Alexandria Senior High was two minutes away from a triumph at West Monroe Friday night, but the Rebels pulled a rabbit out of the hat and scored 10 points for a 34-31 upset of the No. 2 visitors.

That outcome dropped ASH five spots from second to seventh in this week’s Louisiana Sports Writers Association Class 5A Top 10 poll. West Monroe – whose only loss is to Class 4A’s No. 1 team, North DeSoto – rose from seventh to fourth in the state rankings.

WMHS tied the game on a 78-yard flanker screen with 1:45 to go, then recovered a fumble on the kickoff and moved upfield to kick a game-winning 28-yard field goal and upset ASH.

The Trojans host Pineville this Friday night. Then they close the regular season with more of the District 2-5A elite: at Ruston, hosting Ouachita, and at Neville.

The only other Rapides Parish team getting attention in the LSWA polls is 5-1 Tioga, which is receiving votes in Class 4A . The Indians host West Ouachita this week and could be on course for a Week 10 district championship game with No. 6 Franklin Parish.

Voting by 11 LSWA members who cover high school sports in different parts of the state produces the weekly state rankings.

Week 7 LSWA top 10 polls:  

Class 5A

School (first place votes), W-L, poll points, last week’s ranking 

1. Karr (11), 6-0, 132, 1

2. Ruston, 5-1, 112, 3

3. John Curtis, 5-0, 108, 4

4. West Monroe, 5-1, 92, 7

5. St. Augustine, 5-1, 85, 5

6. Zachary, 5-0, 79, 6

7. Alexandria Senior High, 5-1, 68, 2

8. Central, 5-1, 51, 8

9. Catholic-Baton Rouge, 4-2, 48, 49

10. Evangel Christian, 5-1, 28, 10

Others receiving votes: Archbishop Rummel 13, Destrehan 11, Neville 10, Ouachita 7, Parkway 6, Brother Martin 2, Southside 2, Thibodaux 2, Airline 1, Carencro 1.

Class 4A

1. North DeSoto (9), 6-0, 127, 1

2. Teurlings Catholic (2), 6-0, 122, 2

3. St. Thomas More, 4-2, 108, 3

4. Plaquemine, 5-1, 87, 4

5. Iowa, 6-0, 81, 5

6. Franklin Parish, 4-2, 71, 6

7. St. Charles, 5-1, 69, 8

8. Archbishop Shaw, 4-2, 59, 10

9. Lakeshore, 5-1, 47, 9

10. Vandebilt Catholic, 6-0, 25, NR

Others receiving votes: Franklinton 22, Belle Chasse 12, Tioga 7, Loyola 6, Westgate 6, E.D. White 5, Northwood 1, Lutcher 1.

Class 3A

1. Jewel Sumner (8), 6-0, 126, 1

2. Madison Prep (1), 5-1, 116, 3

3. Bunkie (1), 6-0, 101, 4

4. St. James, 4-2, 97, 2

5. University (1), 4-2, 93, 5

6. Sterlington, 4-2, 84, 6

7. Erath, 6-0, 67, 7

8. Church Point, 5-1, 51, 8

9. Jena, 5-1, 47, 9

10. Lake Charles Prep, 4-2, 28, NR

Others receiving votes: Jennings 20, Amite 12, John F. Kennedy 8, Marksville 7, Pine 1.

Class 2A

1. Ouachita Christian (7), 6-0, 123, 1

2. Lafayette Christian Academy (3), 5-1, 118, 2

3. Dunham (1), 5-1, 110, 3

4. Calvary Baptist, 5-1, 98, 4

5. Notre Dame, 5-1, 89, 5

6. Catholic-New Iberia, 5-1, 82, 6

7. Oak Grove, 5-1, 64, 8

8. South Plaquemines, 5-1, 51, 10

9. Lafayette Renaissance Charter, 5-1, 30, 7

10. Mangham, 5-1, 26, NR

Others receiving votes: Kinder 21, Ferriday 17, Union Parish 10, Newman 9, East Feliciana 5, D’Arbonne Woods 4, Northlake Christian 2, Country Day 1.

