TOP LOCAL HEADLINES

LSUA Hosts Governor John Bel Edwards for the Drainage & Infrastructure Project Groundbreaking

The following has been released to Q93 from LSUA: 

 

 

ALEXANDRIA, La – Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) Hosted Gov. John Bel Edwards today for a groundbreaking for the Drainage and Infrastructure Project on the LSUA campus.

 

After more than 10 years of working to secure federal and state funding for the project, the Governor and numerous other elected officials convened at LSUA to commemorate the historic achievement.

 

“We believe in higher education in Louisiana. I’m proud that we have been able to work together to provide solutions and support for our students in Central Louisiana.  LSUA has seen tremendous growth recently, and it is my honor to be here today to celebrate this extraordinary event,” said Governor Edwards.

 

At the state level, $2.7 million was allocated from the State Bond Commission Capital Outlay. Federal Flood Mitigation funding, made available through the Louisiana Watershed Initiative, provided an additional $3.5 million for the project.

 

“The Drainage & Infrastructure Project Groundbreaking was a significant event for LSUA. The bipartisan support we received from local, state, and federal officials ensured that this was not only a win for Central Louisiana, but for the State of Louisiana. We appreciate the support we received from all delegations and were extremely grateful to have Governor John Bel Edwards join us to break ground on the campus. This project will solve numerous drainage problems at LSUA, but will also modernize the infrastructure and campus as a whole. Our students will greatly benefit from this support,” said Dr. Paul Coreil, LSUA Chancellor.

 

Infrastructure improvements consists of, but not limited to, enhancements to the main campus entrance on Highway 71, major drainage issues, street overlays and new lighting.

 

Womack and Sons Construction Group received the bid for the project and began on site in early June.

Cleco Customers Should Prepare for Potentially Active Hurricane Season

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:
 

PINEVILLE, La. – June 1, 2021 – The Atlantic Basin Hurricane Season officially begins today, June 1, and runs through Nov. 30.  Cleco Power encourages customers to prepare as experts are predicting another above-average hurricane season.  

 

“Today marks the start of our hurricane season, and while we all are hoping for a quiet season, everyone should have a plan,” said James Lass, director of distribution operations and emergency management.  “The winds from hurricanes can severely damage electrical equipment especially poles and power lines, resulting in extended power outages.”

Researchers at Colorado State University (CSU) are predicting 17 named storms during the season.  Of those, they expect eight to become hurricanes and four to become major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) with sustained winds of 111 miles per hour or greater.  CSU has issued forecasts of hurricane activity in the Atlantic Basin for over 36 years.  

CSU researchers predicted 2020 would be an above-average season, and it was.  Last year, Cleco Power’s service area was hit by three hurricanes, Laura, Delta and Zeta, in just two months.  

“Some areas are still recovering from the 2020 hurricane season,” said Lass.  “In Louisiana, we know from experience that hurricanes can cause loss of property and life, so we have to take each storm seriously and prepare in advance.  Preparation can help customers stay safe this hurricane season.”

Below are steps customers can take to prepare for the 2021hurricane season: 

• Prepare a storm kit – gather supplies you might need during a power outage, including flashlights, batteries, canned food, manual can opener, bottled water, medication and a first aid kit.

• Develop an evacuation plan in case you have to evacuate.

• Have a battery-powered radio to receive updates from the media.

• Review your insurance policies.

• Take pictures or video of the inside and outside areas of your home or business for potential insurance needs.

• Plan ahead for medical or special needs, includingyour pets. 

• Make provisions for a generator, if needed, and test the generator to ensure it works.

 

More storm preparedness tips can be found online at cleco.com and on Facebook @ClecoPower.

City of Alexandria Awarded $11.9 Million for Drainage Projects

The following has been released to Q93 from the Ciry of Alexandria: 

 

Alexandria, La. (May 27, 2021) — The City of Alexandria has been awarded $11.9 million by the Louisiana Watershed Initiative to fund two local drainage projects.

 

“We are very pleased and grateful to the Louisiana Watershed Initiative for making these two critically needed awards to Alexandria,” said Alexandria Mayor Jeffrey W. Hall. “Drainage and flooding is a significant concern to the residents of Alexandria, and we know we don’t have the resources available locally to do what needs to be done to truly fix the problem. The people of Alexandria really deserve this support, and we are so grateful to everyone who made this possible – including engineers, contractors, consultants, our employees and our state and federal delegation officials.”

 

The Louisiana Watershed Initiative announced 16 awards totaling $60 million as part of its first round of projects. The two Alexandria projects selected are the Chatlin Lake Canal Backwater Overflow Relief Structure, a $10 million project to divert water from the Chatlin Lake Canal directly to the Red River, and Horseshoe Canal Hardening, a $1.9 million project that involves construction of about 290 linear feet of reinforced concrete box culvert at Horseshoe Canal across U.S. Hwy. 165/South Masonic Drive.

