey from Louisiana forests to forestry degree to state service to entrepreneurship embodies the American dream, military veteran edition—using skills and training to serve community with purpose.

For Central Louisiana residents, that means access to tree care that’s backed by genuine forestry knowledge, delivered with military-grade reliability, and executed with the care of someone who sees your property as if it were his own.

Because when you’ve spent a lifetime learning to respect and understand trees, you don’t just remove them—you steward the relationship between people and the land they call home.