The Town Talk

1 week ago | thetowntalk.com | Melissa Gregory

A new tool will let Rapides Parish residents point out what they believe are transportation issues that need attention or development. The Rapides Area Planning Commission has announced its Map It tool, "a new, interactive web platform that empowers the public a voice in identifying transportation issues and opportunities across the region," reads a news release.

1 week ago | thetowntalk.com | Melinda Martinez

Tioga High School graduate Gracymay Byrd simultaneously earned her associate degree through dual enrollment at LSU of Alexandria. Byrd encourages other students to consider dual enrollment to earn college credit while still in high school. Dual enrollment allowed Byrd to complete high school courses early and focus on college coursework, balancing academics with extracurricular activities and a part-time job.

1 week ago | thetowntalk.com | Gavino Borquez

Expectations are high for Omarion Hampton heading into his rookie season. The former North Carolina product was the second running back selected behind Ashton Jeanty, who was taken by the Raiders with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft. While Jeanty was the top back in this year's class, some believe Hampton will have a more productive season in Year 1, including ESPN's Benjamin Solak, who is predicting Hampton to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.

1 week ago | thetowntalk.com | Melissa Gregory

As summer gets underway, children 18 and under still can get free breakfasts and lunches at multiple sites throughout Rapides Parish. Feeding begins on June 2 at all sites. Here are the sites, and the dates and times open:Alexandria Senior High School: Monday-Friday, 7:30-8:30 a.m. for breakfast, 11 a.m.-noon for lunch. Ends June 27. J.I. Barron Elementary School: Monday-Thursday, 7-8 a.m. for breakfast, 11 a.m.-noon for lunch. Ends June 26.

1 week ago | thetowntalk.com | Melinda Martinez

Melinda MartinezOn Saturday, May 24, 2025 community members placed flags on 9,055 graves at the Alexandria National Cemetery in Pineville for Memorial Day. Due to predicted bad weather, the annual Memorial Day program has been moved from the cemetery to the Alexandria VA Auditorium, 2495 Shreveport Highway in Pineville. Melinda Martinez/The Town TalkOn Saturday, May 24, 2025 community members placed flags on 9,055 graves at the Alexandria National Cemetery in Pineville for Memorial Day.