 

“Creating the Chatlin Lake Canal Backwater Overflow Relief Structure to divert water from the canal directly to the Red River will be a real game changer, not just for Alexandria, but for southern Rapides Parish, Avoyelles Parish and all of central Louisiana,” Hall said.

State Fair of Louisiana 2021 (Spring Edition) Event Highlights for Opening Week

The following has been released to Q93 from the State Fair of Louisiana: 

 

SHREVEPORT, La. – The State Fair of Louisiana is making history with the 114th State Fair- Spring Edition that is about to take place at the Louisiana State Fairgrounds in Shreveport.  Opening day is this Thursday, April 29th and it will run eleven straight days through May 9th.  The hours of operation will be 12pm to 10pm on weekdays and 10am -10pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Ticket Prices:
Gate Admission - $12.00
P.O.P. - $47.00 *Gate admission + carnival armband
FunPass - $100.00 *Gate admission + carnival armband all 11 days of the State Fair
 
Advance Discounted Tickets (THRU WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28TH) at statefairoflouisiana.com!
Gate Admission - $8.00
P.O.P. - $35.00 *Gate admission + carnival armband
FunPass - $100.00 *Gate admission + carnival armband all 11 days of the State Fair
 
Special Promotions 
Free Fair Days: Free parking/gate admission, 12noon – 3pm (Weekdays)
Discount Days: Mondays - Thursdays
Gate Admission - $5.00 *After 3pm
P.O.P. - $30.00 *Gate admission + carnival armband
Carnival Armbands - $25.00 *12noon til close

Concerts:
Scheduled this week on the Whataburger Stage are:
Thursday, April 29th, Anxious will open the Fair and play at 6:00pm, 7:00pm, and 8:00pm.  
Friday, April 30th, Nashville South performs at 6:00pm, 7:00pm, and 8:00pm.
Saturday, May 1, Frank Foster will take the stage starting at 7:30pm. Opening for Frank will be   The Casey Martin Band taking the stage at 6:00pm.  
Sunday is Fiesta at the Fair from 12:00pm – 10:00pm.

State Fair of Louisiana Livestock Spring Show
The State Fair of Louisiana will host a Spring Youth Cattle Livestock Show April 29 - May 2, 2021.
 
The show will be open to participates from any state. The age of the exhibitors will be from 0 to 21 years of age. Categories of animals shown will be Dairy, Breeding Beef, Commercial Heifers, Minis, & Steer!  
 
11th Annual Louisiana State Fair Car Show  
Sunday, May 2nd, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
“Cinco de Mayo Edition”
 
Attractions 
Attractions are free with your State Fair Gate Admission and will perform several shows per day. This year’s attractions are as follows:   
      Nerveless Nocks Thrill Show 
      The Pirate’s Parrot Show
      GASCAR Crazy Animal Races
      Paul Bunyan’s Lumberjack Show
      Laura Jaye Aerial Show
      Dallas The Fire Guy
      Nick the Escape Artist
      Flo, The Clown of Many Faces
      Rock-It Robot
     
Special Attraction
Timberview Helicopter Rides will offer helicopter rides above the midway of the Spring State Fair.  Price per rider is $20.00.
 
COVID-19 SAFETY GUIDELINES 
YOUR SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY 
In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the State Fair of Louisiana is taking extra precautions to assure the health and safety of our employees and guests. It is our mission to keep guests and staff safe while also continuing to make your visit a memorable experience. 
Not Feeling Well? 
Please self-check for COVID-19 symptoms before you visit the State Fair. If you or any member of your family is not feeling well, please do not visit.
Hand Sanitizer Stations 
There will be hand sanitization stations throughout the Fairgrounds. We highly recommend the use of hand sanitization stations as well as washing your hands frequently.
Admission Ticketing 
The State Fair of Louisiana will be implementing a new ticketing system with our partners at Saffire to speed up the admission process and limit contact. Although tickets will be available for purchase at our Entrance Gates, we strongly advise purchasing your tickets prior to arrival at the State Fair online at www.statefairoflouisiana.com.
Face Coverings 
Face coverings/masks are to be worn in all indoor spaces and outdoor spaces when not consuming food and drinks. Face coverings are required unless impairment to an existing health condition. All employees and vendors will also be required to wear a face covering to participate in the State Fair. All guests over 7 years of age are required to wear a face covering/mask.
Social Distancing 
Follow social distancing guidelines carefully, maintaining at least 6 feet of space from others. This will apply throughout the State Fair, including lines, in exhibits, at food and beverage facilities, in show venues, and in restrooms.
Food/Beverage 
All food/beverage should be consumed in designated areas or seated at picnic tables provided by the State Fair so that face coverings may consistently be worn throughout all other areas of the State Fair.
Beer Gardens 
Any alcohol sold and consumed shall be limited to a single area, or Beer Garden, that will be clearly marked. The seating area for alcohol consumption shall also be limited to the Beer Garden area.
The State Fair of Louisiana appreciates your understanding and cooperation with the COVID-19 Safety Guidelines issued by the State of Louisiana!