Class 1A

1. Haynesville (10), 6-0, 131, 1

2. Jeanerette (1), 6-0, 120, 2

3. Hamilton Christian, 5-0, 105, 3

4. Riverside Academy, 5-1, 101, 5

5. Westminster-Opelousas, 6-0, 68, 10

6. Covenant Christian, 4-2, 57, 7

7. Kentwood, 3-3, 49, 9

8. Ascension Episcopal, 5-1, 45, 8

9. Opelousas Catholic, 4-2, 41, 4

10. Southern Lab, 3-3, 37, 6

Others receiving votes: North Iberville 34, Ascension Catholic 19, Sacred Heart-Ville Platte 16, Logansport 10, Catholic-Pointe Coupee 4, St. Edmund 3, St. John-Plaquemine 3, Vermilion Catholic 3, St. Frederick 1.

On September 30, 1955, 23-year-old Donald Gene “Don” Turnupseed was returning to his home in Tulare, California, from California Polytechnic College in San Luis Obispo, California.  Don was a freshman at the college; in April of 1955, he had completed a four-year stint in the Navy and had enrolled at the college soon thereafter.  Don was driving east on Highway 466 (now Highway 46) in his five-year-old Ford Tudor on a trip that normally took about two and a half hours.  It was Friday evening, and Don was looking forward to spending a stress-free weekend with Barbara, his wife of five years.  Don could not imagine how stressful his life would soon become.    

At about 5:30, just before sunset on that Friday evening, Don had been driving almost an hour when he approached the intersection at Highway 41.  Don had to turn left to continue his trip to Tulare.  He was familiar with this drive and knew he only had to decrease his speed slightly because turning onto Highway 41 was more like veering than an actual turn.  Don could see about three miles in the distance on the long straight stretch, and the road seemed to disappear into the low mountains in the background.  Don saw no approaching vehicles, turned his steering wheel slightly to the left, and began to veer onto Highway 41.  Don was unable to see the low, sleek, silver-gray convertible sports car driving towards him in the opposite lane until it was too late.  The two cars struck almost head-on.   

Don, in the bigger, heavier car received only minor bruises and a cut on his nose.  The two people in the sports car were not so lucky.  The driver of the sports car was unconscious and trapped in the crushed car.  His passenger received numerous injuries when he was thrown from the sports car.  People who stopped to help found him lying unconscious on the side of the road.  It took an ambulance about half an hour to reach the site of the crash.  Ambulance driver Paul Moreno noted that both the driver and passenger of the sports car were alive when taken from the site of the accident, but the driver died during the 24-mile drive back to War Memorial Hospital in Paso Robles.  His passenger eventually recovered.  Don told the California Highway Patrolman on the scene, “I looked but didn’t see him coming.”  A driver who was just behind Don at the time of the crash said he also failed to see the approaching car.  Don was eventually released by the highway patrolman and told that he could “probably catch a ride home.”  Don flagged down a passing car and arrived at the hospital in Tulare six and a half hours after the accident.  It was there that he learned that the driver of the other car had not survived.  

Don was distraught and avoided speaking about the tragic accident.  He gave just a single interview, which was on the day after the accident, but reminders of the tragedy were everywhere.  Photos of the driver who died in the accident appeared on coffee mugs, plates, t-shirts, book and magazine covers, statuettes, and a plethora of other items.  He became a pop culture icon.  On July 13, 1995, almost 40 years after the accident, Don died from lung cancer.  He was finally at peace.  The intersection where the accident occurred is now a memorial junction named after the driver of the sports car who died in the accident.  That intersection is called the James Dean Memorial Junction.

Sources:

1. Tulare Advance-Register, October 1, 1955, p.1.
2. “Donald Gene Turnupseed,” Findagrave.com, accessed October 12, 2025, https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/10990655/donald-gene-turnupseed.

