Alexandria Register
Volume 24

Thank you for visiting the Alexandria Retrospective Web site. You can view more entries via the Register Index.

If you haven't already signed the Register, we would be pleased if you would join the many others with Alexandria connections who have viewed this site, and take a minute to sign the Register!

Name: ROGER A SMITH
City: TUCSON
State: AZ
Date: May 31, 2006

Comments: I ARRIVED AT ENGLAND AIR FORCE BASE FRIDAY 13 AUG 1954 WAS ASSIGNED TO 401ST WING, 614TH FBS "LUCKY DEVILS" ( MAJ RUBY COMMANDER) LATER TRANSFERED TO THE 366TH WING, 391 STRIPPED ASS APES (GOL BLAND COMMANDER).

I WAS CREW CHIEF ON F-86F THEN F-84F DID MY TIME DOW AT EGLIN ON THOSE AUX FIELDS AND A 6 MO TOUR AT AVIANO (COMMANDER WAS  MAJ BUCK PATILLO) HE RETIRED AS A TOW OR THREE STAR LOVED THE PEOPLE ON BASE AND THE CIVILIANS DOWN TOWN. SORRY I NEVER GOT BACK TO VISIT... I LEFT THERE IN 1957 WENT BACK TO NY..COULDN'T HACK THE COLD THOUGH

Name: Libby Lazenby Day
City: Shreveport
State: LA
Date: May 26, 2006

Comments: Although I wasn't born in Alexandria I grew up in neighboring communities, Riverview and Pine Prairie.  I also attended LSU-A.  Alex was always the place to go when we "went to town."  I had my first job in gift wrapping at Wellans the Christmas of 1959.  Many Saturdays were spent at the Paramount Theater, drinking cherry cokes at Walgreens, exploring the Bentley Hotel and trying on clothes I couldn't afford.

What wonderful memories your site has evoked. 

Thank you.

Name: JOHN JONES
City: HOUSTON
State: TX
Date: May 25, 2006

Comments: I'VE CHECKED THIS SITE AND IT'S PRETTY GOOD. I HAVE SOME GOOD MEMORIES ABOUT THE TIME THAT ME AND MY FAMILY LIVED THERE. IT WAS A GOOD PLACE TO GROW UP IN AND EVEN THOUGH I AM NOT FROM THERE ORGINALLY IT WAS A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE. MY FAMILY AND I LIVED ON GEORGE'S LANE IN ALEXANDRIA LA FOR A BRIEF TIME. BUT AFTER I FINISHED COLLEGE I DECIDED TO RETURN TO HOUSTON TEXAS MY HOME TOWN. I REMEMBER GOING TO THE FOOTBALL GAMES AT BOLTON STADIUM ON FRIDAY NIGHTS WHEN I WAS IN HIGH SCHOOL. THAT SEEMS YEARS AGO.

I'M A GRADUATE OF BOLTON HIGH IN THE SENIOR CLASS OF 1969 AND ALSO LSU. IF ANY ONE IN THIS CLASS SHOULD READ THIS AND THEY RECOGINZE ME THEY CAN GET IN TOUCH WITH ME AT THIS ADDRESS.

JOHN C JONES
2101 FOUNTAINVIEW 7G
HOUSTON TEXAS 77057.

THANK YOU FOR THIS GREAT SIGHT, IT SURE IS A GOOD WAY TO REMEMBER THINGS.

Name: Bryan Kent Ryder
City: Cumberland
State: Va.
Date: May 23, 2006

Comments: I am a former resident of Alexandria. I am the second son of Claudia Jube Kellogg. My father is Paul R. Ryder Former owner of "Poor Paul's Steakhouse" now closed. It was located on Hwy. 28 West. I have been away for nine years now, but thanks to your website even though I am from a different era the pics really show me how much I miss my home town. I hope that I can return there someday and tour the area to see how much has changed and rekindle some long lost memories.

Thank You again,
Kent Ryder

Name: Larry Bringol
City: Alexandria
State: La
Date: May 20, 2006

Comments: BOBBIE LONG VINSON:  I noticed your post in which you were searching for a picture of Robert Transbarger who played for the Aces in 1947.

I had a late '40's photograph of the team.  However, I don't think it was from '47.  I was only eight at the time and had probably not yet become a fan.  Moreover, I don't remember Mr. Transbarger's name, and the first string catcher in my picture was Red Smith.

In any event, my friend sent the picture to Bob Tompkins at The Town Talk, and I believe he published it.

Name: Dyanne Kimball Laborde
City: Alexandria
State: La
Date: May 20, 2006

Comments: Wow, what memories...............Your website inspired memories of the old Don Theater....The old Pack of Fun Club on Saturday morning where we danced in the isles and ate popcorn  and a coke for 25c.... Oh, and watched Roy Rogers movies. It was where I screamed for Elvis, but never really understood why.