Visit our website:
Go to www.statefairoflouisiana.com for more details on concerts, event schedules, free attractions, and discounted ticket information.

City of Alexandria Updates COVID Policies

The following has been released to Q93 from the City of Alexandria:


 

Alexandria, La. (April 28, 2021) — The City of Alexandria continues to follow the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), state health officials and Gov. John Bel Edwards regarding measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

 

“Yesterday the Governor announced that he is easing restrictions regarding the statewide mask mandate,” Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall said. “We never issued a mask mandate for the City of Alexandria. We have, however, followed the Governor’s and health official’s guidelines and complied with the statewide mandate. In his latest order, the Governor is leaving it up to local municipalities to decide if they want to adopt or continue mask policies. I see no reason at this time to implement a local mask mandate for Alexandria. We will continue to recommend that at-risk individuals wear face masks and take the appropriate health precautions. And local businesses have the option of requiring masks for their patrons, but there is not a citywide mask mandate for Alexandria.”

 

The most recent guidance from the CDC indicates fully vaccinated individuals who have received both doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine do not need to wear masks outdoors unless they are in a large crowd of strangers. The new guidance also significantly eases mask recommendations for indoor interaction involving other fully vaccinated individuals.

 

Based on the CDC’s outdoor guidance, the Alexandria Zoo will no longer require face masks for guests while they are not inside buildings. Face masks will continue to be required indoors for people entering city facilities, including City Hall, the Utility Customer Service Building and city-operated community centers. Per Gov. Edward’s statewide order, ATRANS passengers are also required to wear a face mask.

 

“We are pleased with the progress we have seen in terms of people getting vaccinated and the reduction in the local number of cases,” Hall said. “COVID-19 still presents a danger, so we must continue to take some precautions, and I encourage everyone to get vaccinated.”

Cleco Donates $10,000 to American Red Cross in Louisiana to Assist with Disaster Relief

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:


 

PINEVILLE, La. – April 26, 2021 – Today, Cleco made a $10,000 donation to the American Red Cross to assist Louisianans when disasters strike.  

“During the past year, Louisiana has been hit hard by hurricanes, tornadoes and ice storms that caused significant damage and, in some instances, destroyed homes and businesses requiring many residents to repair and rebuild,” said Shane Hilton, president of Cleco Power.  “Our emergency response teams are usually first on the scene after severe weather, so Cleco sees firsthand how necessary it is to support organizations like the Red Cross who have a long history of providing assistance when disasters strike.”

The Red Cross relies on donations and community partners to provide free emergency assistance, disaster relief and disaster preparedness education throughout the United States.


“We are grateful to Cleco for this generous donation,” said Karen McCoy, executive director for the North Louisiana Chapter of the American Red Cross. “These funds will go a long way in ensuring we are able to support communities of central Louisiana in preparing for, responding to and recovering from disasters large and small.”

Cleco Donates 100K for New LSUA Student Success Center

The following has been released to Q93 from LSUA: 

 

 

ALEXANDRIA, La – Cleco Corporate Holdings President and Chief Executive Officer, Bill Fontenot, presented a $100,000 check to Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) Chancellor Dr. Paul Coreil this morning on the LSUA campus.

 

Cleco’s donation is in support of Fierce for LSUA, LSUA’s first ever major capital campaign. The primary focus is on a new LSUA Student Success Center.

 

“Cleco is excited to be a part of the ‘Fierce for LSUA’ capital campaign to build their first-ever Student Success Center,” said Bill Fontenot, president and CEO of Cleco Corporate Holdings.  “This donation is an investment in the communities where we live, work and serve, and Cleco is committed to helping leading institutions like LSUA prepare students to meet current and future workforce needs.”

 

“We cannot thank Cleco and Bill Fontenot enough for their contribution to our Fierce for LSUA capital campaign. All LSUA students will greatly benefit by their generosity,” said Dr. Paul Coreil, LSUA Chancellor. “This new facility will help us increase enrollment and ultimately benefit critical workforce needs of our business community, and the needs of our most important LSUA commodity – Central Louisiana students!”

 

The new Student Success Center will be a state-of-the-art, 30,000 square foot facility that will house services critical for all students – whether on-campus or online. This includes recruitment, admissions, financial aid/scholarships, academic advising, first year experience, and career development.

Cleco Donates 100K for New LSUA Student Success Center

The following has been released to Q93 from LSUA: 

 

 

ALEXANDRIA, La – Cleco Corporate Holdings President and Chief Executive Officer, Bill Fontenot, presented a $100,000 check to Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) Chancellor Dr. Paul Coreil this morning on the LSUA campus.