Due to ongoing construction at the Rapides Parish Courthouse, the back entrance on Johnston Street will be closed from Oct. 20–24, 2025.

Visitors are asked to use the front entrance located at 701 Murray Street during this time.

The parish appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation while improvements are underway.

The Pineville Police Department, Pineville Fire Department, and Pafford EMS responded to an incident the morning of Oct. 13 at Stella Jones Corporation, located at 74 Wadley Street in Pineville. Emergency personnel arrived on scene, and one individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital.

At this time, there are no indications that this is a criminal matter. No additional information will be released regarding this incident.

Martha Ann Packer Lewis, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, was born on November 6, 1960, and peacefully passed away on October 3, 2025, at the age of 64, in the comfort of her home. Martha’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and unwavering faith, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Martha was a vibrant spirit, known for her infectious laughter and warm heart. She dedicated her life to her family, nurturing her loved ones with kindness and compassion. Her unwavering support and encouragement inspired those around her to pursue their dreams and embrace life’s challenges with courage. Martha had a unique ability to make everyone feel special, and her home was always a welcoming haven filled with love and laughter.

A service celebrating Martha’s remarkable life and legacy will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Second Union Missionary Baptist Church, located at 6436 Old Baton Rouge, LA 71302. Public viewing and visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, leading into the service at 11:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to gather and share their cherished memories of Martha, honoring the profound impact she had on their lives.

Following the church service, a graveside service will take place at the Biloxi National Cemetery, 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi, MS 39531, on Monday, October 20, 2025. Viewing will commence at 1:30 PM, followed by a brief service to honor Martha’s legacy.

In this time of sorrow, we ask that you keep Martha’s family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this profound loss. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy of love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Martha Ann Packer Lewis will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

~Miller & Hill “The Funeral Directors”

Graveside services for Mrs. Elizabeth Louise Neal Vanderburg were held on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Pollock Cemetery, with Charles Frazier officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mrs. Vanderburg, 87, of Pollock, entered eternal rest on Thursday, October 9, 2025, in her residence surrounded by her loving family.

She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoyed quilting, and spending time with her ladies’ prayer group. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Vanderberg; her parents, John and Maudie Neal; and one brother, John Michael Neal.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include one son, Warren Camp, Jr. of Pollock; two daughters, Frances Watson (Tommy) of Prospect, and Cindy Tingle of Texas; one sister, Diane Coleman of Pollock; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Friends may post online messages of condolences for the Vanderburg family by visiting rushfh.com.

By JIM BUTLER

Alexandria and Pineville zoning panels meet this week to consider land use requests.

The Alexandria commission convenes at 4 p.m. today with two petitions on its agenda.

VBV Management seeks a change from B-3 Business to C-1 Limited Commercial for 3415 and 3419 Nelson Street, just off MacArthur Drive.

The change would allow operation of a fast-food franchise on the property. Vincent Verzwyvelt is listed as petitioner.

Ainsworth Investments, represented by Davin Ainsworth, wants to locate a residential project at 700 Belleau Wood Boulevard off Jackson Street.

The 6.37 acres near Walmart are currently designated C-2 General Commercial; SF-3 Single Family High Density is requested. The petition indicates 13 units.

At its 4:30 meeting Tuesday afternoon the Pineville panel will consider a request for residential designation of six acres on Military Highway.

The address is listed as 2445, indicating the tract is a portion of the former Berwick estate south of Baywood Drive.

Petitioners William Leatherman and Alvin Hernandez are seeking an R-1 Residential usage assignment.

Recommendations by the panels are forwarded to the respective city councils.

Pineville High School senior Riley B. has been named a 2026 National Merit Semifinalist, placing him among the top academic performers in the nation.

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes high school students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Riley’s accomplishment reflects his dedication to learning and the strong academic support provided by Pineville High faculty and staff.