The downtown pictures  brought back memories of shopping at wellans for my Homecoming dress..... Along with Schwartzberg's and Newtstadt's for shoes. My first employment was at Kress during Christmas holidays. I was taken upstairs to be trained on the old fashioned cash register ( the kind where the drawer hit you in the stomach if you weren't quick) and I had a job for $1.25 per hour. My first pay check was spent on a cherished Thermo Jac dress from Judy's. It was expensive... $25.00!!! My friend, Cindy Collier remarked that I had spent a whole quarter of $100.00.  My boy friend, Jim McConnell worked at Hub City Hardware.

We used to meet for lunch at the old Walgreen's Drug store or meet his Mom for lunch at the Bentley. As a child my mom used to take me to the top floor of the Bentley to look down ( the cars looked like ants) since it was the tallest building in town. How I wish to see  the old city hall. One Christmas  my friend Kathy Messer and I got to turn on the Christmas lights to start the Christmas festivities. I remember the Santa house and the little church on the grounds. In those days I walked everywhere or took the city bus. As long as my friends were along, it didn't matter, it was safe.

Thank you bringing back the memories....

Things were so simple then..........................

Name: Charles Franklin
City: Houston
State: TX
Date: May 20, 2006

Comments: Just visiting this time

Name: Rose Marie Locascio Hopper
City: Holden
State: MO
Date: May 18, 2006

Comments: I moved to Alexandria in 62...My mom was from there and my precious Granny and several Aunts and Uncles lived there. One of many fond memories of Alex was the city park and those Lazarone's po'boys!!

Then when I got older the "drive-in" on Wed nights and the cruising hamburger joint was the best place to be.  I graduated from Bolton High in 66 and married a guy from Ft. Polk and moved to Oregon..been many places and will soon be heading back to Oregon..after our 40th Reunion in July that is!!

Would love to hear more from all of you...My dad worked for the city and built all the cement walkways and supports for the Zoo and his initials and date are still there!  My mom worked at Suburban Gardens for a few years but died suddenly in 66 when I was getting ready to graduate!!

I remember my first job was the Trailways Bus Depot Restaurant..that was in 65. Remember the NEHI pop? My uncle was production supervisor there and I worked there for a while in 66.

I could go on all night!! Love this site ...Thanks to Dena for sending it to me!

Name: Gaile Coco Kersey
City: Baton Rouge
State: La.
Date: May 12, 2006

Comments: My memories of growing up in Alexandria are beautiful and have provided me with the beginnings of a wonderful life. I take great pleasure in dreaming of the wonderful friends and places that most people who lived there only a short time know. I am still in touch with a good many of my treasured friends but would be so happy to hear from anyone that remembers.  I lived there full time until 1957 when I graduated from Providence and went to college. email me

Thank you so much for this great site.

Name: Gertie Eddy
City: Breaux Bridge
State: La
Date: May 11, 2006

Comments: I am so happy that you are continuing the Retrospectives .  Thank you so much for the memories. I enjoyed thinking about the old water spray wagons that used to wet down the streets, while we would run after them to get sprayed with the water.

Gertie

Name: Nancy Chambers Richards
City: Alexandria
State: LA
Date: May 11, 2006

Comments: Wonderful site!  We are having our reunion this summer for 1966 graduates of Bolton High School.  If that was your year, please let us know if you have not received an invitation yet.  We may not know your address.  Thanks.

Name: Jennifer "Wheeler" Godwin
City: Shaw AFB
State: SC
Date: May 5, 2006

Comments: Great site!  I went to England AFB Elementary from 1985-1992 (k-6).  My sister, Sarah Hamilton, was in Ms. Smith's Kindergarten in 1992. My dad, H.W."Hambone" Hamilton, worked maintenance on the A-10s.

I would love to find some of my old classmates or teachers. 

Name: Nancy Stephens Faught Thomas
City: Bradenton
State: FL
Date: April 29, 2006

Comments: How wonderful to read about home.  Born in Alexandria in 1951 and lived there until 1978.  It was a wonderful and safe place to grow-up. 

I remember riding my bike to the park and the thrill of the hills of "Bicycle Hill".  Then staying at the little creek (can't remember what we called it) and catching minnows and tadpoles with momma's strainers.  Then to the rides and getting snow cones from the little refreshment stand.  Little League park named after Daddy (Mecom Stephens Field) in 1966.

Momma passed away in 1995 and we sold the house on Shirley Park Place (off MacArthur Drive).  Still have many friends in Louisiana.  Hope to make a trip back to visit soon, but so afraid that too many things will have changed too much.