 

Cleco’s donation is in support of Fierce for LSUA, LSUA’s first ever major capital campaign. The primary focus is on a new LSUA Student Success Center.

 

“Cleco is excited to be a part of the ‘Fierce for LSUA’ capital campaign to build their first-ever Student Success Center,” said Bill Fontenot, president and CEO of Cleco Corporate Holdings.  “This donation is an investment in the communities where we live, work and serve, and Cleco is committed to helping leading institutions like LSUA prepare students to meet current and future workforce needs.”

 

“We cannot thank Cleco and Bill Fontenot enough for their contribution to our Fierce for LSUA capital campaign. All LSUA students will greatly benefit by their generosity,” said Dr. Paul Coreil, LSUA Chancellor. “This new facility will help us increase enrollment and ultimately benefit critical workforce needs of our business community, and the needs of our most important LSUA commodity – Central Louisiana students!”

 

The new Student Success Center will be a state-of-the-art, 30,000 square foot facility that will house services critical for all students – whether on-campus or online. This includes recruitment, admissions, financial aid/scholarships, academic advising, first year experience, and career development.

LSUA Named 2021 Best Online RN to BSN Program in the State

The following has been released to Q93 from LSUA:

 

 

ALEXANDRIA, La – Louisiana State University of Alexandria has been named the 2021 Best Online RN to BSN Program in Louisiana by RegisteredNursing.org.

 

Having received this same ranking in 2020, LSUA’s Department of Nursing remains the dominant program in the state.

 

“LSUA has a longstanding tradition of being one of the best programs in the state, so it is great to have others recognize the level of excellence at our university,” said Dr. Paul Coreil, LSUA Chancellor. “As the pandemic has also increased the use of virtual education, it is important to know that our students can receive the same quality education online or in the classroom.”

 

Per RegisteredNursing.Org, data points used to compile the list include statistics regarding accreditation, types or nursing programs, ratio of program completion, annual tuition and fees, ratio of tenured faculty, graduation rates, etc.

 

For more information on the online RN to BSN program, visit the LSUA webpage by clicking here.

16th Street Boil Advisory Lifted

The following has been released to Q93 from the City of Alexandria: 

 

 

 

Alexandria, La. (March 5, 2021)—The boil advisory issued Wednesday for the 900 block of 16th Street is now lifted.Repairs to a 2-inch service lateral 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 Utility Director Michael Marcotte.

 

The Alexandria Water Department has lifted the boil advisoryfor businesses and residents located in the area described below:

 

All the properties along the 900 block of 16th Street. (Please see attached detail map).

 

With the lifting of the boil advisory, the City of Alexandrianow 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.?

City of Alexandria to Reopen Community Centers, Event Facilities April 5

The following has been released to Q93 from the City of Alexandria: 

 

 

Alexandria, La. (March 4, 2021) — Citing the reduction of COVID-19 cases locally as well as Gov. John Bel Edward’s decision to move to Phase 3 guidelines for public health, the City of Alexandria plans to reopen its community centers and meeting facilities starting Monday, April 5. The centers were originally closed on March 13, 2020, as part of public health efforts designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

 

“We are eager to reopen these facilities as another step in the process of getting back to normal operations,” said Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall. “The Alexandria Zoo will reopen on weekends starting March 12, and our community centers and meeting venues will reopen on April 5. The safety of our employees and guests remains a top priority, so some health guidelines will still be in place, but we believe conditions have improved to the point where we can safely begin to use these facilities.”

 

The centers scheduled to reopen April 5 include:

• Alexandria Convention Hall

• Alexandria Youth & Teen Center

• Bolton Avenue Community Center

• Martin Community Center

• M.L. King Community Center

• Wilborn Dempsey Multi-Purpose Center

 

 

In addition to reopening community centers, City Hall and the Utility Customer Service Office will decrease restrictions regarding visitors. The number of people permitted in the lobby at each site will continue to be limited and residents are asked to schedule appointments in advance to meet with city workers.

 

The Randolph Riverfront Center is open for meetings with attendance limits and safety protocols in place in compliance with the Governor’s mandates and the advice of public health officials. The Coughlin Saunders Performing Arts Center remains closed until further notice. 

 

Face masks will continue to be required at public facilities as well as social distancing and temperature checks. The city will follow State Fire Marshal guidelines regarding the number of people allowed inside each facility.

Boil Advisory Issued for 16th Street

The following has been released to Q93 from the City of Alexandria: 

 

 

Alexandria, La., (March 3, 2021) — Repairs to a 2-inch service lateral in the 900 block of 16th Street have resulted inthe need for a boil water advisory, according to UtilityDirector Michael Marcotte.

 

Because water pressure was lost during the repair process, the water in the affected area may have been compromised.  

