Trojans move up in 5A poll

After an impressive win last Friday, the Alexandria Senior High Trojans have risen one spot to sixth in the Class 5A state high school football rankings voted by a Louisiana Sports Writers Association panel.

ASH (3-0) won 27-21 at then No. 9-ranked Destrehan. Meanwhile, No. 4 Neville was drubbed by Oak Grove (Miss.) and slipped three spots to allow the Trojans to move forward.

The only other Rapides Parish team to receive voting support in any classification was Tioga (2-1), which got three points in the Class 4A balloting. The Indians scored a resounding 56-14 win at crosstown rival Pineville, previously unbeaten, last Friday night.

ASH is at home Friday night against Opelousas (0-2). Tioga goes on the road to face Richwood (1-2) in Monroe.

This week’s voting by a panel of 11 regional high school sports journalists who are LSWA members:

Class 5A

School (1st place votes), points, last week’s rank

  1. Karr (11), 3-0, 132, 1
  2. Catholic-Baton Rouge, 3-0, 117, 2
  3. Ruston, 3-0, 114, 3
  4. Central, 3-0, 87, 5
  5. St. Augustine, 3-0,  81, 6
  6. Alexandria  Senior High, 3-0, 78, 7
  7. Neville,  2-1,  63, 4
  8. John Curtis, 2-0, 62, 8
  9. Zachary, 3-0, 50, 9
  10. Brother Martin, 3-0, 23, NR

Others receiving votes: Archbishop Rummel 17, Destrehan 9, Terrebonne 8, Evangel Christian 7, Ouachita 5, Covington 3, Jesuit 2, Airline 1.

Class 4A

  1. North DeSoto (9), 3-0, 127, 2
  2. Teurlings Catholic (2), 3-0, 110, 3
  3. Franklin Parish, 2-1, 102, 1

(tie) St. Thomas More, 1-2, 102, 4

  1. Franklinton, 2-1, 79, 6
  2. Lakeshore,  3-0, 73, 7
  3. St. Charles, 3-0, 71, 8
  4. Plaquemine, 2-1, 55, 9
  5. Iowa, 3-0, 46, NR
  6. Archbishop Shaw, 1-2,  39, 5

Others receiving votes: Vandebilt Catholic 16, Cecilia 10, E.D. White 8, Lutcher 6, Tioga 3, Westgate 3, Belle Chasse 1.

Class 3A

  1. Jewel Sumner (4), 3-0, 115, 4
  2. St. James (2), 2-1, 113, 1
  3. Sterlington (2), 2-1, 111, 2
  4. Madison Prep (1), 2-1, 95, 3
  5. Bunkie (1), 3-0, 91, 6
  6. Jena, 3-0, 80, 7
  7. University (1), 1-2, 72, 5
  8. Lake Charles College Prep, 2-1, 53, 8
  9. Church Point, 2-1, 40, 9
  10. Erath, 3-0, 38, NR

Others receiving votes: Jennings 21, Amite 11, Marksville 7, John F. Kennedy 7, Westlake 3, De La Salle 1.

Class 2A

  1. Lafayette Christian Academy (10), 3-0, 130, 1
  2. Ouachita Christian, 3-0, 116, 2
  3. Catholic-New Iberia (1), 3-0, 109, 4
  4. Dunham, 2-1, 95, 2
  5. Calvary Baptist, 2-1, 94, 6
  6. Notre Dame, 2-1, 67, 5
  7. Lafayette Renaissance Charter,  3-0, 56,  8
  8. Oak Grove, 2-1, 54, 9
  9. Ferriday, 3-0, 44,10
  10. South Plaquemines, 2-1, 33, 7

Others receiving votes: Kinder 16, Mangham 13, Union Parish 11, Northlake Christian 8, Newman 4, East Feliciana 3, Episcopal-Baton Rouge 3, Northeast 2.

Class 1A

  1. Haynesville (11), 3-0, 132, 1
  2. Opelousas Catholic,  3-0, 119, 2
  3. Jeanerette, 3-0, 101, 3
  4. Covenant Christian, 2-1, 92, 4
  5. Southern Lab, 2-1, 85, 5
  6. Hamilton Christian, 3-0, 70, 6
  7. Vermilion Catholic, 1-2, 63, 7

(tie) Riverside, 2-1, 63, 8

  1. Kentwood,1-2, 45, 9
  2. Ascension Catholic, 2-1, 38,10

Others receiving votes: Ascension Episcopal 14, North Iberville 14, Westminster-Opelousas 9, Logansport 4, St. Edmund 4, General Trass 4, Grand Lake 2, Sacred Heart-Ville Platte 1.