Attended Aiken Elementary, Alexandria Jr High and Bolton (1969 graduate).  Anyone out there that remembers me, please e-mail and tell me what you have been doing.  I have been married to Kevin for 25 years, have 3 children:  Ashley 32, Whitney 24 and Chris 22.  Also have 2 grandchildren.  I work for Girl Scouts of Gulf coast FL in Sarasota. 

Thank you again for a wonderful walk down memory lane.

Name: Jack Baillio
City: Albuquerque
State: NM
Date: April 24, 2006

Comments: Attended Menard high school and graduated in 1965. Married to Peggy Roblow for almost 39 years and counting. Now reside in Albuquerque New Mexico. I also attended Maryhill seminary for my freshman and sophomore year.

Peggy Baillio attended Providence high School after attending Cabrini for most of her childhood.

Name: Michael Diemond
City: Portland
State: Me.
Date: April 22, 2006

Comments: I was born in Alexandria in 1946 while my father was stationed at the Army-Air Force base during WWII. We left when I was 3 months old. I much appreciated the Retrospective to give me some perspective of the place I was born and where my parents lived for 2 years. Thanks

Name: Johnny Miller
City: Denton
State: Tx
Date: April 22, 2006

Comments: Born and raised in Alexandria, a Bolton graduate and still miss Alex with all my heart. My Dad was a contractor and was friends with the Talambus brothers so I ate many burger baskets and had many root beers from Reed & Bell.

It helped that I only lived 2 blocks from Reed & Bell also.

The Don Theater, Wellans, Noah's -- just so many memories of a simpler time.

Great site - Thanks!

Name: BOB ROBERTSON
City: HOUSTON
State: TX
Date: April 19, 2006

Comments: When did the Hotel Bentley close?  Our parents stayed there on their honeymoon back in the forties.  My Mom was from Ville Platte,  LA and my Dad from Lafayette, IN.  After the war my parents, sister and I moved to Alexandria, LA for a couple of years. 

My son, a pilot for Continental Express stayed at the Bentley a couple years ago and was so impressed he e-mailed pictures he took for me.  I have been wanting to stay at the Bentley and talked my four sisters into making a weekend of it (to celebrate us all being in our 50's, which will only happen this year) only to find the Grand ole Hotel closed. 

If anyone has information as to why the Bentley closed and if there are plans to reopen it please e-mail me.

Thanks for the great web page.  It’s now bookmarked as a favorite.

Bob Robertson

Name: Tammy Lloid
City: Pineville
State: LA
Date: April 19, 2006

Comments: I've enjoyed reading the comments and viewing the postcards.  I'm very interested in locating photos of the Alexandria Zoo taken over the years.  Volunteers at the Zoo are compiling a history (2006 marks the Zoo's 80th birthday!) and anyone having info or photos to share can contact Lee Ann Whitt at the Zoo 473-1143.

Name: Hattie R. Leflore
City: Tokoyo Japan
State: al
Date: April 18, 2006

Comments: I grew up visiting my grandmother in Alexandria on 16th street and it was a simpler and a grand time to be a child in alexandria we got to walk to the neighborhood stores when my day went to war in the late sixties i even went to school there.

Name: Daniel C. Field
City: North Las Vegas
State: NV
Date: April 10, 2006

Comments: I worked hard and played hard at England AFB from November 1977 until June 1981. I met my wife there, and I worked on A7D's and A10A's fighter aircraft for the 23rd Tactical Fighter wing, 23rd CRS, Electronic Warfare.

I loved the work, and the feeling of being part of something bigger than myself. I had the time of my young life.

Name: Eloise Lundy (Smith)
City: Barbourville
State: KY
Date: April 10, 2006

Comments: graduated Bolton High in '56.  Poodle skirts and pony tails - unequaled era - thanks for sharing.

Name: Billy Coleman
City: Lucky
State: La
Date: April 9, 2006

Comments: Alexandria will always be a very special place for me.  The friends still there and Christopher (now 24) was born there at St. Francis.  Was stationed at England AFB from 1976-1982 and really learned to love the town and people.     

Thanks for all the good memories.

Name: DAVID C CAPLAN
City: ALEXANDRIA,
State: LA.
Date: April 8, 2006

Comments: I enjoyed my 50th Bolton High School reunion this past weekend and your web site was mentioned and I found it and thoroughly enjoyed the retrospective.  You have captured the past 50+ years extremely  well.

I am happy to report that Caplan's is still present in the downtown location (across from city hall) and we are very proud of a brand new location on North Mall Boulevard (opened March 2005). 