The Rapides Parish School District congratulates Riley on this outstanding honor and looks forward to celebrating his continued success.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) named Scott Gammel of Alexandria International Airport as the recipient of the Allen R. Taylor Legacy Award, recognizing his leadership and lasting contributions to Louisiana’s aviation industry.

The honor was presented at the 2025 Louisiana Airport Managers and Associates Annual Conference in Lake Charles. The award highlights individuals whose careers have demonstrated outstanding commitment, innovation, and service within the state’s aviation community.

DOTD Secretary Glenn Ledet, Jr. congratulated this year’s honorees, noting the importance of aviation to Louisiana’s transportation network for both passengers and cargo.

Gammel was recognized alongside Maurice “Moe” Songy of Acadiana Regional Airport/LeMaire Memorial Airport, recipient of the David Slayter Memorial Aviation Professional of the Year Award, and Chennault International Airport in Lake Charles, which received the Louisiana Airport of the Year award for general aviation.

DOTD Deputy Secretary Julia Fisher-Cormier commended all three honorees for their excellence in advancing aviation operations and infrastructure across the state.

The annual awards program celebrates airport professionals who exemplify safety, innovation, and professionalism—key elements in maintaining Louisiana’s robust aviation system.

Louisiana folk music group Smithfield Fair will be named Louisiana Tradition Bearers by the Louisiana Folklife Commission and honored at a ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 7:15 p.m. on the Fulton Mini-Park Stage on 3rd Street during the Arts Council of Central Louisiana Fall ArtWalk in downtown Alexandria.

Serving as a Folklife Ambassador for the Louisiana Folklife Commission, Dr. Shane Rasmussen, professor of English and director of the Louisiana Folklife Center at Northwestern State University, will talk with the band about their lifetime endeavors preserving Louisiana’s traditional folk music. A music performance by Smithfield Fair will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

Smithfield Fair is Louisiana’s longest continuously performing roots-oriented singer/songwriter ensemble. Founded by Alexandria singer/guitarist Dudley-Brian Smith in 1973 to focus on roots-oriented original songs in a vocal and acoustic instrument setting, he was soon joined by his brothers Bob on acoustic bass and Joel on acoustic guitar. The Smith brothers’ first release, “A Place In Your Heart,” was on Floyd Soileau’s One Way Records in 1977. After establishing the Alexandria-based independent label Rapides the harmonizing brothers released two albums. Upon Joel’s temporary departure in 1983 to travel in Europe, singer/songwriter Jan Dedon Smith of a Baton Rouge musical family joined on vocals, accordion, guitar and piano.

In 1989 after more albums and concert tours (including with Louisiana’s LeRoux and Zachary Richard), and with the return of Joel Smith, the group changed its name from Charmer to Smithfield Fair to celebrate its mutual Scottish heritage. They signed with Centaur World Records and achieved international distribution and recognition. Joel Smith departed again in 1990 and over the following 20+ years, the group continued to release more albums and perform 40-45 weekends a year throughout North America and Scotland. Performing with a who’s who of Scottish and Celtic luminaries, they became known as one of North America’s foremost presenters of Scottish traditional music and original songs written in traditional styles. They have now returned to a broader roots-based genre.

As the Smith brothers had come up through the folk boom of the 1960s and early 70s, they shared a love of traditional forms of music. Their father was a noted Cenla swing and church musician, their mother a radio standards singer and both grandmothers were music and voice teachers. Therefore, the broad variety of music in Louisiana’s Crossroads resonated strongly with them. Their original songs are a melting pot of folk, swing, pop, blues, gospel, jazz, classical, Celtic and Cajun roots. They have just released their 36th album, adding to their rich collection of both vocal and instrumental recordings. They continue to receive international radio airplay, and their music has been featured in film, television, web programs and short-form documentaries. Their song “Sweet Sugar Cane” has been used for many years as the theme for the American Sugar Cane League. The current and longest-standing line-up is Dudley-Brian Smith (vocals, acoustic guitars, mandolin, harmonica, recorder), Jan Smith (vocals, accordion, piano, acoustic guitars) and Bob Smith (vocals, acoustic bass, percussion),

The ceremony, discussion and music performance are part of a series of events throughout the state for Folklife Month in Louisiana. The event is sponsored by the Arts Council of Central Louisiana, the Louisiana Folklife Center, the Louisiana Folklore Society and the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. Funding is also provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works and the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, in collaboration with the Louisiana Folklife Commission.