National Hunting and Fishing Day to be held Sept. 27 throughout Louisiana 

Louisiana’s National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD) will be held Sept. 27 at four locations across the state, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced.

Waddill Wildlife Refuge in Baton Rouge, Woodworth Shooting Range in Woodworth, the Tom Merrill Recreation Area at Bodcau Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Haughton, and Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge in Monroe will host this year’s event, sponsored by the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation.

NHFD is a fun and FREE family event for all ages! Attendees can try their skills at the shooting ranges, fishing ponds, and boating activities, and learn about wildlife with live animal demonstrations. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. 

While each location’s event varies, all include exhibits on LDWF’s research and conservation efforts, shooting and fishing demonstrations, and exhibits from local chapters of Ducks Unlimited, the Safari Club and the Coastal Conservation Association, as well as local businesses.

NHFD has become a tradition since its establishment in the early 1970s. Since then, every fourth Saturday in September is dedicated to Louisiana’s popular outdoor pastimes. LDWF introduced its first NHFD event in 1982 at the Monroe District Office, and in the following years, additional locations were added to its roster.

Event details are as follows:

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge
480 Richland Place Drive
Monroe, LA
9am to 2pm
318-343-4044

Waddill Wildlife Refuge
4142 North Flannery Road
Baton Rouge, LA 70814
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
225-765-2927

Woodworth Shooting Range
661 Robinson Bridge Road
Woodworth, LA 71485
8am to 1:30pm
318-484-2212

Bodcau WMA
Tom Merrill Recreation Area
914 Bodcau Dam Road
Haughton, LA 71037
9am to 2pm
318-478-0118

For more information, go to https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/nhfd.


The Rapides Foundation releases annual report for 2024

The Rapides Foundation’s 2024 Annual Report is now available. 
 
This year’s report, “30 Years: One Mission,” reflects on three decades of impact across Central Louisiana. The report contains highlights from the Foundation’s history, stories of progress in their Healthy People, Education and Healthy Communities priority areas, and a look ahead to the future of their mission.
 
Read the report online at https://bit.ly/3W0nVBG

Arrest made in threats to Oak Hill High School

Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives responded to reports of a threat to Oak Hill High School through social media on Sunday, Sept. 21. Initially, detectives thought this was related to a social media post from Thursday night which resulted in a juvenile suspect being identified.  The post was very vague and no actual threat was made and was therefore deemed not viable.
 
Sunday’s threat was more specific and referenced a shooting that was to occur on Monday, Sept. 22.  Detectives began their investigation and with the assistance of the RPSO Cyber Crime Unit, which, after several hours, lead to the identification of a juvenile allegedly making  the threat.  Detectives also determined this threat was not related in any way to last week.
 
During the investigation, Sheriff Wood was in constant contact with Rapides Parish School Superintendent Jeff Powell and, out of an abundance of caution, recommended to Superintendent Powell to close the school on Monday so RPSO detectives could conduct a thorough investigation as obtaining information through social media company’s takes time.
 
Sheriff’s detectives continued their investigation into the night and were able to positively identify a juvenile suspect who created the social media post on a fake Snapchat account.  Sheriff’s detectives located the juvenile, placed them under arrest and placed them in the Renaissance Home for Youth.
 
This is still an ongoing investigation and if anyone has any further information, they are asked to contact RPSO at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.
 
RPSO appreciates the Oak Hill community and the Rapides Parish School Board for their patience and assistance in this investigation.

BOM presented a check to the YWCA

BOM presented a check to the YWCA of Alexandria-Pineville benefiting the Pineville Girls on the Run of Central Louisiana. Pictured left to right: Morgan Melder (Program Director), Anita Aghomi, Emmalyn Crocker, Brehianna Flores, BOM’s Mandy Futrell, and Marle Chapman (Executive Director).


Kees Park, splash pad fall hours begin

Following the start of fall, Kees Park has revised its hours. Effective Monday, Sept. 22, Kees Park and the splash pad will begin closing at 6pm. The splash pad will remain accessible until Oct. 5. Park hours will be 8am to 6pm. The splash pad hours will be 10am – 6pm Monday- Friday, and 9am until 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.


Notice of Death – September 22, 2025

Betty Jo Vaughn Kinder
April 17, 1941 – September 20, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 10am at Alexandria Memorial Gardens, Woodworth.

Bobby Dale Paul
March 21, 1953 – September 20, 2025
Service: Friday, September 26, 2025, 11am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, Deville. 