The tradition of Caplan's continues with a new generation of leadership with two of my sons in the business as we begin our 115th year in business in central Louisiana. It is so refreshing to recall all the history that you have shared with your web site.  We would love to update your piece with a picture of our new free standing store.  Thanks for all your efforts.

David C Caplan

Name: Bob Wells
City: Pearland
State: TX
Date: April 7, 2006

Comments: I was born in Alexandria, went to Bush Ave-Brame-Rugg Elementary and then to Bolton.  My father owned and operated the Model Cleaners on Masonic Drive near St. Cabrini Hospital.  I went to Calvary Baptist Church and was in BSA Troup #12.  I graduated from Bolton in 1956.  Have just returned from a wonderful time at my 50th Anniversary reunion of the Class of '56.

Name: John Maus
City: Bellflower
State: CA
Date: March 26, 2006

Comments: Sgt. 1908th Communication Squadron. 1973-1976.
Maintenance technician for Radar Approach Control and tower control.
Equipment: AN/FPN 47, AN/FPN 16 Radars.
Memories:.

Radioing the tower to cross mid field.

Praying that the approach radar would not go down in the middle of a Louisiana deluge. 

Watching the action of Air Traffic Controllers inside the dark RAPCON.

Name: Bill Reinhart
City: Ambler
State: PA
Date: March 25, 2006

Comments: This is my second contribution to this terrific website, the first being on May 6, 2003, which explains my connection with, and abiding fondness for, Alec.  I would love to hear from any of you who attended Alexandria Junior High during the years 1958-1960 and who might remember me.  Please email me if you get a chance!!  Thanks! 

Name: Mike Chapman
City: Colorado Springs
State: CO
Date: March 22, 2006

Comments: I received this recently from a Mrs. Shirley Ettinger Orlansky, who writes . . . "[I] was delighted to be reminded of Chapman's Grocery. 

One of my early memories is of being sent to Chapman's for an item or two.  Hard to believe this in today's world, but I am sure that I did this at 9 or l0 years old.  We lived on l3th and Monroe, and in those days sending a child to the store was perfectly safe. 

I have fond memories of Mr. Chapman.....he was always so helpful.  I also remember buying a box of cookies for 6 cents, and eating  them on the way home!  (This may date me......no secret, I was 10 in 1941!)"

Thank you, Mrs. Orlansky for sharing a memory of Chapman's Grocery Store.

Mike Chapman

Name: Louis E. Hayden Jr.
City: Bethlehem
State: PA
Date: March 20, 2006

Comments: I was born in Alex in 1944. My fathers family had lived in Alex since 1923 or 1924 at 2134 City Park Dr. on the corner at Bush St. My Grandfather was Fred Ross Hayden Sr. who worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad. He was a boy scout leader for many years and lead the Alex Civil Defense during WWII. My Uncle Fred Ross Hayden Jr. also worked for the SPRR and lived in Alex until his death in 1996. My cousins and Linda and Ross Hayden.

I just visited Alex to burry my Aunt Melba Deville Hayden. I was able to spend some time and tour around the old home town. A very bitter sweet experience. It brought back such wonderful memories. Too bad all the family in town are now horizontal and in Pineville cemeteries. I hope this was not my last visit to Alex.

Name: Richard Ray    USAF Ret.
City: Hahira
State: Ga.
Date: March 19, 2006

Comments: Looking for information on Mike Conway USAF Ret. Had Conway Reality Company in Alex. His family and mine were friends while I was stationed at England AFB,77-81.Would like to find out about family and where abouts.

Name: Fredericka R. Mathews
City: Alexandria
State: LA
Date: March 17, 2006

Comments: This is a wonderful site! The memories come rolling back, Castor Plunge, where I learned to swim and the snows of the 60's where I made snow angels and did figure 8's in my VW Bug. Lynn Morris, I miss you!

Name: Joe Weary (CMSgt Retired)
City: San Antonio
State: TX
Date: March 15, 2006

Comments: Stationed there twice: Sep 76-Sep 78 and May 79-Apr 91. Worked in the 74th and 76th AMU's as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist (crew chief, phase dock, and R&R shop). Spent remainder of career as a recruiter, retiring after 30 years of service.

Name: Thomas Geyer
City: Moline
State: IL
Date: March 11, 2006

Comments: Wow! What wonderful memories this site brings back.

The photos of all the places at which I shopped, played, ate with my family, and attended school somehow makes it seem as though each memory was created only yesterday instead of decades ago.

Thank you for the walk down memory lane.

Name: Minyon "Mickie" Bond
City: Phoenix
State: AZ
Date: March 11, 2006

Comments: I never lived in Alex but had a very good friend who came from there. We went to graduate school in Natchitoches in the mid 60's. I always enjoyed going with her on visits to Alex.....it was a trip to the "big" city for us!