 

As a precaution, the Alexandria Water Department is issuinga boil advisory effective immediately. This boil advisory isto remain in effect until otherwise noted.  The boil wateradvisory is issued for customers located in the areadescribed below:

 

All the properties along the 900 block of 16th Street. (Please see attached detail map).

 

 

It is recommended that all consumers in the advisory area disinfect their water before consuming it (including fountain drinks), making ice, brushing teeth or using it for food preparation or rinsing of foods by the following means:

 

Boil water for one full minute in a clean container. The oneminute starts after the water has been brought to a rolling boil.Once the water has been boiled, you may improve the taste of the water by shaking it in a closed container, by pouring it from one clean container to another or by adding a small pinch ofsalt to each quart of water that is boiled.  

 

Consumers in the advisory area should disinfect their waterprior to consumption until otherwise notified.

 

The City of Alexandria will lift the boil advisory after water tests show there is no contamination. At that time businessesand residences in the affected areas should:

 

• Run cold water faucets forone minute;

• Run drinking water fountains for one minute;

• Flush automatic icemakers (make three batches of ice anddiscard);

• Run water softeners through a regeneration cycle; and

• Run water coolers with direct water connections for fiveminutes.

All Middle and High School Students Will Resume Every Day Attendance Schedule No Later Than Friday, March 19th

The following has been released to Q93 from the Rapides Parish School Board: 

 

 

In response to Gov. Edwards' announcement moving our state to Phase 3, all middle and high school students will resume every day attendance schedules no later than Friday, March 19th. As we finalize the logistics for transportation and food service, please follow information from your child's school for when he/she is to return to everyday classes.

 

All students enrolled in our 100% virtual program and making adequate academic progress are allowed to continue in the virtual program.
 
Also, please know that we will continue to follow all prescribed safety precautions to the maximum extent possible. If your child is experiencing any COVID-like symptoms, please keep them home and have them tested.   
 

As we make this shift, let's continue to show the world that Rapides Parish truly is #bettertogether.

Cleco Donates $5,000 to Manna House

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:


PINEVILLE, La. – March 2, 2021 –Today, Cleco Power presented a check for $5,000 to Manna House in Alexandria whose mission is to feed those in need. 

For more than 30 years, Manna House has provided nutritious meals to people of all ages, including homeless individuals and families, children, seniors and veterans no questions asked.  

"There’s nothing more rewarding than helping a place like Manna House feed the hungry in our community, and Cleco is proud to support this cause,” said Robbie LaBorde, chief operations officer of Cleco Corporate Holdings LLC.  “Manna House is committed to their mission.  The staff and volunteers prepare and serve meals 365 days a year, and you don’t have to complete any paperwork to receive a meal.”    

“We feed approximately 200 individuals daily, and this gift will help us continue our mission,” said Jessica Viator, executive director of Manna House.  “Manna House operates purely off of donations, so we’re extremely grateful for Cleco’s support.”

Viator said while most of their patrons are homeless, Manna House also serves individuals who have fallen on hard times due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well asindividuals with low incomes.  Meals are served daily from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.  Due to the pandemic, meals are currently served outside the facility in to-go boxes. To make a donation and support their efforts, visit https://givetomannahouse.com/.

UPDATE: Jackson Street Opens After 'Possible Explosive Material'

The following has been released to Q93 from the Alexandria Police Department:

 

Alexandria, La. (February 28, 2021) – Alexandria Police have made an arrest in the incident that took place around 10:45 a.m. this morning in the 3400 block Jackson Street. 

 

Officers initially responded to a disturbance and, during the arrest, located suspicious materials inside the suspect’s vehicle. Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit along with Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office Hazmat/Bomb Unit, Louisiana State Police and the F.B.I. all assisted.
 
Chris Osteen, 38, of Alexandria, is charged with simple assault, disturbing the peace, remaining on premises after being forbidden, and manufacturing or possession of a delayed incendiary device
 
This is an ongoing investigation. If anyone has any information about this incident, please contact the detective division at 318-449-5099.

BREAKING: Jackson Street Closed Off Due to 'Possible Explosive Material'

The following has been released to Q93 from the Alexandria Police Department: 

 

ALEXANDRIA, La. (February 28, 2021) - Alexandria Police are working an active scene in the 3400 block of Jackson Street where possible explosive material was located inside a vehicle. 

 

Jackson Street is closed off in both directions from MacArthur Drive to Texas Avenue. We are asking citizens to avoid the area until further notice.
 

Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit along with Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office Hazmat/Bomb Unit, Louisiana State Police, and the F.B.I. are on scene.

 

UPDATE: Jackson Street is now open again as of 2:30 p.m.

City of Alexandria Boil Advisory Lifted

The following was released to Q93 from the City of Alexandria:

 

ALEXANDRIA, La. (City of Alexandria) - The City-Wide boil advisory issued Wednesday, February 17, 2021, is now lifted.

