Over the past decade, digital payment platforms have emerged as serious alternatives to traditional banking, transforming how people manage money. Leading the movement are Venmo and Cash App, two mobile-first services that have redefined peer-to-peer transactions and blurred the line between technology companies and banks.

Digital Payment Revolution

As smartphones became widespread and consumers sought faster, more intuitive financial tools, fintech firms seized the opportunity. Venmo, launched in 2009 and acquired by PayPal in 2013, introduced a social element to money transfers by blending payments with social media interaction. Cash App, developed by Square and launched in 2013, focused on simplicity and has since evolved into a broad financial platform.

Understanding the Platforms

Venmo distinguishes itself by turning transactions into social experiences. Users can view and comment on payment activity in a feed similar to Facebook’s, complete with emojis and captions. Core features include peer-to-peer payments, debit and credit cards, business profiles, and bill-splitting tools.

Cash App has taken a different approach, positioning itself as a comprehensive financial ecosystem. In addition to standard transfers, the app offers customizable debit cards with “boost” rewards, direct deposit with early access to paychecks, stock investing with fractional shares, Bitcoin trading, and business payment options.

Banking Without the Bank

Both platforms have introduced features that resemble traditional banking, often earning them the label “neo-banks.” Still, users generally must link a bank account or debit card to fund their balances or withdraw large amounts. This reliance shows that the apps complement rather than replace conventional banks.

Even so, their functionality has expanded dramatically. Users can receive direct deposits, store money, make purchases, and invest—all within a mobile interface. Physical cards extend that digital reach to in-store transactions, with Venmo offering cash back and Cash App providing instant retail discounts.

Advantages Over Traditional Banking

Ease of use remains the primary advantage. While traditional banks often require in-person visits or complex online navigation, Venmo and Cash App allow users to start transferring funds within minutes. The platforms have also broadened access to financial tools for people who might not qualify for traditional accounts due to credit or balance requirements.

In many cases, services that incur fees at banks—such as basic transfers or low-balance maintenance—are free or cheaper through these apps. Rapid innovation has kept them ahead of consumer expectations and forced legacy institutions to adapt.

Limitations and Risks

Regulatory protection is the biggest limitation. Both Venmo and Cash App provide FDIC insurance through partner banks, but their safeguards are not as comprehensive as those at regulated financial institutions. Customer support can be limited, and resolving complex disputes may be difficult.

Neither service offers the full range of banking products such as mortgages, business loans, or wealth management. Transaction limits and occasional fees apply, and mobile-only support can be frustrating when users need direct assistance.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

The rise of these platforms has forced traditional banks to improve their digital tools and rethink customer expectations. Instant transfers and user-friendly design are now baseline requirements across the industry.

Venmo and Cash App have also brought millions of previously underbanked individuals into the financial system. As they expand further, analysts expect them to offer more lending and international capabilities. Increased regulatory oversight is likely to follow, balancing consumer protection with continued innovation.

Rather than replacing traditional banks, these fintechs are increasingly partnering with them, combining regulatory expertise with modern technology.

The Bottom Line

Venmo and Cash App represent a fundamental shift in how consumers interact with financial services. They have addressed long-standing frustrations with accessibility, speed, and cost, but they also come with trade-offs in protection and scope.

For most consumers, the best approach is a hybrid one—using traditional banks for security and fintech apps for convenience. As digital platforms continue to evolve, they are pushing the entire financial industry toward a more customer-focused and technologically advanced future.

RoyOMartin’s ninth annual Women in Manufacturing event at LSU of Alexandria put local students front and center. Participants from Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School and Peabody Magnet High School’s “Girls Can Too” mentorship program attended the event, where they heard directly from RoyOMartin leaders and women in manufacturing who shared their career journeys and insights into opportunities within the industry.

The annual event celebrates women who are leading the way in manufacturing while inspiring the next generation to explore diverse and rewarding careers in the field.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Oct. 22

Zachary Tyler Babin, 29, Walldoboro, Maine – three counts domestic abuse battery, $75,000 bail;

Breanna Nicole Baham, 28, Pineville – contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Terry James Gilbert, 51, Boyce – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, Louisiana fugitive, switch MVI, $3,100 bail;

Michael Kane Pitts, 47, Leesville – Louisiana fugitive, contempt of court, $25,000 bail;

Justin Sean Rollins, 25, Pineville – contempt of court, $50,000 bail.