Leon “Uncle Leon” Woodson
November 20, 1938 – September 20, 2025
Service: Thursday, September 25, 2025, 10am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Steve Pennington, III
May 25, 1963 – September 19, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Loyd Ray Wade
July 19, 1936 – September 19, 2025
Service: Friday, September 26, 2025, 12pm at Abundant Grace Church, Deville. 

Kerry Brian Jane’t
May 13, 1991 – September 18, 2025
Service: Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 11am at Mighty Church, Pineville. 

James Weston Massey, Sr.
May 14, 1929 – September 16, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Mary “Fran” Peel
September 25, 1951 – September 16, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Catherine Ann Burgess
July 22, 1943 – September 15, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 10am at Second Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Alison Brooke “Alley” Dasko
February 27, 1981 – September 14, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Sasuke Kamoin Mack
May 19, 2025 – September 14, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 11am at Kramer & Son Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Superintendent James R. Roland
December 22, 1950 – September 14, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at raise Trinity Christian Ministries Church of God in Christ, Alexandria. 

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

Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!


RPSO asks public’s assistance in identifying theft suspect

Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives from the Tioga Substation are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a female person of interest in a theft investigation from a local grocery store.
 
According to initial information, on Sept. 17, a white female subject allegedly took several packages of steaks and left the business without paying.
 
If anyone has any information on the identity of this subject, they are asked to contact Det. Susan Mosley, Criminal Investigations Division-Tioga Substation at 318-641-6000, Main Office at 318-473-6700, or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.

Alexandria International Airport honors aviation inventors

Alexandria International Airport (AEX) held a ceremony on Friday, Sept. 19, honoring the legacies of late Central Louisiana natives, Charles Frederick Page and Paul Leo Ortego, both of whom received aviation-related patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Attendees from across the state gathered in the terminal to learn about and memorialize the inventors’ contributions to aviation through new murals and historical markers. Speakers included Ralph Hennessy, England Airpark executive director; Michael Wynne, historian and author; Joseph P. Page, grandson of Charles Page; and Marian Nevill, niece of Ortego.

“We are here today to recognize the aviation legacies of Mr. Page and Mr. Ortego,” stated Hennessy. “It’s an honor to not only display these permanent reminders of their inventions, but also to host members of the Ortego and Page families and the aviation community. Thanks to the England Economic and Industrial Development District Board of Commissioners, mural artists Jed and Liz Cornett of Smoking Monk Studio, and others for their involvement in bringing us to this momentous occasion.”

About England Airpark

The England Economic and Industrial Development District is an independent political subdivision of the State of Louisiana. England Airpark encompasses approximately 4,000 acres and includes Alexandria International Airport (AEX). As a mixed-use development offering convenient connectivity through air, interstate highway, rail, and port access, the Airpark features more than 300 residential units and 1.5 million square feet of commercial space, supporting aviation, transportation, manufacturing, education, and engineering sectors. Learn more at www.englandairpark.org.

About Charles Frederick Page

Charles Frederick Page was presumably born enslaved in Rapides Parish and lived in Pineville, where he built a flyable airship by 1904. He received a patent for his invention two years later. He intended to exhibit his creation at the 1904 Louisiana Purchase World’s Fair; however, it went inexplicably missing during transit. Page continued to contribute to the betterment of his community, such as through agricultural pursuits and fostering African American entrepreneurship and homeownership.

About Paul Leo Ortego

Paul Leo Ortego, of Alexandria, was inspired by his service as a World War I pilot to create the first functional helicopter in 1922. The machine could fly both vertically and horizontally, and Ortego received his U.S. patent for helicopter design in 1926. Some design features are still used in modern aviation. Ortego’s career led to other aviation-related endeavors, such as designing and testing aircraft and designing a flying car.


Alexandria Fire Department responds to structure fire on 14th Street

At approximately 3:30am on Thursday, Sept. 18, the Alexandria Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 205 14th Street. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a two-story abandoned residential structure with heavy smoke and flames visible from every window on the second floor.
 
Responding resources included three pumpers, one aerial truck, a medic car, two chief units, a rehab van, and a fire investigator. Crews successfully brought the fire under control within forty-five minutes of arrival.
 
No injuries or casualties were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

North Louisiana PBM giant Liviniti wins $390 million state contract in major business victory

Natchitoches-based company selected to manage pharmacy benefits for Louisiana state employees, showcasing the strength of Louisiana’s healthcare innovation sector

In a significant win for North Louisiana’s business community, Liviniti, the innovative pharmacy benefit management company headquartered in Natchitoches, has secured a substantial $390 million contract with the state of Louisiana. The Louisiana Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget approved the emergency contract this week, positioning Liviniti to manage pharmacy benefits for the state’s commercial employee health plan.