For more information, call the Louisiana Folklife Center at (318) 357-4332, email folklife@nsula.edu, or go to nsula.edu/folklife/.

By RICHARD THIBERVILLE JR., Louisiana Christian University Sports Information Director

FORT WORTH, Texas – The Louisiana Christian University football team, which received votes in the most recent NAIA Top 25 Coaches Poll, went shot-for-shot early with No. 20 Texas Wesleyan, but the Rams pulled away in the second quarter for a 61-28 Sooner Athletic Conference triumph Saturday evening at the Crowley ISD Multi-Purpose Stadium.
 
Louisiana Christian (4-3, 3-1 SAC) struck first when Bryce Perkins found Brenen Hawkins for a 10-yard touchdown pass on the game’s first drive, after 13 plays, 73 yards, and 4:34 off the clock.
 
Texas Wesleyan (4-2, 4-0 SAC) needed just two plays to respond, hitting a 61-yard touchdown pass to tie the score at 7.
 
LCU needed just two plays to go back in front as Perkins hit EJ Scott for a 72-yard touchdown to put the Wildcats back up 14-7 just six minutes into the first quarter.
 
After a couple of defensive stops, the Rams tied things again with a two-yard run, making it 14-14.
 
LCU started the second quarter going back in front when Datlan Cunningham ended a 10-play, 75-yard Wildcat drive with a 3-yard touchdown rush, giving Louisiana Christian a 21-14 lead.
 
But that’s where Texas Wesleyan found in its groove both offensively and defensively. The Rams hit on a 75-yard touchdown pass on the first play of the ensuing possession which not only tied the score at 21-21 but also started a run of 24 straight points to end the half, producing a 38-21 lead.
 
The run continued into the third quarter as the Rams added a pair of field goals to extend the advantage to 44-21.
 
Cunningham broke loose for a 64-yard touchdown rush, ending a four-play, 60-yard drive that took only 1:09 off the clock, cutting the Ram lead down to 44-28.
 
Texas Wesleyan started the fourth quarter with an interception return for touchdown, the first of 17 points the Rams scored in the final 15 minutes.
 
Perkins hit 18 of his 36 pass attempts for 250 yards and two scoring tosses but was intercepted three times.
 
His top target was Scott who had five catches for 122 yards and a score.
 
 
Cunningham was given the rock 18 times and ran for 97 yards with two scores.
 
Nate Sullivan led the LCU defense with nine total tackles.  Voorhies III and Judson Mixon both had eight tackles with Mixon getting credited with 2.5 tackles for loss.
 
The Wildcats head back home for three straight, starting with homecoming next Saturday as LCU hosts Nelson (1-4, 1-3 SAC) at 6 p.m.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Oct. 12

Marvin Louis Balthazar, 62, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery intentional serious injury, no bail data;

Amber Camille Baysden, 34, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, improper headlight equipment, tail lamps, $1,300 bail;

Kyler Blanton, 20, Natchez – reckless operation, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, no bail data;

Benjamin Cal Brown Jr., 52, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, OWI first offense, open container, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,700 bail;

Troy Serpas, 22, Hammond – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, $1,600 bail;

Nakeita Latornious Williams, 37, Alexandria – four counts contempt of court, $76,500 bail;

Oct. 11

Zachary Tyler Babin, 29, Dry Prong – three counts domestic abuse battery, no bail data;

Mycah Aiden Chapman, 28, Pineville – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