Oct. 21

Marcus D. Booker Jr., 38, Pineville – theft, criminal trespass, possession of CDS, parole violations, $3,250 bail;

Devetrick Bush, 20, Pineville – armed robbery, $250,000 bail;

Carnell Antonio Carter, 38, Alexandria – possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, $500 bail;

Edward D. Evans, 56, Calvin – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Allen Jerry Fields, 35, Pineville – sex offender failure to renew registration, $10,000 bail;

Brandon John Glorioso, 30, Elmer – four counts possession of fentanyl, two counts possession of CDS, two counts contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, $71,500 bail;

Lasane Harris, 21, Boyce – criminal conspiracy, hit and run, reckless operation, unsafe vehicle, no insurance, $10,556 bail;

Jorion Dwann Henderson, 28, Alexandria – resisting arrest, eight counts contempt of court, $68,500 bail;

Michael J. Johnson Jr., 39, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, resisting an officer, theft, criminal trespass, simple burglary, possession of marijuana, eight counts contempt of court, $307,250 bail;

Ryan Odell Kirk, 51, Pineville – driving under suspension, seven counts contempt of court, headlights, $156,200 bail;

Brady Lachney, 39, Pineville – criminal conspiracy, prohibited activities and sanctions, theft, $5,500 bail;

Misty Higgs Laprairie, 48, Pineville – two counts Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Melissa A. McEvers, 44, Pineville – resisting an officer, three counts contempt of court, $5,500 bail;

Shelton Ray Morris Jr, 48, Lecompte – criminal damage to property, aggravated robbery, three counts simple burglary, $13,500 bail;

Joseph Clay Nugent, 54, Pineville – hit and run driving, criminal damage to property, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, driving under suspension, failure to report an accident, improper lane usage, Louisiana fugitive, $6,300 bail;

Jaquarius Deonte Sewell, 29, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, improper lane usage, careless operation of a vehicle, $5,200 bail;

Terris Strong Jr., 20, Alexandria – second degree murder, possession of paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal use of weapons, $1.15 million bail;

Blaise H. Vidrine, 37, Elton – no insurance, driving under suspension, speeding, possession or sell of firearms with obliterated serial number, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts contempt of court, $25,300 bail.

Oct. 20

Christopher Bell, 34, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, Louisiana fugitive, failure to appear, $2,000 bail;

Devarus Martelle Bennett, 21, Alexandria – home invasion, $50,000 bail;

Ashley Nicole Bowman, 31, Pineville – home invasion, $50,000 bail;

Jason Leon Crager, 39, Calcasieu – two counts Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Lawanda Ann Dubois, 55, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, $1,200 bail;

Qwadadrian Fields, 20, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, flight from an officer, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, no driver’s license, canceled plate violation, failure to secure registration, resisting an officer, safety belt violation, $31,800 bail;

Elijah Frank, 19, Hineston – theft, two counts contempt of court, $6,000 bail;

Cazya Creone White, 19, Pineville – home invasion, $50,000 bail;

Z’mya Breon White, 20, Pineville – home invasion, $100,000 bail;

Travis Terrell Wilson, 39, Alexandria – theft of package delivered to inhabited dwelling, obstruction of justice, $26,000 bail.

Oct. 19

Sundrea Denae Campbell, 28, Pineville – possession of CDS, simple burglary, paraphernalia, probation violation, $25,500 bail;

Casmyn Jer’Wayne Claiborne, 26, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, domestic abuse battery, $4,000 bail;

Eric Fruge, 43, Alexandria – theft, contempt of court, $50,500 bail;

Ashley Nichole Grantham, 43, Pineville – illegal possession of stolen things, two counts contempt of court, $60,000 bail;

Willie Clyde Reed, 27, Pineville – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, running a stop sign, parole violations, $3,100 bail;

Keith A. Reynolds, 38, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, violation/protective order, $1,750 bail;

Curtis Rominger, 33, Deville – theft, contempt of court, $5,500 bail.