The contract represents a major milestone for the company that has been pioneering transparent pharmacy benefit management since its founding in 2011 as Southern Scripts. Liviniti’s selection from a competitive field demonstrates both the company’s operational excellence and Louisiana’s growing reputation as a hub for healthcare innovation.

A Homegrown Success Story

Liviniti’s journey from a regional startup to a state contractor exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Louisiana’s business landscape. Co-founded by CEO LeAnn Boyd and Executive Vice President Steven T. Boyd, PharmD, the company was built on principles of transparency, affordability, and quality service, consistently challenging traditional industry practices while building a reputation for delivering measurable value to clients.

Steven T. Boyd brings two decades of experience as a clinical pharmacist across academia, independent pharmacy, and managed care. He was recognized with the 2024 Gold Globee® Disruptive Entrepreneur Award for his efforts to make prescription drugs more affordable and accessible, and was named Louisiana Pharmacy Association’s 2006 Distinguished Young Pharmacist of the Year and 2011 Pharmacist of the Year.

LeAnn Boyd founded the company in 2011, recognizing an opportunity to create a new kind of PBM built on complete transparency. Her contributions have been recognized throughout the healthcare industry with a Modern Healthcare Women Leader Award (2024), an MM+M Pinnacle Award (2024), and selection for the Inc. 2025 Female Founders 500, recognizing the most dynamic women entrepreneurs in America.

The Natchitoches-based firm has built its success on what it calls a “completely transparent, pass-through PBM pricing model,” ensuring clients receive full rebate transparency and access to claims systems. This innovative approach has gained national attention and positioned Louisiana as a leader in healthcare benefit management reform.

Economic Impact for North Louisiana

The $390 million contract brings significant economic opportunities to the North Louisiana region. As Liviniti manages pharmacy benefits for thousands of state and local government employees, the company will likely expand its workforce and operations, creating additional high-skilled jobs in the Natchitoches area.

The contract also demonstrates the state’s confidence in homegrown businesses, keeping substantial healthcare dollars within Louisiana’s economy rather than flowing to out-of-state corporations. This “Louisiana First” approach strengthens the state’s business ecosystem and showcases the quality of services available from in-state providers.

Innovation Meets Public Service

Liviniti’s selection highlights the company’s technological capabilities and commitment to innovation. The firm recently achieved HITRUST certification for information security and has been recognized with technology awards for its data visualization and business intelligence capabilities.

The company’s cloud-based data warehouse provides real-time analytics and reporting, offering unprecedented visibility into drug spending, utilization trends, and cost-saving opportunities. This level of technological sophistication ensures Louisiana state employees will benefit from cutting-edge pharmacy benefit management.

Commitment to Quality Service

Unlike many large PBM companies that rely on automated systems and overseas call centers, Liviniti has built its reputation on high-touch, personal service. The company’s U.S.-based customer service team operates 24/7/365, ensuring state employees receive prompt, knowledgeable support when they need it most.

This service-first approach, combined with the company’s transparent pricing model, addresses many of the concerns that have historically plagued the PBM industry. Louisiana’s selection of Liviniti signals a preference for accountability and transparency in healthcare benefit management.

Looking Forward

As Liviniti prepares to implement services for Louisiana state employees, the contract positions the company for continued growth and expansion. The state contract serves as a powerful reference for other potential clients, demonstrating Liviniti’s ability to manage large-scale, complex pharmacy benefit programs.

For Louisiana, the partnership represents more than just a business transaction—it’s an investment in the state’s healthcare infrastructure and a vote of confidence in Louisiana-based innovation. As healthcare costs continue to challenge employers nationwide, Liviniti’s transparent approach offers a promising model for sustainable, cost-effective pharmacy benefit management.

The success of this North Louisiana company on the state stage reinforces Louisiana’s position as an attractive destination for healthcare innovation and demonstrates the quality of business talent developing throughout the state. From Natchitoches to Baton Rouge, Louisiana continues to prove that homegrown companies can compete and win against national competitors through innovation, service excellence, and commitment to transparency.


Liviniti’s $390 million contract with Louisiana represents one of the largest business wins for a North Louisiana company in recent years, highlighting the region’s growing prominence in the healthcare services sector.