James Allen Deleery, 34, Alexandria – two counts theft, $25,500 bail;

Jakub Ray Desoto, 24, Alexandria – second subsequent conviction theft, contempt of court, no bail data;

Danny Ray Evans, 50, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, improper lane usage, tail lamps, OWI first offense, contempt fail to pay fine,

Brandi Renee Ferrier, 47, Forest Hill – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, $1,600 bail;

Daniel Wade Fontenot, 57, Pineville – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Terri Lynn Green, 49, Deville – three counts contempt of court, $30,000 bail;

Phillip Hayward, 46, Alexandria – OWI first offense, driving under suspension, open container, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,300 bail;

Jamari Richard, 17, Pineville – illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of handgun by a juvenile, bicycle reflectors, aggravated resisting with force or violence, obstructions of justice, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, $23,600 bail;

Sawyer Adam Thompson, 28, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, obstruct court orders, running a stop sign, four counts improper turn, resisting an officer, $1,250 bail;

Parker Charles Vernon, 28, Alexandria – two counts violation of protective orders, $100,000 bail.

Oct. 10

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

Arcenio Ramon Bowie, 36, Lecompte – second degree murder, attempted second degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, $1.5 million bail;

Kynjy Morrice Brown, 46, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing with intent, possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of marijuana, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, parole violations, $51,000 bail;

Marcus De’Angelos Brown, 36, Alexandria – aggravated battery, domestic abuse battery, obstruction of justice, $16,000 bail;

Makari Keon Cotton, 20, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, probation violation, $50,500 bail;

Roy Randall Jr., 38, Alexandria – possession of phencyclidine, contempt of court, $21,000 bail;

Isaac O’Neal Sanders, 19, Pineville – aggravated battery, aggravated with a firearm assault, home invasion, $30,000 bail;

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

Askia Waheed Jr., 40, Alexandria – armed robbery, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, resisting an officer, contempt of court, $257,000 bail;

Brittany Re’veanna Wicks, 35, Pineville – three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail.

Oct. 9

John Earl Batiste, 45, Alexandria – possession of CDS, $1,500 bail;

Michelle Laurie Christian, 57, Pineville – two counts issuing worthless checks, contempt of court, $3,500 bail;

Brendyn Samuel Clark, 25, Odessa – flight from an officer, resisting an officer, reckless operation of a vehicle, no motorcycle endorsement, improper display vehicle license plate, no insurance, $3,800 bail;

James Darrell Dearbonne Jr., 33, Alexandria – five counts contempt of court, $200,500 bail;

Jerret Dunlap, 38, Alexandria – possession of CDS, five counts of contempt of court, $8,500 bail;

Jasmine Janae Harrison, 28, Alexandria – theft, possession of CDS, six counts contempt of court, $35,000 bail;

Lashanta M. Hughes, 49, Pineville – speeding, no insurance, intentional littering prohibited, two counts resisting an officer, two counts contempt of court, $6,200 bail;

Jamaria Dejuan Johnson, 24, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, probation violation, contempt of court, $2,500 bail;

Jermaine Johnson, 52, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, contempt of court, $77,500 bail;

Darnell Mims, 40, Alexandria – theft of a firearm, $5,000 bail;

Anthony Strong, 59, Alexandria – theft, parole violations, $5,000 bail;

Ralph Ellis Weems Jr., 52, Deville – five counts contempt of court, $87,500 bail;

Dontarius L. Williams, 25, Alexandria – illegal carry firearm with drugs, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, resisting an officer, two counts illegal carrying firearm at a parade, $30,500 bail.