Services for Gladys Claiborne will be at 12:00pm on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Edgefield Cemetery, Cheneyville, LA. Rev. Cedric Brown will be officiating.

Ms. Claiborne, 76, of Alexandria, LA, passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and a caregiver loved by many.
She is preceded in death by her parents: Charles and Elnora Jones, and great granddaughter: Kinsley Winn.

Gladys leaves to cherish her memories – daughter: Angelia Clark, brothers: Melvin Jones and Ralph Jones, sister: Geraldine Warner, three grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, great niece and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation will begin at 8:00a.m. at Robinson Family Mortuary, 1815 Military Hwy, Pineville, LA.

Kurt Alan Lee was born on January 14, 1964, to the union of Josie Mae Andrews-Lee and Robert Lee, Sr. He was the 6th child of 8 children. He was born in Pineville, LA and resided in Marksville, LA. Kurt accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church. He was educated in the Avoyelles Parish School System. He was employed at Tidewater and Aries Maries for 28 years. Kurt lived a spontaneous life. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, and hanging out with friends and family. He later became part of the organization of the Knights of Peter Claver Council #169.

Kurt departed this life on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at his home. After a long illness, the angels beckoned him to come and rest in the bosom of Jesus. He was preceded in death by his parents, Josie Mae Andrews-Lee and Robert Lee, Sr.; two brothers, Bruce Lee and Steve Lee, one sister, Vivian Walters; and a nephew, Myron Mingo.

He leaves to cherish his memory, five brothers, Robert Lee, Jr. (Diane), Scott Lee (Regina), Randy Lee (Connie), and David Lee, and Michael Lee, one sister, Sandra Miranda. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Baton Rouge – Governor Jeff Landry is warning all SNAP welfare cardholders that they will receive no new benefits on their cards starting Nov. 1 due to the federal government shutdown in Washington, DC. Any remaining benefits from previous months can still be used. Updated information will be available to all Louisiana residents through a new site https://dcshutdown.la.gov.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Louisiana receive SNAP welfare benefits. An update from the USDA this summer stated more than 16% of the population in Louisiana receives SNAP benefits.

“The U.S. Senate is failing to open the federal government in Washington, DC. SNAP benefits are paid for by the federal government in Washington, and we simply administer the program here in Louisiana. Without the funds we cannot provide the benefits. The U.S. House under Speaker Mike Johnson has already acted to re-open the government. Our U.S. Senators representing Louisiana have voted over and over again to re-open the government. They are doing their part. Now it is time for those U.S. Senators, under Democrat Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, to vote yes and re-open the federal government. Louisianans concerned about the lack of funds for this program, or any impacted federal service, should call on Chuck Schumer to re-open the federal government now,” said Governor Jeff Landry.

The Louisiana Department of Health which oversees the SNAP program in Louisiana will begin notifying recipients this week, based on available information, that November benefits will not be added to their cards until the federal government reopens. In addition, LDH is providing notices (Notice 1, Notice 2) which retailers can post on doorways and in their stores notifying recipients new funds will be unavailable.

“All Louisiana SNAP recipients should be aware that there will be no new benefits added to their cards starting November 1st unless the federal government in Washington, DC reopens,” said Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health Bruce D. Greenstein. “We will do all we can to ensure SNAP recipients are aware of this and that retailers are prepared as well. Updated information will be provided on the state’s new dcshutdown.la.gov website as soon as it is available.”

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits that help eligible low-income households buy the food they need for good health. It is a program funded by the federal government in Washington, DC under the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Alexandria Police Department responded to a call Tuesday evening, Oct. 21, after an individual reportedly jumped from the Purple Heart Bridge into the Red River. The incident occurred around 6:58 p.m. The individual managed to swim to shore and was later transported to a local hospital, where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Authorities thanked the Alexandria Fire Department for its assistance at the scene. The case remains under investigation.

Session Begins Thursday, Runs Through November 13

Gov. Jeff Landry has called a special session of the Louisiana Legislature to convene Thursday, October 23 and continue through November 13. The stated purpose is to consider revisions to the state’s election code, upcoming election dates and deadlines, and to ensure the 2026 election cycle proceeds smoothly—including authorization of any required funding.