411 Bienville St
Natchitoches, LA 71457
Phone: (318) 214-4764
Email: solutions@liviniti.com

Courtesy of the North Louisiana Business Journal


LDWF opens registration for the Beginner Squirrel Hunt on Dewey Wills WMA

Eastern gray squirrel, a common squirrel species in Louisiana.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced that registration is now open for it’s first-ever Introduction to Squirrel Hunting Workshop this Nov. 7-8 at Dewey Wills Wildlife Management Area (WMA). This event is designed to introduce novice hunters to small game hunting on Louisiana’s WMAs. Participants will be paired with LDWF staff to learn safe, ethical and effective hunting practices. This two-day, overnight event combines classroom learning, firearm safety, field experience and opportunities to hunt with an instructor on Dewey Wills WMA. Registration will close on Oct. 20.

A novice hunter is an individual with limited or no previous experience in hunting, who is still learning essential skills such as identifying game, using firearms safely, navigating terrain and understanding hunting regulations and ethics.

To qualify for this workshop, applicants must be 18 years of age or older by the date of the hunt and must be hunter education certified or exempt from hunter education. A maximum of 8 applicants will be accepted for this hunt. Registration closes on Oct. 20, and selected participants will be notified by email and phone by Oct. 24.

Selected applicants will be required to have a valid Basic Hunting License  and a WMA Access Permit (the WMA Access Permit can be purchased separately but is also included in the  Lifetime License, Louisiana Sportsman Paradise License, or Senior Hunting and Fishing License).

The selected hunters will need to wear a hunter orange cap and bring a shotgun or .22 LR rifle (these can be provided by LDWF if necessary).

Interested participants can apply for the Introductory Squirrel Hunting Workshop at: Introductory Squirrel Hunt Application. For more information, please email Travis Dufour, Hunter Education Program Manager at tdufour@wlf.la.gov.


Eye-opening wins for five local squads in Week 3 games

Holy Savior Menard players hold the coveted Bishop’s Bowl trophy postgame for the first time Friday night after winning a defensive slugfest with St. Mary’s. (Journal photo by KEVIN SHANNAHAN)

By LORI LYONS, Journal Sports

Alexandria Senior High took a long trip and came back with a big win, Tioga blew out rival Pineville, Buckeye improved to 3-0 for the first time in a long time, Holy Savior Menard finally has the Bishop Bowl trophy in its possession and Northwood-Lena scratched out its first win to highlight Week 3 for parish high school football teams.

In a battle of Class 5A top 10 powerhouses, No. 7 Alexandria made the trip to ninth-ranked Destrehan and came away with a 27-21 win to move to 3-0. It was the second year in a row the Trojans knocked off Destrehan. Last year’s 45-27 victory ended a 13-game win streak by the Wildcats, who reached the Non-Select Division I state semifinals while the Trojans played for the Select Division I state championship.

ASH won this year’s game with big plays, by capitalizing on Wildcat miscues and behind Kason Williams’ four touchdowns.

After the Wildcats took an early 7-0 lead, the Wildcats helped the Trojans to a tie with a slew of penalties that added up to 30 yards. Williams scored his first touchdown on a 1-yard run early in the second quarter.

Early in the third quarter the Trojans blocked a Destrehan field goal attempt and Kerrick Gaines took it back inside the Wildcats’ 5 and Williams ran in for his second score.

Williams ran for one more touchdown before hauling in a 50-yard pass from Karson Sellers to make it 27-14.

Destrehan staged a late rally to make it 27-21 and had one final possession with 20 seconds remaining, but time expired before the Wildcats could convert.

 

Tioga tears up Pineville’s perfect record

First-year Tioga head coach Dan Christman was pretty excited about his team’s 56-14 victory at Pineville. The Indians (2-1) broke open a close game by scoring 42 unanswered points. It was the first loss for the Rebels this season.

“It’s a rivalry game and the kids came out, we were a little too amped up, especially early on,” Christman said. “Once we got settled into the game it turned our way pretty good. It’s always emotional when you play a cross-town rival.”

Quarterback Cace Malone passed for more than 200 yards and three touchdowns plus he ran for a score. Wide receiver Kervin Johnson caught two touchdown passes and Jeremiah Hunter caught another. Kenny Ponthier scored on a 34-yard run and a 51-yard run. Kohen Henry scored on a 74-yard return of a fumbled snap on a Pineville field goal attempt.  

Pineville’s Kelmarion Phillips scored on a 66-yard run and a 73-yard run.

Beginning to look worthy of attention in the state top 10 poll, Tioga blew out Leesville a week earlier and had a competitive opening loss to state power Sterlington.

 

Thriller moves Buckeye to best start in a decade

Buckeye running back Preston Willis rushed for 297 yards and two touchdowns on 31 carries to help the Panthers rally for a 27-26 victory over South Beauregard Thursday night. Willis scored the tying touchdown from 30 yards out with 1:47 remaining, then booted the decisive extra point.