Oct. 8

Quentin Jermaine Ceasar Jr., 26, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal carry firearm with drugs, safety belt violation, $25,600 bail;

Jo Ann Celestine, 55, Alexandria – simple battery, two counts contempt of court, $8,000 bail;

Malcolm Rashod Fay, 26, Alexandria – possession of paraphernalia, remaining on premises, 11 counts of contempt of court, $23,750 bail;

Raydrian Jaquan Fisher, 19, Alexandria – attempted second degree murder, firearm free zone, second degree battery, contempt of court, $75,000 bail;

Kenneth Lamarth Hayes, 54, Pineville – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

John T. Jones Jr., 22, Pineville – domestic abuse battery, criminal abandonment, three counts contempt of court, $227,000 bail;

Blaine Paul Leonard, 22, Ball – aggravated assault with a firearm, $5,000 bail;

Adrian L. Logan, 43, Woodworth – simple burglary, $2,500 bail;

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

Kori Quartez Mock, 26, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, criminal conspiracy, possession of drug paraphernalia, no driver’s license, safety belt violation, obstruction of justice, $30,700 bail;

Elizabeth J. Phillips, 42, Pineville – flight from an officer, resisting an officer, possession of CDS, resisting an officer, running a stop sign, running a red light, no vehicle registration, no signals, improper lane usage, contempt of court, Louisiana fugitive, $14,000 bail;

Juhntel Shawn Savage, 36, Alexandria – burglary of an inhabited dwelling, parole violations, $2,500 bail;

Jaamal Lee Smith, 36, Alexandria – aggravated battery, aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, two counts contempt of court, $55,000 bail;

Glendell Wesley, 48, Alexandria – second degree murder, two counts aggravated assault with a firearm, resisting an officer, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, possession of firearm by a convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, concealed negligent carry handgun, $198,500 bail;

Johnny Lewis Wilson, 61, Alexandria – remaining on premises, eight counts contempt of court, $16,250 bail;

Kenneth Lee Woodruff Jr., 46, Duson – three counts possession of CDS, simple burglary, simple escape, $11,500 bail.

Kiwanis of Alexandria along with our sponsored Key Clubs (ASH, Menard, Peabody) and Circle K Club at LSUA cook, flip, and serve pancakes and sausage to family, friends, and neighbors on a fun-filled Saturday morning each fall. Funds raised are used by Key Clubs and Circle K for service projects and by Kiwanis for the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria Foundation – Scholarship Fund which awards scholarships to selected Key Club and Youth Challenge Program graduates.

The 2025 Pancake Breakfast will be on Saturday, November 1, at the First United Methodist Church. Click for details and tickets available from club members or at the door.

November 12, 1941 – October 7, 2025

Funeral services celebrating the life of Mr. Gerald Cross were held on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at The Pentecostals of Alexandria, (G.A. Mangun Center) with the Rev. James Lormand officiating, followed by a funeral procession to Tammy Jo Busby Memorial Cemetery in Hineston for interment.

Mr. Cross, age 83 of Pineville, entered eternal rest on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at Christus Cabrini Hospital, Alexandria.

Gerald was a native of Alexandria, where he was a graduate of Bolton High School, “Class of 1962”. He was a member of the “Pentecostals of Alexandria”. Gerald worked for many years in Radio and Television News, where he especially loved being the anchor man for KLFY in Lafayette and KPLC in Lake Charles.

He was also very proud to have been chosen as Edwin Edwards’ Press Secretary in 1967. In his later years, Gerald also worked as an Automotive Salesman in Lake Charles and Alexandria.

He loved hunting and fishing, and played a very active role in his children and grandchildren’s lives. He always made time to be present at all the family events. Gerald was very much a people person, hence never meeting a stranger and it was rare to have found him not talking. He also loved listening to music. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Gerald is preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Shirley Busby Cross, and his parents, Clifton and Loy Cross.

He is survived by two daughters, Melanie Elliott of Pineville and Mendy Baker (John) of Alexandria, two sons, Mark Cross (Ginger) of Pollock and Michael Cross (Julie) of Huntsville, Arkansas, and nine grandchildren, Jordain Slaydon, Dustin Cross, Delia Cross Higgins, Dakota Cross, Matthew Cross, Parker Elliott, Scott Cross, Kassidy Cross and Clinton Cross. He is also survived by fifteen great grandchildren.
Pallbearers honored to serve will be; Matt Cross, Michael Cross, Clint Cross, Ethan Miller, John Baker and Carter Cross.