Name: Charles Rowden
City: Westbury
State: NY
Date: March 10, 2006

Comments: I graduated from Bolton High in 1956 and subsequently went to Florida State and the U. of Illinois. I have lived in New York since 1967. I come back on brief occasions to visit Alexandria but real ties were severed with my mother's death in 1996. Congratulations on your site.

Name: JEAN REDMAN
City: WOOSTER
State: OH
Date: March 5, 2006

Comments: I HAVE NO IDEA WHERE ALEXANDRIA, LA. IS BUT I JUST READ AN ARTICLE IN COUNTRY MAGAZINE BY RITA VANDERSYPEN. ALEXANDRIA SOUNDS LIKE A SMALL TOWN IN OHIO WHERE I GREW UP. I, AS MANY OTHERS FEEL SO BADLY ABOUT THE DESTRUCTION DONE BY KATRINA. WHEN I SAW WHERE YOU ARE FROM IT MADE ME WONDER IF YOUR FAIR CITY IS STILL THERE OR WERE YOU FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO HAVE ESCAPED THE AWFUL DESTRUCTION. I AM HOPEFUL THAT YOU DID.

Name: Bob Grannan
City: Howell
State: MI
Date: March 3, 2006

Comments: Alexandria and the people I met here back in 1953 will always have a special placed in my heart. Seems like only yesterday and those memories become more beautiful as I grow older.

Name: Sue Lyons (nee Mathews)
City: Sour Lake
State: TX
Date: March 3, 2006

Comments: I have enjoyed seeing the photographs, but it was sad as well. My parents (J. Wallace Mathews and Cynthia R. Jackson Mathews) were raised and married in "Alek." My grandparents lived and died there. I was born there. They are all with the Lord now, but I still remember all the places, streets and goings-on. Especially the barbeque po-boys and curly fries from Lazarones!

Name: Sharon Culverhouse
City: Sebring
State: FL
Date: March 2, 2006

Comments: My husband and I spent our first year of marriage in Alexandria. He was stationed at England Air Forse Base.

Our daughter was born at St Frances Cabrini Hospital (1976). Now, it's 31 years later -and the special memories are still strong. Many visits to the zoo - the older cajun couple that 'adopted' us young military couples. :-)

Name: Audrey Rachal
City: Shreveport
State: LA
Date: February 27, 2006

Comments: It was very nice to stroll down memory lane. Thanks again to all who made this site possible.

I was born in Alexandria at St. Francis Cabrini in 1966 and have fond memories of going shopping downtown and riding the escalators at the Sears Department Store. Then later on learning how to drive and having to navigate the traffic circles; what an experience that was. I also have fond memories of England Air Force Base. I was so sad to hear when it closed. I am however delighted that the city did not let it become a ghost town and am very happy to see England Airpark there.

Look forward to visiting again on the web as well as in person.

Name: Frank Baldwin
City: Powhatan
State: VA
Date: February 27, 2006

Comments: My mother, Dorothy Lee Pharis Baldwin, was born in Natchitoches, La. in 1923 and grew up just outside of Alexandria, La. on a plantation named Inglewood. Her father (my grandfather) was employed by the plantation owner (a Mr. Murphy) as the manager. I remember visiting my grandfather, Mr. Vallery Pharis, and my many cousins and aunts and uncles during the 1950's and 1960's, when my family would take a 2 week vacation during the summer and drive from Va. to La. It was always a great adventure for me.

My grandfather, my mother, and her two sisters and two brothers have all passed away, but I have managed to stay in touch with several of my cousins.

This site has brought back many wonderful memories. Thanks.

Name: Stefanie (Bauer) Ledbetter
City: Phoenix
State: AZ
Date: February 25, 2006

Comments: Thank you for this website. I moved to Alexandria from St. Louis, MO in 1979 (3rd grade). Attended Horseshoe, Cherokee, Lincoln Rd. 6th Grade Center and Brame. Moved back to St. Louis just before I was to begin my freshman year at ASH (1985). Reading the names of the schools and streets bring back many memories. Lived on Greenway Drive and off of Twin Bridges Rd. My father was custodial supervisor at Cabrini Hospital. Have not been back since 1985, but plan to one day.

If there is anyone out there that attended Brame in 84-85, please drop me a line. sledbetterus@yahoo.com

Name: Mike Eskew
City: Apache Junction
State: AZ
Date: February 23, 2006

Comments: Really enjoyed the memories spurred by your site.