Key players on defense were linebackers Ty Curtis and Gage Belgard and defensive back Brayden Paulk.

Buckeye is 3-0 for the first time since 2014.

 

Trophy time for Eagles, finally

Holy Savior Menard (2-1) won a squeaker Friday night taking a 7-6 victory over St. Mary’s and taking home the Bishop’s Trophy for the first time in the 5-year Bishop Bowl series.

Matthew Hicks scored the lone Menard touchdown and had an interception in the second half.

“You don’t see a lot of defensive battles, but this was definitely a defensive battle,” Eagles coach David Perkins said. “It was almost like from my era in the ‘70s. It was a great game.”

 

Northwood breaks through, Peabody overwhelmed on the road again

Northwood-Lena got its first win of the season, putting down Pickering 14-6. After opening with an impressive homefield rout of LaGrange, for a second straight week Peabody (1-2) went on the road and was blown out, falling at Fontainebleau 36-6.

Bolton forfeited its scheduled game at Lake Arthur.

Contact Lori at sportslyons@gmail.com


Eighth-ranked Hardin-Simmons too much for visiting LCU

Sophomore Omarius Davis caught two touchdown passes for LCU Saturday at Hardin-Simmons. (Photo by JACOB SIMONET, Louisiana Christian Athletics)

By RICHARD THIBERVILLE JR., Louisiana Christian Sports Information Director

ABILENE, Texas – The Louisiana Christian University football team got two touchdown throws from quarterback Bryce Perkins, but a series of quick strikes in the second and fourth quarters proved to be LCU’s undoing in a 52-17 loss to the Hardin-Simmons Cowboys Saturday afternoon at Shelton Stadium.

The Wildcats’ (2-2, 2-0 SAC) two-game win streak ended with the loss to Hardin-Simmons (3-0, 0-0 ASC), the No. 8-ranked team in the most recent D3Football.com Top 25 poll.

LCU struck first, capping a 16-play, 76-yard drive which ate up 6:08 off the first quarter clock and got down to the Hardin-Simmons two-yard line before stalling and settling for a Levi Hilborn 21-yard field goal.

But momentum quickly swung against the Wildcats after a Cowboy punt was downed at the 1-yard line. With LCU unable to get away from its own goal line, a fourth-down punt resulted in a safety.

After receiving the free kick, it took HSU just four plays to take the lead on  30-yard touchdown strike and a converted two-point attempt made it 10-3. In the second quarter the Cowboys struck on an 18-yard scoring gallop and extended the lead to 17-3.

On LCU’s ensuing possession, the Wildcats decided to gamble on fourth and four from their own 27, but the ball was mishandled, giving the Cowboys the ball at the Wildcat seven. HSU quickly capitalized on the short field, scoring on the first play.

The Wildcats answered when as Perkins found Omarius Davis from 30 yards out for the score, pulling LCU back within 24-10 at the end of a six-play, 63-yard drive which lasted just 2:13.

Hardin-Simmons connected on a 53-yard scoring pass with just over a minute before the break to extend its lead back out to 21 points at 31-10.

LCU came out of intermission looking stronger than it did going in and got the only score of the third quarter. Perkins capped a 17-play, 90-yard drive by again finding Davis on a 3-yard scoring pass to close within 31-17 with 4:30 left in the period after the 6:18-long scoring march.

The Wildcats brought momentum and possession of the ball deep in Cowboy territory into the fourth quarter as LCU looked to make it a one-score game. LCU got as close as the HSU six-yard line but HSU blocked a field goal, a maintaining the 14-point lead.

From there on, Hardin-Simmons scored three touchdowns in the fourth to pull away for the eventual 52-17 final score.

Perkins ended the day 22-of-41 with 216 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also ran six times for 36 more yards. His favorite target was Davis, who caught eight passes for 120 yards and two scores.

Datlan Cunningham led the LCU ground attack with 84 yards on 27 carries. The Wildcats rushed for 142 total yards.

The Wildcats remain on the road, returning to Sooner Athletic Conference play, heading to Oklahoma Panhandle State.


Fatal crash on Curtis Coleman Bridge

The Alexandria Police Department responded to the Curtis Coleman Bridge in reference to a crash involving a vehicle and a motorcycle on Thursday, Sept. 18, at approximately 4:20pm.  The motorcycle was driven by 34-year-old  Kerry Janet.  Janet was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

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. Information can be emailed 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 www.p3tips.com/community/mobile.