Honorary pallbearers were Mark Cross and Lamuel Holmes.

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

Funeral services for Kathi Burns will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Woodworth Mary Mother of Jesus Catholic Church, 9323 US-165 N, Woodworth, LA 71485, with Father Paul LaPalme officiating. Interment will follow in the Alexandria Memorial Gardens, 8855 US-165 N, Woodworth, LA 71485. Arrangements professionally directed by White Oaks Funeral Home, Oakdale.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m., and Tuesday, from 9 a.m. until time of mass at 11 a.m.

Kathi Burns, of Forest Hill, entered eternal rest on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center. She was the beloved daughter to Keith Langston & Alma Langston. Kathi was the heart of her family and a true friend to many. She had a servant’s heart and went above and beyond in all things throughout her life. She was very committed to her faith in Christ. Kathi was a strong person and a very hard worker at whatever she set her mind to. Earlier in life she loved offering beauty as a hairdresser. However, later, she loved offering wellness and health to her friends and clients as a massage therapist, known as “The Legend”. Kathi loved hosting family gatherings and baking cookies with her grandchildren. She wholeheartedly loved her husband, children and grandchildren. She also loved watching and enjoying her LSU and New Orleans Saints football teams. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is preceded in death by her father, Keith Langston and mother, Alma Reitzell; her brothers, Jimmy Langston, Keithal Langston, Kevin Reitzell and Mark Reitzell.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 56 years, Robin Burns; one son, George “Juan” Burns, and one daughter, Marie Burns; one grandson, Matthew Burns; one step-granddaughter, Heather Manwell; one great grandchild, Cole Burns; one sister, Ellen Sasser; and a host of other family.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be George “Juan” Burns, Matthew Burns, Donald Burns, Tommy Burns, Nathan Burns, Wayne Broussard and Mitch Charrier.

Luncheon to be served after the cemetery service

 By JIM BUTLER

Taking a quick look at three noteworthy upcoming events, two today.

Book signing today

Paul Cornelius Ferrant was a farmer, aerial gunner and Louisiana minister during his long life (101 years).
Verona Ferrant Harp of Ball will sign copies of her biography of her father, “World War II Veteran in the Army of Peace,” at 2 p.m. today at Tioga’s Robertson Library

Ferrant was a tail gunner over Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944. After the war he attended Louisiana Christian University before embarking on a ministerial life.

Alumni honored

Four Distinguished Alumni will be honored at tonight’s Holy Savior Menard homecoming game versus Oakdale.

Gayle Aertker Crotty, the late Allen Eskew and Terry Mathews, and Timothy Petrus are the second group of Holy Savior Menard, Menard Memorial and Providence Central graduates to be so honored for accomplishments and contributions to society.

The game begins at 7 p.m. at the Menard stadium on LA 28 West.

GAEDA Lunch and Learn

Monday is the deadline for reserving a place at the Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority’s community-focused Lunch & Learn.

The October 17 (next Friday) event will feature keynote speaker Gregory B. O’Quin of Financial Services Group.

The gathering is to allow community leaders, business owners and economic development partners opportunity to view avenues for building a stronger community.

It will be at Hotel Bentley from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m.  

Attendance RSVP can be made through Monday at avarnado@gaeda.org.

More information: 318-880-9407. 

The Town of Ball invites the community to come to the Roast of Brian Cespiva on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 6:30pm at the Community Center (100 Municipal Ln., Ball). 

Come help the town honor (and heckle) Mr. Cespiva for his 30 years of surviving as Town Attorney for the Town of Ball. A reception will follow the Town Council meeting. Bring jokes, memories, and playful jabs – the town will provide the fire extinguisher.