Name: Jim Boren
City: Baton Rouge
State: LA
Date: February 23, 2006

Comments: Bolton 67 graduate

Name: Mark and Alison Dunham
City: DeRidder
State: LA
Date: February 22, 2006

Comments: We are a recently relocated young military family, quite puzzled at the state of 'sub'-urban decay of the cities and towns of central Louisiana especially beautiful Alexandria. I am frankly, alarmed at the lack of commitment toward preserving and maintaining the beautiful period architecture as well as determined to do what little I may to intervene on its behalf.

In any case, I am impressed and touched by your retrospective. In fact, I came across it in researching why the Renaissance and rebirth of main street USA that is spreading like wildfire in other parts of the country seems to have left Louisiana unretouched and the lovely homes of the Garden District undervalued. I would be interested to know your views on exactly how this state of neglect began and continued and what you would prescribe to those like us who are interested in revitalization, most particularly as it relates to CenLA.

Best regards,
Alison Dunham

Name: Ken Carstens
City: Woodworth
State: LA
Date: February 19, 2006

Comments: I was born in 1932 in alexandria and i know all the old places. it is too bad we can not recycle these old places.

I am c.a. schnack's great grandson and named after maude kennedy schnack, wife of c.a.

You have brought back fond memories. Thank you.

Name: Tom Jackson
City: Grass Valley
State: CA
Date: February 14, 2006

Comments: Lived in Alexandria as a kid until 1968. Dad was stationed at England AFB. Many fond memories of the life and times in Louisiana.

Name: Morris R. Bordelon
City: Pineville
State: LA
Date: February 12, 2006

Comments: I enjoy looking at all the old pictures of time gone by, and I have a lot of good memories thinking of how times were then, and how they are now.

Name: Bradford Wall
City: San Bernardino
State: CA
Date: February 12, 2006

Comments: I was born in Alexandria in 1951. I moved to California when I was 1 or 2, and have been in California ever since. My father, Edward Wall, was born in Simms in 1907. My grandfather, James Wall, married my grandmother, Sarah Jane Waites, in Alexandria in 1902. I would enjoy hearing from any family or anyone who might remember our family.

Name: Eddie Brown
City: Richmond
State: Va
Date: February 12, 2006

Comments: Another visit to this wonderful site. Lived in Alexandria from 1944 through 1950.

Graduated from Bolton High in 1948, and have very fond memories of Alex.

Thanks for such a wonderful site.

Name: Lee
City: New York
State: N.Y.
Date: February 7, 2006

Comments: I have never lived in Alexandria however I decided to visit your site. I was not born in the fifties. I do not know how it is to live in a small town, but I feel that I have missed something great. People are not as family oriented as they once was and society has suffered greatly because of it. Good luck and this was a wonderful idea.

Name: JOHN C JONES
City: HOUSTON TEXAS
State: TX
Date: FEBRUARY 2, 2006

Comments: I LIVED IN ALEXANDRIA LA FROM 1958 UNTIL 1977 WHEN I MOVED TO HOUSTON TEXAS. I HAVE A LOT GOOD MEMORIES OF ALEXANDRIA LA AND A LOT OF GOOD FRIENDS ALTHOUGH I HAVEN'T BEEN BACK THERE IN A WHILE. I WENT TO BOLTON HIGH SCHOOL AND GRADUATED IN THE CLASS OF 1969. IF THERE ARE ANY OF MY FORMER CLASSMATES THERE, I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM THEM. I CAN BE REACHED MY REGULAR MAIL AT

JOHN C JONES
2101 FOUNTAINVIEW 7G
HOUSTON TEXAS 77057

I DO HAVE A SOME GOOD MEMORIES OFALEXAMDRIA ESPECIALLY AT THE FOOTBALL GAMES OVER AT BOLTON STADIUM ON FRIDAY NIGHT. AND ALSO THOSE HOT LOUISIANA SUMMER DAYS WATACHING THE PRO BASE BALL TEAM.

THANKS
JOHN C JONES

Name: Mary Barrett Ptchett
City: Tucson
State: AZ
Date: January 30, 2006

Comments: Having lived in Alexandria/Pineville from 1945 to 1951, practice taught at Bolton High School, completed La. College in 1949 (January), taught at the parochial school, knew the Daspits who owned European Courts.

During this time, my best friend's mother was the manager of that court; my mother managed Willow Glenn Courts, also owned by the Daspits, am quite familiar with the area.

Had my first lobster at the Lobster Thermidor on Jackson, the best po-boy in the whole world at a place on Lee Street as well as an Oyster Basket at another place on Lee. Shopped at Weiss and Goldrings, and Hemingway's Furniture. Worked during the war at Camp Livingston at age 16. Many happy memories of a town I loved.