 

Power has been restored to all COA wells and production facilities and system pressure has been restored to normal. The State of Louisiana has tested the water, and the results of the tests are clear, according to Utility Director Michael Marcotte.

 

The Alexandria Water Department has lifted the boil advisory for the properties located in the area described below:

 

All the properties served by the City of Alexandria Water System:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.

All Rapides Parish Public Schools Open on Monday, February 22nd

All Rapides Parish Public Schools will be open tomorrow (Monday, February 22nd). Bottled water will be provided for drinking at schools due to local boil advisories. Additionally, breakfast and lunch meals that do not require water preparation will be provided.

 

RPSB strongly encourages everyone to continue to conserve water until water pressures increase to optimum capacity. Increased water pressure is necessary to keep schools open.

Cleco: Power Restored to 93 Percent of Customers

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:


 

PINEVILLE, La. – Feb. 20, 2021 (8 p.m.) – As of 8 p.m. today, Cleco has restored power to approximately 40,000of the roughly 43,000 customers who lost power after a second winter storm hit the company’s service territory within the same week.  

Power Outages as of 8 p.m.

Allen Parish

39

Avoyelles Parish

598

Catahoula Parish

26

DeSoto Parish

42

Evangeline Parish

34

Grant Parish

289

Natchitoches Parish

53

Rapides Parish

2,314

Red River Parish

Less than 5

Sabine Parish

11

Vernon Parish

Less than 5

 

City of Alexandria Asks Residents to Continue Water Conservation Efforts

The following has been released to Q93 from

the City of Alexandria: 
 

 

Alexandria, La. (February 20, 2021) — City of Alexandria officials continue to ask all water customers to use as little water as possible until further notice as the city works to refill water tanks and restore water pressure.

 

“We are grateful to everyone who has stepped up by eliminating or reducing their water use. You are making a difference,” said Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall. “The system is slowly starting to stabilize, but it is still extremely fragile. It’s critical that everyone continue to use as little water as possible. Any increase in usage could wipe out the progress we have made so far. I know it creates a hardship, but if we all keep working together we can get through this.”

 

Utility Director Michael Marcotte said the key to improving water pressure is refilling the four elevated water tanks that serve the city. “Getting those tanks filled is critical because that is where our water pressure comes from – it’s a gravity fed system – so we need to get the water levels back up in those tanks as quickly as possible.”

 

Hall said the city has not mandated the closure of any businesses at this time. “We are asking everyone to voluntarily limit their use of water. Now is not the time to go to a carwash or engage in any activity that uses a large amount of water,” Hall said. “Our hope is these actions will allow our water supply to recover. If not, additional steps may become necessary.”

 

Marcotte added business and property owners should continue to inspect pipes for leaks. “Temperatures warmed up enough today that any frozen pipes should have thawed, so it’s imperative that people thoroughly inspect their water systems for leaks and shut off water to any broken pipes,” Marcotte said.  “We still need people to treat a water leak like they would a crime – if they see it, they need to call us at 318-473-1264 so we can come turn it off,” he said.

 

The city-wide boil advisory issued Wednesday remains in effect. Residents are advised not to drink the water until they boil it, which includes bringing the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. 

 

“It will be up to the Department of Health as to how long the boil advisory remains in place,” Marcotte said. “Once system pressure stabilizes we will start testing water quality. Those tests can take 24-48 hours if not longer. The boil advisory will remain in place until testing shows the water is safe for residents to drink.”

 

To assist residents during the boil advisory, the city distributed 900 cases of bottled water to residents Saturday afternoon. “We are grateful to GOHSEP (Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management) for the water we received today,” Hall said. “We placed an order for bottled water before the storm and this was the first shipment. We expect to get more and will distribute that to residents as soon as it arrives.”

Cleco: Power Restored to 76 Percent of Customers

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco: 

 

 

PINEVILLE, La. – Feb. 19, 2021 (8 p.m.) – As of 8 p.m. today, Cleco has restored power to nearly 33,000 of the roughly 43,000 customers who lost power after a second winter storm hit the company’s service territory within the same week.  

Power Outages as of 8 p.m.

Allen Parish

176

Avoyelles Parish

2,406

Catahoula Parish

24

DeSoto Parish

49

Evangeline Parish

331

Grant Parish

759

Natchitoches Parish

84

Rapides Parish

5,716

Red River Parish

5

Sabine Parish

718

Vernon Parish

28

 

City of Alexandria Urges Minimal Use of Water to Help Rebuild Supply

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco: 
 

 

Alexandria, La. (February 19, 2021) — City of Alexandria officials are asking residents and area businesses to use as little water as possible until further notice as the city works to refill water tanks and restore water pressure.

