Today’s kids are booked, busy, and burned out—but one parent is asking if it’s time to bring back a simpler, slower kind of childhood.

 See what Ida says 

Dear Fellow Citizens, 

I’m John Fleming, your State Treasurer and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

This Saturday’s election is extremely important. DC lobbyists and Baton Rouge elites have poured millions into supporting their preferred candidate — NOT ME. 

At stake is the carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) industry’s push to use YOUR tax dollars to seize YOUR private land through eminent domain.  Estimates suggest that up to 75% of the nation’s CO2 emissions could be pumped beneath our lands, lakes, and rivers – ‘captured’ for eternity. The whole thing is a “Green New Deal” scam, which will make the elites wealthier at the expense of the rest of us.  I am the only candidate who is 100% opposed to this fraud and abuse.  

Don’t be fooled! The establishment and powers that be are trying to buy our Louisiana Senate seat. I can’t be bought, bribed, or bullied! 

Our future, and the future of our children and grandchildren, hangs in the balance. Please don’t sit this one out — vote this Saturday, May 16th.   Polls open at 7:00 a.m. 

Thank you,

John Fleming
Louisiana State Treasurer
Republican Candidate for the US Senate 

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Last October 31st, it was trick-or-treat at Alexandria International Airport – but on that day, it was all treats as it was announced that United Airlines would be returning to AEX in 2026. Fast forward 6+ months and the celebration date is set. This Thursday, May 21, at 2:30pm, the inaugural flight between Alexandria International Airport (AEX) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will mark an important milestone for connectivity across Central Louisiana.

The route was suspended in 2022 due in part to a nationwide pilot shortage, leaving Central Louisiana without a direct United connection. The new service will operate under United Express, powered by SkyWest Airlines, providing direct access to Houston’s global network.

Beginning this Thursday, United Express will offer two daily flights between Alexandria and Houston. Flights are now available for booking at united.com or by calling 800-864-8331.

Departures from AEX: 9:43 AM and 4:00 PM
Return Flights from Houston: 1:40 PM and 6:45 PM

This schedule gives travelers the freedom to make same-day business trips or connect to hundreds of destinations across the U.S. and abroad and is a convenient alternative to driving to Lafayette or even Dallas.

Ralph Hennessy, Executive Director of AEX, says United is starting slow in their return. “They’re starting out, baby steps, right? You’ve got to crawl before you can walk,” Hennessy said. “It’s two flights a day, and then we envision going to three and possibly four.”

Bringing United back to Cenla has been at the top of the list for Hennessy since he first came to England Airpark in December 2022. Hennessy said this move will provide another avenue for people to come and go.

“There are a number of people that live in this area that drive to Houston to do work and then come back. It’s also going to allow people that are in Houston to fly here to do business and go back,” he said. “It’s going to help spur some interest back in the community.”

So Welcome Back United, and welcome back to convenient, same day, non-stop flights to and from Houston, a huge benefit for Cenla’s business travelers, the military and tourists alike.

After 22 years of shared finances, a new disagreement puts one couple at odds: should they help an adult son with car payments, or protect their retirement?

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Proposal sparks discussion on experience, longevity, and the future of Louisiana’s courts

By Journal Staff

Voters across Louisiana will consider Amendment 5 on the May 16, 2026 ballot, a proposal that would increase the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 75.

If approved, the change would allow judges to complete full terms—some as long as 10 years depending on the court—provided they have not reached their 75th birthday at the time of service.

A Shift Reflecting Longer Lifespans

Supporters of the amendment point to a broader societal trend: Americans are living longer and remaining professionally active later in life than when the current retirement limit was established decades ago.

Under the existing system, judges who reach age 70 are required to step down, regardless of their health, performance, or desire to continue serving. Proponents argue that this can lead to the loss of experienced jurists at a time when institutional knowledge and continuity are valuable to the court system.

Continued Service Beyond the Bench

Even under current law, many retired judges remain involved in the legal system, often serving in temporary or ad hoc capacities to assist with caseloads. Backers of Amendment 5 say the proposal would formalize and extend that opportunity, allowing qualified judges to remain in full-time roles longer rather than transitioning to limited assignments.

Broad Support Across Legal Circles

The amendment has drawn backing from various members of Louisiana’s legal community, including attorneys, judicial organizations, and others who cite the benefits of experience and stability on the bench.

Advocates emphasize that the proposal does not eliminate voter oversight. Judges would still be required to stand for election, meaning the public retains the ability to decide whether a candidate—regardless of age—should continue serving.

Considerations for Voters

As with any constitutional amendment, the decision ultimately rests with voters. Amendment 5 raises broader questions about balancing experience with generational turnover, as well as how best to structure long-term service in the judiciary.

Voters will have the opportunity to weigh those factors when they head to the polls on May 16.

She’s not just a nervous flyer anymore—she’s dreading every trip. With family and work pulling her cross-country, is it time to face her fears or stay grounded for good?

 See what Ida says 

ALEXANDRIA, La. — Louisiana Central has announced a four-hour Mini Summit designed to align education, workforce development, and economic growth in the region.

The event comes as the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) marks its 100th anniversary in 2026. The summit aims to create intentional pathways from education to employment to fuel long-term prosperity and economic growth in Central Louisiana.

The experience will feature nationally recognized speaker Mark C. Perna and IEDC President & CEO Nathan Ohle. Together, they will lead a “call to action” to spark new ideas and build meaningful partnerships among regional leaders in business, education, and the community.

The free, innovative summit will cover critical topics including:

• The Changing Landscape: The implications of the modern world on students, parents, and employers.

• The Smart Machine Age: Analyzing the impact of AI and automation on employment over the next 20 years.

• Closing the Gaps: Addressing skill and awareness gaps to connect education and workforce pipelines.

• The “Why” Generation: Understanding the decision-making process of today’s young people to build a stronger community foundation.

• Education with Purpose: Shifting toward active purpose through certifications, apprenticeships, and degree programs.

• Setting a Universal Rally Point: Creating a shared vision to break down silos and build a regional competitive advantage.

Community members, educators, and business leaders are encouraged to join the momentum and help shape the future of the region.

Registration for this event is free. To learn more and RSVP, visit www.rallycenla.com.