Thank you for this site. A friend accidentally found it and e-mailed it to me. Many years have passed, but I'll never forget the Red River Bridge, the New Bridge, Red River, the Camellias blooming on the front lawn of Willow Glenn, the time that the Dorseys played at the Night Club near Willow Glenn, Buddy the bus driver who drove the Willow Glenn route for the City; it passed on the hour every hour, then having to catch the Pineville Bus to go to college. What a time game!

Name: Debbie (Charrier) Smith
City: Natchitoches
State: LA
Date: January 28, 2006

Comments: How nice it has been to browse through this site. So many memories come flooding back to me.

I remember how beautiful the old City Hall was when it was decorated for Christmas, and how I loved to go to Walgreens on Murray Street for a hot fudge sundae. The last time I was in Alexandria, I noted that my old Elementary school (Aiken) had been torn down.

Well, hello to all my childhood friends --- Marilyn Chambers

If your out there, please email me.

Name: Bobbie Long Vinson
City: Oxford
State: MS
Date: January 28, 2006

Comments: I'm an Alex native (64-97; Cabrini Hospital; Nachman Elem., Brame Jr., ASH Sr., Homewood Baptist, Emanuel Baptist, Highpoint Dr) and I'm helping a close friend research the 1947 Alexandria Aces. His dad was a catcher for the Aces that year and was probably on the team the year before or a year or two after also. We've only been able to confirm '47.

His name was Robert "Bob" Tranbarger, Jr. He roomed with Fred Bacjewski in Alex and possibly dated a young school teacher named Louise Boudeaux who lived on Compton Ave. Bruce (Bob's son) has a few personal notes his dad left behind from his playing days but no pictures or articles or anything of that nature.

If any of you have memories of the late 40's Aces (we were the Evangeline League Champions in 1947!) that you'd like to share, we'd would love to hear them.

My mom, Carolyn Goodman Long, spent her early childhood years on Herbert St., just across from the park and attended those games with her dad, Jesse Goodman, but we lost her in the late 80's. My dad, Donald W. Long, listened to the games on the radio in Elmer, LA but didn't come to town for them.

It's been fun for me to dig into this, I'd appreciate anything you have to contribute and will gladly share the info I've managed to dig up on the team. We'll be in Alex. on 2/4 for the Krewe of Boogaloo party and will go through the TownTalk articles at the Rapides Parish Library.

It'll be good to get back home.

Name: Janet DeBey-Wells
City: Roy
State: UT
Date: January 25, 2006

Comments: I graduated from Bolton H.S. in 1966. My father was in the Air Force at England AFB.

I am trying to find a few people that I have lost track of and would GREATLY appreciate any help.
Judy Ritchie, Sally Paulhamous, Cheryl Harper, Ronald Leslie King (dob 03/17), Cookie Kasnow..........where have all of you gone???

Name: Martha Rudeloff
City: Beeville
State: Tx
Date: January 24, 2006

Comments: I am a descendent of Pierre Baillio. I wonder if anyone has taken the Baillio name back to France before Pierre came to La.

I have the Catherine Futch book and would love to explore farther back

Name: Melva Morris
City: Palmdale
State: Ca
January 24, 2006

Comments: I was raised in Alexandria. It was a great place to live have a lot of great memories of it.

Please share what you can about the Old Bard Dance. It was opened in the 1950s by Melvin S. Hinkley. It was a great place for families to go and have fun and enjoy the music and dancing. Thank you .

Name: Roz Monaghan
City: Sydney, Australia
State: NSW
Date: January 20, 2006

Comments: I stumbled on this web site quite by chance.  I was particularly intrigued by the Weiss and Goldring Department Store because those two names feature in my family tree on my father's side.

I would love to know something about the founders of this store - where they came from, etc., and if their descendants are still alive and still live in Alexandria.

I think you have created a wonderful web site and you are to be congratulated.

Kind regards, Roz Monaghan

Comments: I really enjoyed reliving some of those memories.

Of course, some of them were before my time, but I remember my dad talking about Herbie K's.

Thank you for this wonderful site.

Name: jennifer miles
City: WASHINGTON
State: PA
Date: January 19, 2006

Comments: MY HUSBAND WAS IN THE AIR FORCE, AND WE WERE STATIONED IN ALEXANDRIA FOR 2 YEARS. OUR DAUGHTER WAS BORN THERE IN 1989. I STILL MISS THE FRIENDLY PEOPLE, AND THE SIGHT AND SMELL OF THE BAYOU!!!!!!

Name: Debra Matthies
City: West Bend
State: Wi
Date: January 17, 2006

Comments: I come back often to your site and just love it!!!