 

“Power has been restored to all of our water wells, and we are generating three times the amount of water we normally generate daily, but it’s not enough to outpace demand like we need it to,” said Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall. “We really need folks to eliminate their use of water until we can get the supply built back up. We need to do this not only to get water back in our homes, but to our hospitals and nursing facilities that have a critical need for water for patient care.” 

 

Utility Director Michael Marcotte said part of the problem is leaks from broken pipes. “We believe we have some businesses that have been closed all week during the storm that have leaks and broken pipes and they don’t realize it because they haven’t been in their office,” he said. “We’re asking business owners and rental property owners to please check their sites for leaks and broken pipes and get those shut off immediately.”

 

Marcotte added that if a resident sees a water leak at a business or even a neighbor’s house they should report it immediately. “We need people to treat a water leak like they would a crime – if they see it, they need to call us at 318-473-1264 so we can come turn it off,” he said.

 

Until demand is reduced, Hall said a timeline can’t be set for restoration of water pressure. “We have to get to the point where we get ahead of demand, and right now we’re not there,” Hall said. “That is why it is so critical that everyone – homes and businesses – do everything they can to reduce their use of water so that we can get the tanks refilled.”

 

Residents are reminded the city-wide boil advisory issued Wednesday remains in effect. As water service is restored, residents are advised not to drink the water until they boil it, which includes bringing the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. 

 

“It will be up to the Department of Health as to how long the boil advisory remains in place,” Marcotte said. “Once the water pressure stabilizes we will start taking test samples and send them for testing to ensure water safety. Those tests can take 24-48 hoursif not longer. As was the case after Hurricane Laura, the boil advisory will remain in place until testing shows the water is safe for residents to drink.”

 

Road conditions throughout the city remain hazardous. Temperatures are expected to be below freezing again Friday night, which will allow for some refreezing overnight, so residents are asked to minimize travel.

 

Due to closure of the local transfer station and landfill through the weekend, household trash collection will resume normal schedule starting Monday. ATRANS bus service is also scheduled to resume normal operation Monday

City of Alexandria Working to Restore Water Service After Winter Storm Viola

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco: 
 

 

Alexandria, La. (February 18, 2021) — City of Alexandria crews completed restoration of power to customers affected by Winter Storm Viola on Thursday, and power was partially restored to the City’s water wells in Kisatchie National Forest to help improve water supply following back-to-back winter storms this week.

 

“Power outages in the city affected about 3,300 customers on Wednesday, and thanks to the hard work of our utility crews and our contractors, we completed restoration today,” said Alexandria Mayor Jeff Hall. “Stabilizing the water system is our main concern now. We are working with Cleco to get all power restored at our water wells in the Kisatchie National Forest. They have made some progress, and once they are complete, we can increase productionand begin the process of refilling our storage tanks which will allow system pressure to slowly recover to normal levels.”

 

Any city resident who is without power should call 318-473-1301 to report the outage.

 

Loss of electrical power to city wells in the Kisatchie National Forest on Wednesday, combined with increased water use from broken pipes and residents dripping faucets to prevent frozen pipes, caused a severe decrease in water pressure. While the city had 15 wells in full operation inside the city and generators in place in Kisatchie in anticipation of a possible power loss, water production was not able to keep up with demand.

 

Power was restored by Cleco to six of the 32 city wells in Kisatchie by mid-morning Thursday and a significant portion were expected to be re-energized Thursday night; approximately 6 wells will remain to be restored Friday.

 

“We need residents to continue to minimize their use of water until the system can catch up and we can get the water pressure back up,” said Utility Director Michael Marcotte. “If everyone does their best to conserve and not use water, we could be able to get pressure back up within 24-36 hours.”

 

One thing that could slow that timeline is discovering additional broken pipes as temperatures rise and pipes thaw. “Business owners that have been closed may go in Friday and find they have leaks, and residents may have pipes start leaking as we get above freezing,” Marcotte said. “If someone has a leak and they are not able to shut off the water, they can give us a call at 318-473-1264, and we can come shut off the water for them. It’s imperative that we shut down any leaks as quickly as possible so we can rebuild our water supply and pressure.”

 

A city-wide boil advisory was issued Wednesday when the system’s water pressure dropped below 20 psi. The normal range is around 50 psi. As water service is restored, residents are advised not to drink the water until they boil it, which includes bringing the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute. 

 

“It will be up to the Department of Health as to how long the boil advisory remains in place,” Marcotte said. “Once the water pressure stabilizes we will start taking test samples and send them for testing to ensure water safety. Those tests can take 24-48 hoursif not longer. As was the case after Hurricane Laura, the boil advisory will remain in place until testing shows the water is safe for residents to drink.”

 

Road conditions throughout the city remain hazardous. Temperatures are expected to be below freezing again Thursday night, which will allow for some refreezing overnight, so residents are asked to minimize travel.

 

City offices will remain closed Friday, including ATRANS bus service and household trash pickup.