A member of the State House of Representatives explained that lawmakers are awaiting a decision by the United States Supreme Court regarding Louisiana’s congressional redistricting map. That ruling, expected sometime in 2025, could require the state to redraw its districts.

The legislator said the upcoming special session provides an opportunity to align the election schedule and related technical provisions in advance of any possible court action. “We’re preparing the 2026 election framework under existing law,” the representative noted, “so that the state’s deadlines and procedures remain intact regardless of when the Court ultimately rules.”

Key Reasons for the Special Session

• Congressional map challenge: Louisiana’s current map contains two majority-Black districts, created under a prior federal court order. That plan remains under appeal for alleged racial gerrymandering.

• Potential need for redistricting: If the Supreme Court invalidates the map, the Legislature could be required to redraw districts, which might disrupt the 2026 election calendar.

• Preventing administrative chaos: Adjusting the election code, filing deadlines, and budget allocations now may help the state avoid confusion such as invalid ballots, missed qualification periods, or candidate uncertainty.

• Addressing unfinished business: Louisiana governors often use special sessions to handle measures that failed in the regular session or require timely attention before the next one convenes.

Implications

• If the Supreme Court overturns the current map, Louisiana will already have established updated timelines and procedures to reduce disruption.

• Redistricting debates could spark partisan conflict given the political stakes tied to district boundaries.

• Adjustments to deadlines could affect candidate qualifying, voter registration windows, and ballot preparation.

• Because special sessions are limited to items listed in the governor’s call, lawmakers will be restricted to election-related legislation rather than broader policy matters.

Journal Services Staff Writer

Nothing says Louisiana like tourism in New Orleans, which spreads the state’s brand across the world.

And an Interstate-10 interchange to a new terminal of Louis Armstrong International Airport is about as big as it gets when it comes road and highway construction in the state.

This project showcases the trust that Gilchrist Construction Company of Alexandria has built across the state since its founding in 1981.

Randy Gilchrist started the company and remains the president today, serving in his fifth different decade.
Gilchrist Construction began in commercial site work and concrete construction like foundations, sidewalks and parking lots before moving into subdivision streets and drainage by the mid-1980s.
The company entered the Louisiana highway market by the end of that decade and is a force in the heavy highway work sector.

The I-10 interchange to Loyola Drive is a design-build project that includes two flyover ramps and widening of the Duncan Canal Bridge. The interchange is Gilchrist’s fourth design-build project, demonstrating the expertise to finish a project from conception to construction.

This project leverages Gilchrist Construction’s strengths in earthwork, drainage structures, concrete and asphalt paving.

The design-build function of highway and bridge construction allows the state to contract a single-entity without bidding to reduce construction time and often cost.

Just the bridge team alone features 80 employees with more than 380 years of combined experience.
The company has completed projects in all four corners of the state with nine different projects ongoing. This includes bridge projects in the Louisiana towns of Iowa, Starks, and the Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish.

Gilchrist has contributed to the Geaux South project, a multi-billion, multi-year construction initiative to convert 160 miles of the U.S. 90 corridor to an interstate, making travel from Lafayette down to Houma-Thibodaux and on to New Orleans easier for residents and industry.

Now that I-49 is complete to the northern Louisiana border, improvement of U.S. 90 means the Midwest will have better highway access to major ports in the southeast Louisiana, two of which rank among the top seven U.S. ports in terms of tonnage.

The Central Louisiana location allows Gilchrist to move its people – and heavy machinery – easily around the state to meet the needs of Louisianans.

The new senior pastor of First United Methodist Church Alexandria, Rev. Kennon Pickett, recently announced the 27th Annual Pumpkin Patch and Fun Fall Festival from October 23 through 27. This beloved tradition, rooted at First United Methodist Church Alexandria since 1998, is a wonderful way to celebrate fall with family and friends while supporting a meaningful cause.

The Pumpkin Patch will be open in the lot across from the church at 2727 Jackson Street, 11am to 6pm, Thursday through Saturday; 12pm to 6pm on Sunday; and 11am to 6pm on Monday. This year, FUMC offers a variety of unique and specialized pumpkins—some folks won’t find in local stores—perfect for decorating the home or festive celebrations.