RPSO investigating an in-custody death of female inmate

Deputies at the Rapides Parish Detention Center-1 Downtown discovered a female inmate, identified as Anquinetta Johnson Owens, 42, unresponsive and not breathing on Friday, Sept. 19, approximately 3:20pm. Deputies and RPSO Medical Staff immediately began rendering lifesaving measures, including CPR and the administering of an AED.
 
Pafford EMS-Cenla arrived and life saving measures continued which resulted in Owens regaining a pulse.
Owens was then transported to a local hospital but despite all the life-saving measures attempted, Owens was pronounced deceased a short time later.
 
Corrections Security Investigators and Crime Scene Unit responded to conduct their investigation. At this time in their investigation, investigators have no evidence any foul play was involved.
 
Investigators say their investigation is still ongoing as they await routine autopsy and toxicology results to determine cause of death.
 
Owens was arrested on Tuesday, Sept. 16, for one count of Simple Burglary.

Alexandria man charged with second degree murder; Pineville suspect faces 25 charges in theft, vehicle chase

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

 

Sept. 21

Freddie Johnson, 39, Minden – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Pamela Gale Jordan, 63, Alexandria – three counts contempt of court, $50,500 bail;

Charles G. Price, 47, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, running a stop sign, driving under suspension, two counts contempt of court, $5,300 bail;

 

Sept. 20

Ronda K. Arnaud, 70, Eunice – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,100 bail;

Kendrick Clint Bayone Jr., 28, Ball – contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Warren Donelle Godfrey, 51, Pineville – OW first offense, headlamps required, Louisiana fugitive, $1,100 bail;

Sheena R. White, 41, Pineville – OWI first offense, careless operation of a vehicle, $1,100 bail;

 

Sept. 19

Naomi Lou Barron, 48, Pineville – simple battery, resisting an officer, Louisiana fugitive, two counts contempt of court, $16,000 bail;

Michael Bolen, 34, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Timothy James Coutee, 44, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, bicycle lamps required, $100 bail;

Brody Neil Dauzart, 28, Pineville – battery of a pregnant dating partner, criminal damage to property, $500 bail;

Erin Finley, 25, N/A – simple burglary, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, disturbing the peace, $12,000 bail;

Charles Curtis Mullins Sr., 41, Alexandria – OWI third offense, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, running a stop sign, no driver’s license, $100,700 bail;

Joseph Clay Nugent, 54, Pineville – Louisiana fugitive, hit and run, 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, $6,300 bail;

Zachary Jason Seals Sr., 39, Dry Prong – criminal conspiracy, simple burglary, unauthorized entry into an inhabited dwelling, criminal damage to property, intentional littering, obstruction of justice, possession of CDS, Louisiana fugitive, $32,000 bail;

Audrell Smothers, 42, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, criminal trespass, three counts contempt of court, $33,500 bail;

Chelsea Marie Thompson, 32, Alexandria – six counts contempt of court, $38,000 bail;

Arielle Rikon Washington, 26, Alexandria – possession of CDS, simple battery, paraphernalia, $3,500 bail;

Kyvone T. White, 20, Many – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

 

Sept. 18

Thomas Edward Baker Jr., 49, Pineville – two counts contempt of court, failure to appear, probation violation, $26,000 bail;

Caroline A. Ballio, 47, Boyce – two counts contempt of court, $50,000 bail;

Anais Yvonne Brown, 28, Simmesport – three counts aggravated kidnapping, home invasion, illegal use of weapons, possession of firearm by convicted felon, Louisiana fugitive, $900,000 bail;

Christopher Tyrone Bryant, 33, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, headlamps required, improper window tint, safety belt violation, expired MVI sticker, no driver’s license, obstruction of justice, $7,000 bail;

Jarvis Keon Daggs, 37, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, no bail data;

Tycarius Jerome Davis, 29, Pineville – possession of fentanyl, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, three counts contempt of court, probation violation, bicycle reflectors, $17,100 bail;

Donna Gail Dubroc, 55, Deville – simple burglary, theft, $5,500 bail;

Jacobe Lee Jackson, 23, Houma – taking contraband to and from penal institutions, possession of CDS, $7,500 bail;

Dalton Ray Rachal, 31, Pineville – resisting an officer, probation violation, five counts contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Austin Lee Robinson, 30, Pitkin – hit and run driving, stalking, two counts aggravated domestic assault, unlawful communication, aggravated criminal damage, parole violations, $66,000 bail;

Christopher Ryan, 18, Alexandria – violation of protective orders, cyberstalking, $5,000 bail;

Martavious D. Stafford, 32, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing fentanyl with intent, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, $35,500 bail;

Leland Vaughn, 42, Pineville – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, failure to appear, $3,500 bail;