Name: WADE MCCOMBS
City: DERIDDER
State: LA.
Date: January 15, 2006

Comments: ANY OF THE1952 REBELS STILL ALIVE OUT THERE IN COMPUTER LAND? LET ME HEAR FROM YOU. WADE

Name: Diana Woodard
City: Bellflower
State: CA
Date: January 13, 2006

Comments: I was so glad to stumble upon this registry. I was born in Pineville, LA and grew up in Alexandria until I was 12 years old. Then we moved to Los Angeles California. Many people in Pineville-Alexandria knew my father well. His name is Herbert Woodard. I went to Reed Street Elementary School and Jones Street Jr. High for one year.

I visit Alexandria every other year for our family reunion. It has been well over 37 years since I left, but remember my childhood like it was yesterday. I never thought my childhood would turn out to be so memorable. I'm still in contact with one of my dearest friends from Alexandria (Melvia Williams). We lived on Shirland Avenue in Alexandria. So I guess I have stories to share, and it's great just knowing how much others appreciated their early childhood environment and rearing.

Name: Barbara Deckler Manne
City: Ormond Beach
State: Fl
Date: January 10, 2006

Comments: My family moved to Alex. during WWII. My father was a dentist there until his death in the late 70's. I have fond memories of my childhood growing up on the corner of Bush Ave. and Elliot St. Then we moved to the new Charles Park. There were actually cows in our backyard when we moved out to the country as it was back then.

I was a founding alumni of ASH spending my 9th grade at Bolton before moving to the new air conditioned state of the art high school. What great memories I have of old Alex. I miss the old broad and hope to come back before I die and play the old Alexandria Golf and County Club again as an adult.

Name: Cheryl Alexander
City: Tucson
State: AZ
Date: January 8, 2006

Comments: My dad was stationed at England AFB from 1966-1969. I attended Brame Jr. High and Bolton H.S. I remember going with friends to Hopper's drive-in and to the lakes around town. Even though I've lived in Tucson since 1969, I still consider Alexandria home. I spent some of my most impressionable years there and still love it.

Name: Sharon Smith
City: Hendersonville
State: TN
Date: January 5, 2006

Comments: My mother, who was raised in Alex from her birth in 1934 until the late 40's/early 50's when her family moved to Los Angeles, is not internet friendly. (Refuses to get on it) However, I will mention things I see on this site to her. The mention of Ms. Beasley brought, well, I don't know if it was laughter or groaning. I believe my uncle may have struck Ms. Beasley due to some sort of, shall we say, "conflict."

I'm not advocating violence of students towards teachers, but, Ms. Beasley sounds rather infamous.

Name: Roy Bordelon
City: Dallas
State: Texas
Date: January 4, 2006

Comments: I was born in Alexandria in 1965. My grandfather William B.Phillips owned and operated Phillips Sign Company located at 1803 Rapides Avenue. My mother Judy Phillips married my dad, Dewey Bordelon who lived on Upper Third Street. Reading some of the memories that others have placed here reminded me of so many places that I have forgotten as a young boy.

I attended Bolton High School, Rosenthal Elementry and then moved to Deville, La where I then attended Buckeye Elementry and High School. In 1982 I moved to Dallas,Texas where I still reside. I still have family and friends that still live in Alexandria.

I recently went back about a year ago and it has changed so much. The happiest times of my life was living in Alexandria as a young boy. To this day, I sometimes get a familiar scent which for some reason gives me a flash back to Alexandria which I have not thought of in years. If anyone knows any of the Phillips family or any of the Bordelon family, please e-mail with any information . I think it's fun to hear something about a family member from someone who I haven't ever met.

Happy New Year to all who visits this site! Hope to hear from you soon.

Name: Dowell Bushnell
City: Woodstock
State: Ga
Date: January 3, 2006

Comments: It's been 13 years since I retired from ole Channel 5 and am grateful for this site. It was forwarded to my daughter Jill by one of her friends, and I've spent many hours reviving memories and stories from old friends.

I wasn't born there but I spent 40 plus wonderful years there and met so many great people. Any one remember Shock Theatre we aired on Saturday nights..or the live dance in studio on Saturdays? Everyone is correct...Alexandria, and Central Louisiana, was a great place to live and raise a family. A lot of special memories from 1958 till now.

Name: Dan Lemoine
City: GULF SHORES
State: AL
Date: January 2, 2006

Comments: Leslie Lightfoot, I have no way of contacting you but I have an interesting story about your father's welding shop.

Susan Kohara, I will have to look through what pictures I salvaged after hurricane Ivan demolished my house.

Lori Schooler, I may be able to help you with the origin of your mysterious package.

E-mail me at dlemoine@mchsi.com

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