This support directly benefits the church’s renowned preschool and daycare, a mission close to their hearts for 69 years. Proceeds will fund new sunshades for the playground, ensuring the children’s safety and extending their outdoor play season.

Join FUMC-Alexandria on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 12pm to 3pm, for the Fun Fall Festival featuring live music, festival games, jumpers, arts and crafts for children, a petting zoo, and festive Trunk or Treat cars. Don’t miss the delicious Jambalaya plate lunch along with hot dogs, cotton candy, popcorn, and snow cones—all available for purchase.

The City of Pineville will host its annual Fall Festival on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 5-8 p.m. at the Ward 9 Sports Complex.

This year’s event will feature an evening of family-friendly fun, food, and community activities. Members of the Pineville Police Department’s Community Affairs Division will serve hot dogs, while officers and members of the Fraternal Order of Police Red River Lodge #36 will distribute treats and goodies to attendees.

Organizers note that the festival has been relocated from Kees Park to the Ward 9 Sports Complex, located at 3311 Donahue Ferry Road. The new location offers increased parking availability and eliminates the need for pedestrians to cross or walk alongside a five-lane highway.

City officials encourage residents to come out and enjoy the festivities, which promise a safe and enjoyable evening for families and community members of all ages.

The Alexandria Rotary Club welcomed prolific author Ann Bausum of Wisconsin as a guest speaker this week.

Bausum, who has published 19 acclaimed titles since beginning her career in 2000, shared insights into her writing process, research methods, and the importance of documenting untold stories from history. Her works, many of which focus on themes of social justice and civil rights, have received national recognition and numerous literary honors.

During her presentation, Bausum spoke about the inspiration behind her books and the role of storytelling in preserving the voices and experiences that shape the nation’s past.

She will also appear as the guest author at the Westside Library on Thursday evening, Oct. 23.

Members of the Rotary Club expressed appreciation for Bausum’s visit and her engaging discussion about the power of history and narrative to inform and inspire future generations.

The Alexandria Police Department responded to a single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on Oct. 21 around 6:27 am on Broadway Avenue at Lee Street. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries. Routine toxicology samples were collected and will be submitted for analysis.

This is currently an ongoing investigation.

If anyone has any information about this incident or any other type of crime in the Alexandria area, please contact the Alexandria Police Detective Division at the phone number (318) 441-6416, or APD Dispatch (318) 441-6559. You may also email information to detectives at: APDDetectives@cityofalex.com.

For a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers of CenLa at (318) 443-7867. The Crime Stoppers P3 Tipster App can also be downloaded to leave tips and get a claim number for a cash reward at http://www.p3tips.com/community/mobile.

On October 22, 1942, a tragedy unfolded at sea that still sends shivers through maritime history. The British light cruiser HMS Curacoa was escorting the RMS Queen Mary, which was transporting nearly 20,000 American troops to Britain during World War II. In a catastrophic miscalculation, the Queen Mary accidentally rammed the Curacoa, slicing it in half.

The Queen Mary, nicknamed the “Grey Ghost” for her speed and stealth, was under orders never to stop, not even in emergencies. After the collision, the massive liner plowed forward, leaving behind the shattered cruiser and hundreds of men struggling in the cold Atlantic. Of the Curacoa’s crew, 338 perished. Survivors recalled the horror of watching their shipmates vanish as the Queen Mary steamed on.

The event was hushed during the war. News reports were minimal, and families often received vague notices of “lost at sea.” But among sailors, the story became a whispered legend of bad luck and restless spirits.

Today, the Queen Mary is docked in Long Beach, California, serving as a hotel and museum. It is also considered one of the most haunted places in America. Visitors and paranormal investigators frequently report hearing footsteps echoing in empty corridors, ghostly figures in naval uniforms, and even cries for help. Some believe the spirits of the Curacoa’s sailors followed the ship, bound forever to the vessel that could not stop for them.

Tour guides often point to “Door 13” in the engine room, where a crewman was crushed decades later, as one of the ship’s most active paranormal hotspots. But many say the true haunting stems from October 22, 1942, when hundreds of men were lost in the Atlantic’s icy embrace.

For those who walk the Queen Mary today, the line between history and haunting is thin. The ship’s grandeur hides its dark past, but echoes of the Curacoa disaster continue to reverberate—an eternal reminder of duty, sacrifice, and ghosts that never let go.