 

Sept. 17

Courtney Marie Carter, 34, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, possession of CDS, two counts contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Donnell Clarkson, 34, Shreveport – aggravated battery of ER, EMS or healthcare professional, $5,000 bail;

Anthony Ford, 23, Elmer – aggravated assault on a peace officer, aggravated resisting a police officer with force or violence, two counts disarming a police officer, $15,000 bail;

Quantavius D’Shaun Frazier, 31, Alexandria – obstruction of justice, resisting an officer, obstructing public passages, $2,000 bail;

Jerome Devon Hobbs, 41, Alexandria – possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, simple battery, theft, criminal trespass, simple escape, five counts contempt of court, $145,000 bail;

Reagan Jaime Huff, 30, Deville – theft, two counts monetary instrument abuse, three counts contempt of court, $19,500 bail;

Gage Michael Kittinger, 27, Pineville – two counts theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage to property, criminal conspiracy, criminal trespass, no motorcycle endorsement, two counts theft, Louisiana fugitive, tail lamps red light, running a stop sign, intentional littering, no safety helmet, no driver’s license, flight from an officer, possession of stolen vehicle, possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of CDS, aggravated obstruction of highway, reckless operation of vehicle, resisting an officer, illegal carry firearm with drugs, parole violations, two counts flight from an officer, $61,500 bail;

William Maddox, 22, Pineville – illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, Louisiana fugitive, $22,500 bail;

Jimmie Rax Jr., 46, Alexandria – OWI first offense, two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, improper lane usage, unsafe vehicle, driving under suspension, 10 counts contempt of court, $115,300 bail;

Kelvin Simon, 33, Alexandria – sex offender failure to renew registration, possession of firearm by convicted felon, flight from officer, contempt of court, $40,000 bail;

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

Amber H. Williams, 34, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, possession of fentanyl, theft, 12 counts contempt of court, $39,500 bail;

Desmon Marquis Williams, 29, Alexandria – three counts burglary of an inhabited dwelling, resising an officer, unauthorized entry into inhabited dwelling, parole violations, $100,500 bail.


Boil advisories lifted for Parliament Drive, Chase Drive

A boil advisory issued Tuesday, Sept. 16, and one Wednesday, Sept. 17, for Parliament Dr./Chase Dr. area has been lifted. Repair of a main made by COA personnel resulted in the need for a boil water advisory. The State of Louisiana has tested the water, and the results of the tests are clear, according to Superintendent of Water Operations, Barrett Dezendorf.

The Alexandria Water Department has lifted the boil advisory for businesses and residents located along Parliament Dr. and Chase Dr. 

With the lifting of the boil advisory, the City of Alexandria now recommends that businesses and residences in the affected areas:

  • Run cold-water faucets for one minute;
  • Run drinking water fountains for one minute;
  • Flush automatic icemakers (make three batches of ice and discard);
  • Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle; and
  • Run water coolers with direct water connections for five minutes.

Welcome, Carman Choate!

BOM Bank is pleased to welcome Carman Choate to the BOM family! Carman will be joining our Coliseum branch as a teller.
 
Carman has been in frontline banking for many years and enjoys helping people and building meaningful relationships with customers. Originally from Louisiana, her journeys have taken her across the country, from Connecticut to Colorado, Washington State, and Virginia, before bringing her back home. Since returning, she has embraced the quiet rural lifestyle, learning to take care of her blueberry plants and growing her collection of houseplants. Carman stated, “I am proud to be a part of the BOM Bank team and excited to continue serving my community!”

Notice of Death – September 21, 2025

Betty Jo Vaughn Kinder
April 17, 1941 – September 20, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 10am at Alexandria Memorial Gardens, Woodworth.

Sandra B. Kees
November 17, 1950 – September 19, 2025
Service: Monday, September 22, 2025, 2pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Steve Pennington, III
May 25, 1963 – September 19, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

James Weston Massey, Sr.
May 14, 1929 – September 16, 2025
Service: Tuesday, September 23, 2025, 11am at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

Mary “Fran” Peel
September 25, 1951 – September 16, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Catherine Ann Burgess
July 22, 1943 – September 15, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 10am at Second Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

Joyce Ann Richardson Sasser
January 26, 1934 – September 15, 2025
Service: Monday, September 22, 2025, 11am at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. 

Alison Brooke “Alley” Dasko
February 27, 1981 – September 14, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Alexandria.

Superintendent James R. Roland
December 22, 1950 – September 14, 2025
Service: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11am at raise Trinity Christian Ministries Church of God in Christ, Alexandria. 

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

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