Cleco: Power Restored to 22,000 Customers

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco: 

 

 

PINEVILLE, La. – Feb. 18, 2021 (7 p.m.) – Cleco has restored power to 22,000 customers since the second winter storm moved across the company’s service territory yesterday.  As of 7 p.m., roughly 21,000 customers are without power.  At the height of the storm, approximately 43,000 customers were without power.  More estimated times for restoration will be communicated during tomorrow’s updates.  

Power Outages as of 7 p.m.

Allen Parish

448

Avoyelles Parish

5,772

Beauregard Parish

5

Catahoula Parish

24

DeSoto Parish

310

Evangeline Parish

1,210

Grant Parish

1,543

LaSalle Parish

11

Natchitoches Parish

343

Rapides Parish

9,558

Red River Parish

74

Sabine Parish

1,648

St. Mary Parish

11

St. Tammany Parish

Less than 5

Vernon Parish

34


How to report a power outage:
Online through MyAccount at cleco.com, Contact Us form on cleco.com or call 1-800-622-6537.

Power Restored to Nearly 18,000 Cleco Customers

The following has been released to Q93 from Cleco:

 

 

PINEVILLE, La. – Feb. 18, 2021 (3 p.m.) – Cleco has restored power to nearly 18,000 customers since the second winter storm moved across the company’s service territory yesterday.  As of 3 p.m., roughly 25,000customers are without power.  At the height of the storm, approximately 43,000 customers were without power.  

Restoration Assessment
Below are estimated times for restoration (ETR).  More ETRs will be communicated as they become available.  Please note that unexpected damage or inclement weather could impact restoration efforts and timelines.  
 

Rapides Parish

• Pineville 

o Crews are working to restore power on Mary Hill Road off Hwy. 165, Jefferson Hwy. and parts of Shreveport Hwy.  Restoration in these areas will be complete this afternoon.  From there, crews will move to the community behind Pineville Jr. High off of Edgewood Drive (Iris Park, Comanche Drive andHiawatha Trail).  From there, crews will move to the Donahue Ferry area. 

o Restoration efforts in Pineville will continue throughout the day and into tomorrow, Friday, Feb. 19 until all customers’ power is restored.  There are some customers who could be without power until Sunday, Feb. 21, but those will be small, scattered, outages.  

o Icy road conditions are making travel challenging for crews in central Louisiana.  Additionally, the damage is scattered and not concentrated in one area, so crews are having to travel a lot in between restoration efforts.  There are a lot of trees on power lines to clear and burnt wire to replace. 

• Woodworth

o Power will be restored to customers inside the city limits today.  This includes the Coulee Crossing subdivision.  There will be a small number of customers without power overnight.

• Glenmora & Forest Hill – Crews are working in these towns, but some customers will be without powerovernight.

 

Acadia Parish

• Power restored to all customers who can receive power. Customers without power should report an outage.

Allen Parish

• Kinder, Oberlin – Power restored to all customers who can receive power.  Customers without power should report an outage.

• Oakdale – Power restored to 60 percent of customers; remaining 40 percent will be without power overnight.

 

Avoyelles Parish

• Bunkie – Power restored to some customers.  There will be some customers without power overnight.  

• Marksville, Hessmer, Simmesport, Bordelonville, Moreauville – Damage assessment is still underway.

Evangeline Parish

• Ville Platte, Eunice, Mamou and Pine Prairie – Power restored to all customers.  Customers without power in these towns should report an outage.

• Chicot State Park will be out overnight.  There is significant tree damage in this area.

 

St. Landry Parish

• Power restored to all customers who can receive power.  Customers without power in Acadia Parish should report an outage.

 

Beauregard Parish

• Power will be restored to the majority of customers by tonight.


Calcasieu Parish

• Power restored to all customers who can receive powerit.  Customers without power should report an outage.

 

DeSoto Parish

• Power will be restored to the majority of customers by tonight.

 

Natchitoches Parish

• Power will be restored to the majority of customers by tonight.

• Port of Natchitoches – Power has been restored.

Red River Parish

• Coushatta – Power will be restored to the majority of customers by tonight.

 

Sabine Parish

• Many, Zwolle & Converse – Power will be restored to customers inside the city limits by tonight.

Vernon Parish

• Power will be restored to all customers by tonight.

Power Outages as of 3 p.m.

Allen Parish

452

Avoyelles Parish

6,551

Beauregard Parish

33

Catahoula Parish

24

DeSoto Parish

335

Evangeline Parish

1,299

Grant Parish

1,788

LaSalle Parish

11

Natchitoches Parish

382

Rapides Parish

11,051

Red River Parish

98

Sabine Parish

2,925

St. Mary Parish

11

St. Tammany Parish

15

Vernon Parish

34


How to report a power outage:
Online through MyAccount at cleco.com, Contact Us form on cleco.com or call 1-800-622-6537.

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