June 3, 1977 – October 18, 2025

Funeral services celebrating the life of Evans “T-Moose” Gaspard will be held at 6:00 PM on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Crossroads New Life Tabernacle, Deville, La., with the Revs. James White and Mike Deville officiating. A time of visitation will begin at 4:00 PM until time of services in the church.

Mr. Gaspard, age 48 of Deville, entered eternal rest on Saturday, October 18, 2025 in Willis Knighton Medical Center, Shreveport, La.

Evans, affectionately known by everyone as “T-Moose” was a native of Simmesport where he attended Simmesport High School then later Jummonville Area Vocational School where he learned his valuable trade as welder and fabricator.

He enjoyed attending church at Crossroads New Life Tabenacle in Deville. He made his living traveling the country as a welder and fabricator for plant turn-arounds. He had a love for hunting, fishing, home projects, which included boat building, and tending to his cattle.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Carol Gaspard and one brother, Larry Gaspard.

“T-Moose” is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Pam Deville Gaspard of Deville. Four children, Emilee Vead of Lettsworth, Amber Gaspard of Simmesport, Chris Konnaris (Tobi) of Ball and Tyler Fontanille of Hessmer. Three siblings, Susan Gaspard of Kenner, Donna Glaviano (Keith) of Batchelor and Dwayne Gaspard (Connie) of Dry Prong.

Three grandchildren, Kalissa Konnaris, Ryann Fontanille and Kaylee Reech. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He will be missed by all who knew him.

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

Mrs. Anna Maria Fallica Cleare, age 77, entered eternal rest on Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Alexandria at Christus St. Frances Cabrini Hospital.

Visitation for Mrs. Cleare will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Pentecostals of Alexandria from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Service will begin at 12 p.m. with Bishop Anthony Mangun officiating. Interment will take place in Alexandria Memorial Garden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Phillip Fallica and Glennis May Valentine Fallica.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 51 years, Terry Cleare; daughter, Glenna Cleare; grandson, Colton Sloan; brother, Joseph Fallica; sisters, Lena Fallica of Massachusetts; Sara Fallica of Massachusetts; Noreen Fallica-Karis (Peter) of New York, and Joann Fallica of Massachusetts; and extended family and friends.

Mrs. Cleare was a loving wife, mother, “Mimi”, and sister. She was always smiling, and her warm heart and personality never knew a stranger. Mrs. Cleare received the Holy Ghost on July 4, 1967 and was baptized in Jesus name that night, and she passionately followed Jesus and shared the Gospel with anyone she met. She faithfully attended the Pentecostals of Alexandria for many years; it was her home.

Her giving and selfless heart was most exampled in not only her adoption of their daughter Glenna, but she has been the sole caregiver for Mr. Terry over the past 14 years. She will forever be missed by those that loved and knew her.

By JIM BUTLER

A buzz started in City Hall on Monday when GAEDA posted notice of intentions to buy property in downtown Alexandria.

That agenda item for today’s 3:15 p.m. Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority meeting seems to have caught most interested parties by surprise.

The agenda includes discussion and adoption of a resolution authorizing financing purchase of property at 720 Murray St.  for $790,000.

Whether the Authority envisions establishing its permanent quarters on the site or securing it as an economic development attraction isn’t stated.

The potential financial commitment comes as GAEDA weighs its rescission options on an agreement to join the city on the Weiss & Goldring building restoration.

GAEDA’s part of that pact amounts to about $1.2 million.

The financing proposal for the Murray Street deal would go to the state Bond Commission where final approval is required.

Also on today’s agenda is discussion and approval of Executive Director Angela Varnado’s performance evaluation rubric, which in turn has bearing on any bonus qualifications in her contract.

The agenda includes no references to the La. Supreme Court recent ruling in the 2024 dispute over actions at what the court eventually ruled was an illegal meeting.

In the time between then and the ruling the Authority in essence did a redo on Varnado’s contract, among other things.

Plaintiff in that suit, John Callis, has urged the City Council to reshape the Authority or sunset it.

The Council, which meets at 5 p.m. today, has not responded. The Authority seems to be taking a water-under-the-bridge position.